Meet Michaelangelo Ramos | Cinematographer/Photographer

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

Hi Michaelangelo, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
You don’t have choice , at least I don’t. I guess for me I have no other option. I am putting all my blood sweat and tears into making my dreams a reality. To be there for my daughters whenever they need me for whatever reason. Until you have kids and watch them grow up day by day you could never understand how precious time is. Unfortunately while working a 9-5 I wasted a lot of time missing them grow up. I made a promise to my daughters to always be there. I intend to keep that promise and the only way I know how is to become successful whether it is as a photographer/cinematographer or something else. Regardless I don’t have an option to give up because I will not break that promise.

I can’t tell you what is and what isn’t important in your life. At the end of the day we all should look at whats really important in our lives, what matters most. Only then can you determine whether or not you are ready to give up or to keep fighting. Whats more important going to the bar every weekend? or you hustling and grinding for a year straight making your dreams come true. Even if it takes 2,3,4 maybe even 5 years wouldn’t it be all worth it if you could have the life of your dreams. Be honest with yourself are you satisfied with your life enough to live the same forever?

What should our readers know about your business?
As a cinematographer/photographer there is definitely nothing special about me that stands out. There are hundreds of other people out there who provide this service and are absolutely great at it. For me I don’t see my self as the best in my industry by any means. Where I stand out is not in my business but my work ethics. Although I may not be the best I am consistent with delivering high quality work. What I refer to quality work in my industry is clean and clear images , good quality audio, good color, meeting deadlines and more importantly happy clients. Although I am not the best I am constantly learning and leveling up. Hence the the name Elevayted and my brand statement “above average”. I started my journey unknowingly in 2013 so that’s close to 1o years of experience. In those 10 years I have not had 1 client that I was not able to bring their vision to life.

I started out working for free of course to build of my portfolio, I went from working a 9-5 stuck in an Amazon warehouse to being flown to Spain for a cinematography job. There has definitely been bumps in the road but giving up isn’t an option. None the less I am still here doing what I love and I have recently acquired a studio space in the world famous Downtown Los Angeles. If you would have told me I would be the owner of my own film studio in a build in Los Angeles, I probably would have laughed at you.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned. there’s always someone out there working just as hard or harder to be where you are. Once you decide you want to become a business owner or whatever it is in life. There are no off days.

As for my story, my story is still being written. I could sit here and type up my origin story but that would take countless paragraphs to read. Instead I would much rather meet you in person and have great conversation and see how I could help you if you were looking for guidance or inspiration.

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?
I would take them out to mountains. Away from society, media, expectations, negativity, trends etc. Just spend the days hiking looking at all the beautiful things nature provides for us. Taking photos of the milky way during the night. As for drinks whatever they may please but for me personally probably water or some good old Arizona ice teas. Definitely love me some red meat so steaks and tacos are for sure on the menu. For anyone who hasn’t been camping in the true wilderness I highly suggest it, there is nothing like disconnecting from the digital world and society.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My parents will always deserve all the credit for my success. I know that’s probably the cliche answer but my parents defeated all odds for me to be here having this conversation right now. There is honestly too much to be said about these two very special individuals. Not only have they been great parents they are great human beings. My mother is always the first to ask how she can help. Even as a complete stranger my mom will always find a way to help you. Even its just lending an ear because sometimes that’s all people need, just someone to listen to them. My father has always maintained respect for himself and others. Even in the face of ignorance and disrespect he has taught me to be the smarter person in the situation. Not smarter in the sense of a bigger ego, play the long game not the short one. I have never seen my dad give up once on something he has started. Something that was annoying to hear as a kid but I cherish as an adult ” don’t do shit half ass, if you are going to do it do it right.” Both my parents are the reason I am where I am today. Looking back now it hurts me knowing there where times as a younger kid I disrespected my parents for no reason at all other than being a dumb kid. Thats why it is so important for me to make something of my life. To not waste all the effort, love and support that was put into giving me this opportunity in life. I proudly say I love my parents and they are my greatest inspirations in life and are constant motivation for me to keep fighting to make my dreams a reality for me and my daughters.

Website: www.elevayted.co

Instagram: @_elevayted_

Linkedin: michaelangelo ramos

Facebook: elevayted films

Youtube: elevayted films