We were lucky to catch up with Milton Rivera recently and have shared our conversation below.
Milton, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
Creativity is a flame that burns within each of us, a spark of inspiration waiting to be ignited. It is a force that drives us to explore new ideas, to push the boundaries of what is possible, and to express ourselves in unique and meaningful ways. But like any flame, creativity requires fuel to keep burning bright. So how I keep my creativity alive, I try to nourish it with passion, curiosity, and a willingness to take risks. If I find myself feeling burnt out or unmotivated I try to surround myself with inspiration, whether it be through art, music, literature, or the natural world around me. You must embrace the unknown, and be willing to experiment and make mistakes along the way. It’s a process of discovery and growth that unfolds over time. So if I feel like I’m not able to create sometimes it’s best to just be patient, be persistent, and most importantly, be true to yourself and your vision.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As a freelance photographer for High Five Flicks, my passion for photography is driven by the desire to capture and share moments of beauty, emotion, and inspiration. Photography allows me to tell stories through images, to convey the essence of a person, place, or event in a way that words cannot.
I believe that photography has the power to connect people, to bridge cultural divides, and to inspire positive change in the world. So I started High Five Flicks. Since, starting 3 years ago, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse range of clients and capture a wide variety of subjects, from intimate portraits to sweeping landscapes.
What sets me apart as a photographer is my ability to blend technical skill with a creative vision, to approach each project with an open mind and a willingness to experiment and push boundaries. Whether I am shooting a wedding, a corporate event, or a personal project, my goal is always to capture images that are authentic, compelling, and meaningful.
In short, I am a freelance photographer because I love the art of photography and the power it has to inspire and connect people. It is a privilege to be able to pursue this passion as a career, and I am grateful for every opportunity to create and share my work with others.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
In my opinion, the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that are most impactful in the journey of a photographer are:
1. Technical proficiency: Having a strong foundation in the technical aspects of photography, such as understanding exposure, composition, and lighting, is crucial for producing high-quality images. It allows photographers to have greater control over their creative vision and to execute their ideas with precision.
Advice for those early in their journey: Take the time to learn the basics of photography, whether through formal education, online tutorials, or practice. Experiment with different types of equipment and settings to develop a solid understanding of how they affect the final image.
2. Creativity and vision: Photography is both an art and a science, and the best photographers are those who can balance technical proficiency with a strong creative vision. A unique perspective or style can set a photographer apart from the rest and make their work more memorable and impactful.
Advice for those early in their journey: Explore different genres of photography and find what inspires you. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new techniques or try unconventional approaches. Develop your own style and vision, and strive to create images that are not only technically proficient but also emotionally compelling.
3. Business acumen: While creativity and technical proficiency are essential for producing great images, photographers must also have a solid understanding of the business side of the industry. This includes marketing, networking, contracts, and financial management.
Advice for those early in their journey: Take the time to develop your business skills and build a strong professional network. Research industry standards and best practices, and be prepared to negotiate contracts and pricing. Consider working with a mentor or joining a professional organization to gain insights and support.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am always looking to create with as many different creatives as I possible can.
Never do I stop being a student and from each project I learn from other creatives !
So if you want to work and are in the Central Florida area you can contact me on Instagram @ HighFiveFlicks
Or by email : [email protected]
Contact Info:
- Instagram: HTTPS://www.instagram.com/highfiveflicks
- Facebook: HTTPS://www.Facebook.com/HighFiveFlicks
Image Credits
Thankful for all my models and clients!
