My Inspiration
Ever since I was a kid, I loved art. Whether that be drawing, attempting illustrations or pressing the big blue button on my big bird toy camera. Being the first born, my father was obsessed with taking pictures of me in our small apartment in San Jose, CA. He took so many pictures of me that we now have tons of photo albums collecting dust somewhere in my parents house. Growing up, I would imitate my father in every aspect, I wanted to be just like him.
He is hardworking, intelligent, strong, and full of life. I would go to his room and put on his work shoes while wearing my suit, and pretend to be the sharp businessman he is. When we played sports together, he always challenged me and no matter how hard I tried, I could never beat him.
My father always pushed me to be a better student and build an opportunity for myself, which is the main reason he moved from Nicaragua to the United States. After living in San Jose, we moved to Downey, CA. Everybody who knows me knows that I call the bay area my hometown, although Downey and my family’s guidance have made me who I am today. My father has taught me to cherish every moment in life, whether that be birthdays, holidays, academic achievements, yearly camping trips and even heartbreaks.
My love for photography and videos came from the moments my mother and father would photograph and record my childhood memories on VHS (which sound ancient at this point). I always loved the form of art that was involved in capturing, rewinding and reliving past moments.
Five years ago I purchased my first DSLR camera, a Canon T2i. As soon as I got it out of the box and started taking videos, it took me back to the memories I had of the 90s where my mom would carry this huge VHS camcorder all the time, to capture all of our great memories.
While attending Azusa Pacific University as a filmmaker, I was hired to shoot my first wedding. I remember being so scared I could shit my pants. I had no idea how to approach the event. After realizing that it was just my nerves and that filmmaking and storytelling are my passion beyond my expectations. I have spent countless hours and cups of coffee filming and editing a simple two-minute video.
I am constantly studying professional’s work to learn new techniques and get inspired, but nothing inspires me more than my family and the simple moments in life that are captured. As a filmmaker, my goal in life is not to be filthy rich off of one successful movie but to be a constant motivation to others. I want to be the voice of the unheard and motivate others to try new things without worrying about failure. Just like my father has taught me since I was born.
Happy Father's Day and thank you for being my biggest inspiration in life. I love you.
