Meet Michael Arinze | Photographer

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

Hi Michael, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think about risk as short-term discomfort for long-term comfort. Temporarily stepping out of one’s comfort zone has the potential to open doors to unimaginable opportunities. Being reserved and timid growing up, I was always anxious being in the presence of people with authority or success. Being a photographer who focuses on capturing moments, a job that often requires me to be up close and personal with clientele, I’ve learned over countless interactions how to compose myself in a manner that is non-obtrusive yet close and intimate.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve built a reputation of being able to create campaign-worthy photographs in usually remarkably short amount of time. Working exclusively on a compact camera body in conjunction with a photo transferring app allows me to often shoot, download and upload photos within minutes.

My journey was by no means an overnight success. It took countless hours of just studying the basics of photography techniques, classic art and composition to find my own unique style. During the pandemic, I had no real opportunities to take photos, but when restrictions were lifted, I took every opportunity available to go and capture moments.

Throughout my own personal journey, I learned how to be patient and that the only way to really produce great work is to love what you do. You have to love every bit of the process in order to be functioning at your highest level.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about my story is that, I started without any connections or friends in the industry. If you make it your goal to put out nothing but your best work and remain patient, opportunity will find you.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The best part about Los Angeles is the ample amounts of events, places, and activities that can be experienced on a daily basis. Being a resident of the DTLA area for the last few years, I’ve found a few of my favorite local things to do that don’t require spending hours of time in the notorious Los Angeles traffic.

In regards to eateries, I love breakfast/brunch at Zinc Cafe in the Arts District in Downtown. For dinners, I highly recommend checking out Bestia, kodō and Girl & the Goat for their amazing food and ambiances. Lastly, if you’re just hungry and want a quick affordable bite but amazing flavor, the best spot is by far Ave 26 tacos.

During the day, there’s events happening all over Los Angeles so there’s plenty of things to do. My personal favorites include Everyday People Events, Andre Power Linkups, Black Market Flea, various album releases or really anywhere where there is good music, friendly people and amazing vibes.

I’m not too crazy about the nightlife scene in Los Angeles, so during the nights, so I’ll usually have guests over and host game nights and just enjoy each other’s company.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I take a lot of inspiration from photographers Greg Williams and Henri Cartier-Bresson. Both are masters at capturing moments.

Website: https://www.michaelarinze.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelikennaarinze/

Image Credits
Michael Ikenna Arinze for all photo credits