R A Y
At 23, I find myself in a world colored by the hues of being a Color-blind African American and Filipino, juggling the roles of a Creative Film Director, Photographer, and Editor based in NYS. The spark of my dreams ignited around 2012-2013, watching my older comrades skillfully edit videos. When a laptop finally landed in my hands, I dedicated every day to crafting video game edits. Ever since then I never stopped doing what I love. This journey isn't just about mastering my craft; it's a navigation through the tumultuous waters of personal challenges. Originating from a pint-sized town with scant opportunities to become who you aspire to be isn't entirely frustrating; it's strangely inspiring. Especially since, aside from Ray, no one else in my town is chasing this particular dream. I've clung to a mantra that echoes in my soul: "Stick to the plan." | "Rise" | "Keep moving forward."
My foray into photography began in late 2019, my high school graduation year. Armed with my first camera, I ventured out, capturing everything from random people to plants, food, and cars. No, I didn't start in AUTO mode; I dove straight into MANUAL. That decision turned me into a lens geek, fostering a deep understanding of which lens suits me best and what visually resonates. As video game editing lost its luster after my first or second year of photography, I stumbled upon old friends from the editing community creating music videos with impressive cameras. In April 2022, faced with the choice of a new car or camera equipment for music videos, I chose the camera equipment, steadfastly following my dreams.
Building connections, I reached out to music artists in NYC, shooting a few music videos with positive responses. However, from October to December 2022, I took a step back due to my location. Yet, that didn't derail me; I persisted, continuing to move forward. Come January 2023, I dove back in, working ten times harder. I reconnected with an old friend from the video game editing community, now a brother to me. Over time, I met new like-minded individuals on Instagram, Discord, across the country, and even the globe. Now, I have a band of brothers who are always there to support, just as I am for them.
My goals aren't the conventional pursuit of wealth and fame. My mission is to unearth my purpose and be remembered for my life's achievements, extending beyond my work. I aim to leave a message ensuring our past is eternally remembered, for it's in those memories that we truly live on.
- Keep moving forward.