We recently connected with Paul Orama Cruz and have shared our conversation below.
Paul , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
In the fall of 2015, my wife and I were expecting our first child together and I was a few months away from losing my job. I was working in the world of politics for almost ten years and a realization hit me hard—I wasn’t doing something that truly made me happy. So, I decided to make a straightforward list. On the left, I jotted down my interests; on the right, my perceived skills. I quickly realized the two did not match up. I decided that day to make a change and start exploring my real interests. Photography and video were the outliers, the things that truly resonated with me, so I started there.
With my iPhone, I started snapping photos and experimenting with video. It started as an experiment, and unexpectedly, it evolved into something more. I transitioned to a proper camera, a Sony a6000, and I found myself filming everything, from quirky personal projects to interviewing friends and creating short bio videos. Soon, I stumbled into my first paid job.
The turning point came when I realized I was not only enjoying this creative outlet but getting paid for it. It wasn’t just a distraction; it was a potential career. This realization prompted me to delve deeper into filmmaking and lighting. Today, as I write and shoot my own films, working on projects that once seemed like distant dreams, I reflect on how those uncertain moments in 2015 led me down a path I never expected, proving that sometimes the best opportunities come from unexpected places.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
After almost a decade long career in government and politics, I decided to explore what my passions are which led me to follow my true passion in filmmaking. Over the past three years as a freelance cinematographer, my journey in the world of filmmaking has been an exhilarating ride filled with diverse projects and collaborations with talented individuals. Over a few short years, I’ve had the privilege of working on a variety of productions, including short films, commercials, and music videos. These experiences have not only honed my technical skills but have also allowed me to connect with and learn from some truly amazing people in the industry.
One aspect that sets my work apart is my involvement in the entire filmmaking process. Beyond cinematography, I take pride in wearing multiple hats as I write, direct, produce and shoot my own films. This hands-on approach not only allows me creative control but also a deeper understanding of storytelling and visual aesthetics. Recently, the culmination of these efforts resulted in the broadcast of my latest short film on national television, marking a significant milestone in my career.
Passionate about sharing knowledge and experiences, I have developed a keen interest in educating others about the art of filmmaking, particularly the nuances of lighting. I believe in the power of mentorship and aim to inspire aspiring filmmakers to pursue their passions, regardless of their current circumstances. In the coming year, my focus will shift towards amplifying this educational aspect of my journey. I plan to share more insights into my own story, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and creative expression in the face of challenges.
Looking ahead, I am excited about the prospect of working on more personal projects. These endeavors will not only serve as a platform for self-expression but also allow me to delve into storytelling that resonates deeply with my own experiences. As I embark on this new chapter, my commitment remains unwavering—to contribute to the world of filmmaking, both as a creator and a mentor, fostering a community of passionate individuals who dare to dream and create.
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?
My journey to becoming a filmmaker has been marked by resilience, a commitment to serving and being of use to others, and a knack for creative problem-solving.
Throughout the challenges and uncertainties, I’ve discovered that resilience is not just a trait but a guiding principle. I faced many challenges in both my personal life and on set, and what is that one has to persevere and adapt, understanding that each obstacle is an opportunity for growth.
Equally as important, having a genuine desire to be serve and be of use to others has been key in helping me along this journey. Collaborative efforts are intrinsic to the art of filmmaking, and by offering support and sharing knowledge, I’ve forged meaningful connections with fellow creatives. This collaborative spirit has not only enriched my own understanding of the craft but has also created a network of support that extends beyond professional boundaries.
Problem-solving is at the heart of filmmaking, and my ability to approach challenges with a creative mindset has been instrumental in shaping my journey. Whether it’s finding innovative solutions on set or navigating the intricacies of storytelling, I’ve embraced each problem as an opportunity to experiment and evolve. This problem-solving approach has not only enhanced the quality of my work but has also fostered a dynamic and adaptive mindset crucial for success in this filmmaking world.
My advice for anyone wanting to develop or improve on these, is to always be open and stay positive.
View challenges as opportunities for growth. Understand that setbacks are an inherent part of any creative endeavor, and rather than being discouraged, see them as chances to learn and evolve.
Be kind and helpful to others. In your early days, don’t view anything as beneath you. Use any and every opportunity to serve and be helpful. Not only will you grown and learn the skills necessary to become a better filmmaker, you will develop long lasting relationships with other people who will be there for you as well.
Stay adaptable and open-minded to change. Embrace experimentation and be willing to pivot when necessary.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
One of the most impactful things my parents did for me was allowing me to fail. This taught me that failure isn’t the end of the road but a way to learn and grow. This mindset has been crucial in helping me navigate the challenges of being a filmmaker. By allowing me to mess up and figure things out, my parents helped me develop the resilience needed to keep going despite setbacks.
Failing is important because it teaches practical lessons that success often can’t. Each time I faced a setback, whether in my personal life or in filmmaking, I learned something valuable. Seeing failure as a temporary obstacle has given me the mindset to approach challenges with a determination to learn and improve, knowing that setbacks are just part of the journey.
Without the early lessons in resilience and the understanding that failure is not the end, I might have been discouraged by the difficulties of a career in film. Instead, I’ve developed the ability to face setbacks, learn from them, and come out stronger, seeing each failure as a necessary part of the journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.paulorama.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pauljorama/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-j-orama-cruz-b13115252
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PaulJayOrama
Image Credits
Daniela Andujo
