Meet Myke De Rama

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

Myke, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.

I discovered my purpose during my college years at CSUDH while pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Management. I’ve always had a passion for cinema and storytelling, so I enrolled in photography and film classes to expand my understanding of visual storytelling. That’s when I learned about framing, editing, sound design, story structure, and all the elements that go into creating powerful films and photos.

Three years after graduating, I launched my photography and videography business, Dame x Dawn Studios, named after my son, Dame, and daughter, Dawn. Initially, I just wanted to create a small business and be my own boss—but as I started working with clients, I saw firsthand the emotional impact my work had on people. Seeing clients share their photos and videos online with joy, pride, and gratitude made me realize that this was more than a business—it was a calling. That’s what fueled my decision to pursue this career full-time and pour my heart into it every day.

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

Hi! My name is Myke De Rama aka “Myke Truth” and I am the Owner, Photographer, and Videographer of Dame x Dawn Studios in Long Beach, CA. I was born and raised in Long Beach, CA where I grew up heavily influenced by LA culture. I graduated from CSUDH with a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Business Concentration in Sports, Entertainment, and Hospitality in 2019. During my early college years, I was pursuing music and sound engineering but later discovered my passion for filmmaking and photography while taking courses to sharpen my knowledge and skills. Fast forward to Fall of 2021, I finally decided to shift my career path and started a small business called Mad Livin Studios LLC working from a small studio home office in Long Beach, CA. By February 4th, 2024, I officially re-branded the small business company name to Dame x Dawn Studios where I continue to focus on storytelling and capturing unforgettable moments through the lens for family, friends, and new clients I come across for years to come.

My photography, videography, and event coordinating team at Dame x Dawn Studios are professional, passionate, and amazing creatives who love storytelling, capturing visuals, and highlighting the unique love stories and timeless moments for others whether it’s weddings, corporate events, birthday milestones, and other special events.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

The top 3 qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge I believe one should possess or aim to pursue is having the patience, resilience, and faith that things will work out for the best. Regardless of the circumstances that I had to face whether it was finding a new full-time job to fund my small business dream or overcoming obstacles in my way— I continued to practice those 3 key qualities to be successful in my life.

My biggest advice for anyone starting off their journey especially for beginners is to just start—and stay consistent. You don’t need the most expensive gear or a perfect setup to begin but just to understand and know how to master the basics. As a photographer and videographer, I’m still learning new skills and new gear that’s helping me to grow as an artist. Focus on learning your camera, practicing different styles of photography, and getting comfortable with light, composition, and storytelling. Focus and learn from other photographers who specialize and resonate with your style on Instagram, YouTube, and other social media platforms to help you grow your visual portfolio work and practice, practice, practice!

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?

To avoid feeling overwhelmed or burnout, I prioritize balance and structure. I schedule out one midweek day and every Sunday as personal and family time—no events, no editing, just rest and preparation. Having dedicated recovery days keeps me grounded and prevents me from burning out or exhausted. It’s a non-negotiable part of my week that gives me time to reset physically and mentally, especially while juggling that dad life, entrepreneurship, and being a creative artist.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

@damexdawnstudios

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