Meet Michelle Nunez | Videographer/Content Creator

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

Hi Michelle, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I grew up in a household where showing your feelings was pretty much seen as a sign of weakness, immature. My dad, wasn’t around much, and when he was, kindness wasn’t his strong suit. But, he loved movies, action, sci-fi, drama, you name it. The times he’d make us sit down and watch a movie together were special. That was when it felt okay to let our guards down, to actually feel something. It was the closest thing to family time, where emotions were allowed, at least that’s how it felt to me. As I grew older, I struggled with articulating my feelings verbally. Editing became my outlet, a way to express my moods and thoughts. It was like keeping a visual diary. There’s something about movies, if they could make someone as tough as my dad soften up and show a different side, even if its just for an hour, that’s magic. That’s powerful, almost like therapy. I guess what drove me into this creative path was this hope to keep telling stories, to connect with people on that human level, exploring emotions. If a movie can make my dad feel, imagine what we can do for others. It’s about that passion for storytelling, wanting to make someone “feel” through a screen, touching on things they might’ve buried deep down. That’s the magic I want to chase in the work I do.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a full-time freelancer and operate under Hot Reelz, my small business. My journey into the world of freelance content creation has been anything but conventional. Specializing in crafting content packages for gyms, brands, and athletes, my passion lies in storytelling and capturing the raw emotions, the losses, comebacks, and victories of athletes through my lens. There’s something euphoric about encapsulating those triumphant moments, making them relive their glory as if it’s happening all over again. This, to me, is the ultimate reward, something far beyond monetary value. My path to where I am today has been a long and winding road, filled with self-taught skills, internships, and a constant battle against imposter syndrome. From my early days of experimenting with Filmora to mastering Adobe Premiere Pro through YouTube tutorials, my journey has been one of relentless self-education and practice. I went to school for Video Production but the real learning happened on the ground, through internships that ranged from exciting ones to downright questionable.
Memorable stints at PADNET.TV and OUTFEST, along with my first professional gig at Substance, were pivotal. It was at Substance where I met Margie, who would become a memorable mentor. The most dream-come-true moment was landing a role with FloSports, especially the FloGrappling crew. It was like my worlds of jiu-jitsu and storytelling collided in the best way possible, opening up opportunities with top sports orgs and legendary athletes.
My journey has been filled with ups and downs. Battling that imposter syndrome and figuring out the creative maze was tough but it only made me sharper and more grounded. This world’s full of different talents and vibes, reminding me we all start from scratch. I’ve learned to listen to that inner critic, not to shut me down but to push me further. Going back to why I started—my deep dive into storytelling and the kick I get from moving people with my edits—helps me stay on track. For anyone feeling lost, remember your ‘why.’ It’s your north star, guiding you through the mess to your place in the spotlight. Hot Reelz is my shoutout to the world about the power of stories. Through my work, I’m here to stir up emotions, spark some change, and tell the tales that gotta be told. My message? Don’t lose sight of your ‘why.’ It’s what keeps you going, through thick and thin, leading you right where you need to be.

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 man, get ready to eat your heart out! If my bestie’s in town for a week, we’re starting with breakfast at Met Her At A Bar. Trust me, the huevos rancheros are actually good: crispy tortilla, perfect beans, and their Thai-style fried chicken and waffle? Unreal. Plus, the place has this adorable backstory of the owners meeting at a bar.

Next up, drinks at Bar Flores. Their mezcal margaritas and hibiscus gimlets are top-notch, and the vibe on their patio? Chef’s kiss. Plus, it’s woman owned, which is pretty cool.

Then, for a caffeine fix, it’s off to Pam’s Coffy by Quentin Tarantino – the butterscotch coffee drip is a must try.

Pizza time means Tarantino’s in Pasadena. No relation to Quentin, but their Grandma Tony’s Special pizza is legendary(add your fave toppins). And before they head home, we’re grabbing sopes and quesadillas from Primo’s Tacos on first and breed. Trust me, it’s a must.

So yeah, it’s gonna be a week of amazing eats, basically, and just the best time ever.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First up, Maricela Viramontes. Known her for 10 years through jiu jitsu. She’s seen me juggle a 9-5 bank job while dreaming about editing and filmmaking. Always pushed me to chase those dreams. Without her, I wouldn’t have taken the leap and be where I’m at today. And then there’s Margie. We’ve worked together, and she’s taught me tons about editing and storytelling. Still in touch, still learning from her. Check her out at @thnkdifferent. Super talented and humble. Both of them have been huge in my journey. Couldn’t have done it without their encouragement and belief in me. Can’t forget Carla Quiroga @caarlaq, insanely gifted photographer and a true believer in betting on yourself. Her advice transformed my path; ever since I took that bet, things have only gone up. These three have been my rock.

Website: https://www.hotreelz.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/babyassassinn/?hl=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HotReelzz

Other: https://www.instagram.com/hotreelzz/?hl=en

Image Credits
Carla Quiroga, Bryon Woods, Shawna Rodgers, Quintin Fernandez, Clayton Jones