We had the good fortune of connecting with Desiree Ramos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Desiree, why did you pursue a creative career?
I grew interest in photography when I was a teenager. Over the years I was exposed to how photography can become a profession and within those years I became more confident in my craft and was ready to really try out in this industry.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think I am most proud of still continuously learning. There is always room for improvement in everything that we do and I am happy that learning new tricks and ideas still excites me. Photography has always been an interest of mine for maybe 10 years and it wasn’t until 4 years ago did I decide that I did want to pursue a career in this field. I feel like I am still in the process in getting where I want to be but know that I am going in the right direction. I wouldn’t say being in this industry is easy but it is definitely very rewarding if you are interested in the art. Moments of limbo happen , creative blockages can also be unmotivating, and on the business side sometimes you encounter negative client experiences. I think being a woman in a field oversaturated with men has empowered me in ways I did not expect. I cannot speak for all women but for me personally I think that confidence really stalled me from pursuing sooner and I want it to be known that starting is the most difficult part, once that is overcome you’ll really be able to handle any challenges you may face.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oh my goodness where to begin! I personally love taking people to art shows that are happening that week. I follow CurateLa which is an app shows any exhibit debuts coming up. If not you can’t go wrong with the Getty Center or the Huntington Library. For a quick morning drink I would take them to Maru Coffee, they have the best matcha! If we were having a more relaxed time to hang out during brunch hour I would bring them to have tea and food at Steep in Chinatown. As far as food goes it really depends on what my friend likes. We can have hand rolls at Kazu Nori, Korean food at Louders, or go to a fusion restaurant like Causita. This list can go on, I have many places to recommend.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
When I read the book “shoe dog” by Phil Knight it really put into perspective that in order to succeed in what you want to do you need to believe in yourself first. I never made it known to others that I wanted to pursue photography as more than a hobby. When I decided to make that leap I reached out to models and brands online offering shoots. The feedback I received was nice and it did push me to continue. Eventually I did inform my friends and family in what I was pursuing and their support has been very heartwarming.

Website: http://www.ddesi.xyz/

Instagram: ddesi

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.