Meet RIVER CHAD

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

Hi RIVER CHAD, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I used to work full-time as a marketing associate, but I realized that I wasn’t fully satisfied with my career path. My true passion lies in capturing special moments and telling stories through images. This passion inspired me to start my own business as a freelance photographer. I sought the creative freedom to explore different styles and genres of photography, an opportunity that I couldn’t fully pursue while working for others.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a professional photographer with a background in documentary and travel photography, I strive to create images that tell compelling stories and evoke emotions. What sets my work apart is my unique ability to blend artistic vision with the specific needs of my clients, ensuring that every photograph not only captures a moment but also communicates a deeper narrative. My attention to detail, use of both artificial and natural light, utilization of both film and digital cameras, and dedication to creating authentic and engaging visuals distinguish my work from others in the industry.

Traveling to over 50 countries and territories across five continents has been the adventure of a lifetime and one of my most proud of, all thanks to my passion for photography. Each journey has been a thrilling quest to capture the world’s diverse beauty through my lens. Along the way, my photographs have found their way into various media platforms, both in print and online, showcasing the universal allure and quality of my art. This recognition is immensely gratifying, serving as a powerful affirmation of the dedication and passion I pour into every shot. It’s a wonderful reminder that hard work and creativity can transcend boundaries, connecting us all through the visual stories we share.

The journey to where I am today has been anything but easy. Starting out, I faced numerous challenges, from not having my own professional camera to competing in a saturated market. One pivotal moment was when my Aunt Fae Peralta, who is not related to me by blood but has been a tremendous supporter, bought me my first professional camera. This act of kindness allowed me to pursue my passion more seriously and helped jumpstart my career.

Overcoming challenges required resilience, continuous learning, and unwavering dedication. I invested time in honing my craft, studying the work of photographers I admired, and constantly seeking feedback to improve. Networking with industry professionals and building relationships with clients also played a crucial role in my growth.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way include the importance of persistence, the value of genuine connections, and the necessity of staying true to one’s vision. Each setback was an opportunity to learn and grow, and each success was a stepping stone to the next level.

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that my photography is more than just a profession; it’s a passion that drives me to capture the beauty and essence of life in every frame. My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of support, and the impact of believing in one’s dreams.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend visits Los Angeles for a week, I’d take them to enjoy a mix of art, nature, and culinary delights. We’d start with a visit to the Getty Center and Getty Villa for incredible art and architecture, followed by scenic hikes at Point Dume and beach days at Santa Monica State Beach. We’d explore Venice Beach and its canals, and dive into LA’s downtown culture with a visit to the Museum Row.

Dining highlights would include hitting all the Taco Trucks we’ll be seeing, I think Socal has the best Mexican Cuisine in America. Evenings would be spent enjoying the sunset and delicious dinners at my local favorites like Toca Madera and Silverlake Ramen, ensuring a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are several people to whom I want to dedicate this recognition: my aunts and my friends who became family. However, I want to give a special shoutout to my dear Aunt Fae Peralta. When I was starting my photography career and didn’t have my own professional camera, she took a chance on me and bought one so I could pursue my passion. Even though we are not related by blood, she saw my potential and invested in me without expecting anything in return.

Website: https://WWW.RIVERCHAD.COM

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

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

Image Credits
River Chad Photography