Meet Houston Ray

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Houston Ray. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Houston, appreciate you sitting with us today. Maybe we can start with a topic that we care deeply about because it’s something we’ve found really sets folks apart and can make all the difference in whether someone reaches their goals. Self discipline seems to have an outsized impact on how someone’s life plays out and so we’d love to hear about how you developed yours?

Over the past few years, I’ve realized that I’m at my best when I’m backed into a corner.. when I feel as though, if there’s no room left behind me to retreat to, the only direction I can fixate on and move towards is forward. You can’t just wait for the right moments of inspiration or motivation to hit you.. you have to manifest those moments on your own. No one and nothing else will be able to create those for you consistently. I’ve had to teach myself that it’s better to be consistent than it is to be perfect, and that’s the mentality that I utilize to push myself forward daily.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m a lifestyle and apparel photographer who’s most passionate about helping local and online businesses drive sales and increase brand awareness via creative photo and video assets. Although I enjoy high fashion and studio work, I’m the most excited when I’m about to create my authentic narratives and tell stories about the brand and its products candidly and authentically.

In a world of highlight reels, I love showcasing the in-between and intimate moments that feel the most authentic and relatable to us.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Consistency, empathy, and vision.

You have to be willing to show up regularly. On some days, that’s easy to do. On other days, it can feel impossible. You need to make sure that you craft a vision for yourself that has actionable steps that you can move towards regularly. Break down your long-term goals into smaller, digestible actions that you can work towards regularly and you’ll achieve so much more in the long run.

Have empathy and understanding for clients and creatives, even ones that you feel have worldviews and approaches vastly different from your own. Even if you don’t agree with someone’s perspective, taking the time to at least understand where they’re coming from makes a huge difference in how you begin to view both yourself and others around you. Most people are just trying to find their way in the world, and, as a business owner and creative, I have a responsibility to try to understand the needs of those around me and help them manifest their goals as much as I can.

How would you describe your ideal client?

As much as I enjoy a lot of my bigger, one-off clients, my long-term goal is to work with the same rotation of brands on a consistent monthly/quarterly basis so that we can each provide each other with the most amount of value possible.. they get consistent, quality photo and video assets that they can use to generate income and form a cohesive brand without worrying about where their next marketing assets are going to come from, and in return, I know that I get a consistent form of income, as well as a long-term relationship with a client that I get to help and grow alongside.

My ideal client provides me with trust, good communication, and an sizeable budget to help them highlight their products in a way that’s both professional and authentic.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.houstonray.com
• Instagram: @houstonaaronray
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/houstonray/