Meet Rashad Amir | Photographer & Media Producer

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

Hi Rashad, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
My creative journey began when I was seven, with an old VHS camcorder my parents used to capture family vacations, little league games, and get-togethers. One day, I picked it up myself, curious to see what I could capture. I’d record my dog, cartoons, or just talk to the camera like it was a friend. That camcorder is still with me, along with tapes from my early childhood, and it’s become like a family heirloom. Though I didn’t realize it then, that’s where my love for storytelling began.

Around that time, I also fell in love with movies. My uncle and I would spend hours watching every film he had, from comedies to action-thrillers, even the ones I probably wasn’t old enough to see. Movies like Friday, Ultraviolet, and The Original Kings of Comedy shaped how I saw storytelling. They made me think about characters, actions, emotions, and how all these parts fit together. It was my first real introduction to art with a purpose.

Photography quickly became my way of capturing life. My family kept photo albums filled with faces and memories, generations of relatives who were gone but somehow still present in those pictures. Seeing those images made me feel part of something bigger. When I got my first phone at ten, I used it to take photos of everything, from everyday moments to pranks on my sister. Looking through the lens, I learned that I could choose what story to tell and shape how it looked to others. It was powerful and personal.

For a long time, I believed my future was in track and field or basketball. But in high school, I found myself drawn to the film department, captivated by the creative work happening there. I’d often hang around, asking questions and learning from the film students. One day, I had the opportunity to work as a production assistant on a CSUN student film while in high school. That experience was a turning point. Witnessing the collaboration, energy, and passion in filmmaking convinced me that a creative path was what I needed to pursue. This realization eventually led me to earn my degree in Cinema & Television Arts from California State University, Northridge (CSUN).

Now, my photography is all about telling real stories. I want each image to connect the viewer, the subject, and myself in a way that feels authentic and complete. It’s a challenging balance to capture, but it keeps me motivated and engaged. My background, my family, and my personal experiences are all woven into my work. Growing up in a single-parent household with its own set of struggles taught me resilience and the value of mindset. I’ve learned to turn obstacles into growth, and that perspective is part of everything I create.

Through my work, I aim to inspire people to pause, look deeper, and find meaning in the bigger picture. Each photo I create is layered with color, texture, emotion, and story. I want my images to do more than look good. I want them to provoke thought. My creative goal is to build a legacy that will outlast me by capturing timeless moments and creating art that reflects who I am and what I value. For me, success is not about fame or money. It is about staying in love with the craft and creating with purpose, resilience, and heart.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
For me, art is all about storytelling, whether it’s through Ramir Photography or The Casual. What sets my work apart is the purpose I put behind every project. I aim to create work that resonates on a deeper level, inspiring people to think and feel.

Photography started as a simple way to capture family moments, but over time, it evolved into a deeper passion for documenting real stories. With Ramir Photography, I focus on portraits and branding, always aiming to bring a storytelling approach to each shot. Through The Casual YouTube, which has grown from 0 subscribers in 2015 to nearly 300,000 today, I’m thrilled to assist in producing content that shares authentic perspectives on Japanese culture, fashion, and everyday life.

Getting here hasn’t been easy. Building my own brand has been a journey of facing challenges and seeing each as an opportunity to grow. I’ve learned that success is not just about overcoming obstacles, it’s about creating a legacy rooted in honesty and purpose.

In the end, my work isn’t just about images or videos. It’s about offering something real and meaningful to others. That’s the core of my brand and my story.

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 can’t say a week, but for perfect day in LA, I’d take whoever’s with me to some of my favorite spots. We’d start with a small bite from Porto’s Bakery & Cafe, then head to The Getty Center for a mix of art and incredible views. From there, we’d grab tacos from a local vendor and unwind with a picnic at the beach. And to finish off the day, we’d catch a movie at 4DX in North Hollywood and, if we’re still hungry, stop by Five Guys for bacon cheeseburgers and Cajun fries. Though, with LA traffic, we probably won’t get to everything.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I have to mention God because I put him at the center of everything I do. I also want to give a shoutout to the people who’ve been there from the start, helping shape who I am today.

First, my fiancée Vanessa, my high-school sweetheart, who’s been through thick and thin with me. We’ve grown up together and her support is what keeps me steady and motivated every step of the way.

I also want to recognize my sister, Amber, who’s been like a second mom to me. She’s always there when I need her, encouraging me, supporting me, and I truly wouldn’t be where I am without her.

And of course, my brother Reggie, who’s been both a mentor and a creative partner. Working with him on our YouTube channel, The Casual, has expanded my creativity and taught me the value of dedication. His support and influence have been a big part of my journey.

To all of you, I love you. You’re my foundation, my inspiration, and my strength, and I wouldn’t be who I am without you.

Website: https://www.ramirphotography.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amir.rashad/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rashadamir/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@THECASUALco & https://www.youtube.com/@RashadAmirYT

Image Credits
1. Hip-Hop Artist – Dom Kennedy
2. Kylie Mar – Topo Chico x VandyThePink x Complex
3. Jay Washington – Netflix is a Joke Fest
4. Candid Shot of Howie Mandel x Darryl Brown (Owner of Mid West Kids Clothing)
5. Portrait – Michelle
6. BTS Photography – @Cine Dept.
7. Street Photography
8. Street Photography