Raul Arias, the photographer gets contentment from gratifying clients with his art. The sheer fact that now we all have the drone to take aerial photos of our surroundings that we normally cannot see, is gold to a photographer like him. When there is a mixture of weather and scenery, it can really create a depth to a landscape shot that everyone can appreciate. This is exactly what Raul Arias captures when out shooting. Have a look and let us know your thoughts. Today we are featuring Raul Arias, photographer and videographer.
Describe briefly what you envision while you are at a shoot. I always try to get a shot from a perspective that most people are not used to, whether it’s by drone or just a different angle.
Where are you from? and where are you going ? Born in Panama, raised in Miami and living in Jacksonville. I enjoy traveling the world and capturing its essence. Thailand, Bali and Mexico were my plans this year, but then had to postpone for the time being.
How did you become a photographer? When I was in the Navy, I had photography training for intelligence, since then I found photography fascinating. However, I left the camera behind for years until about 2019 is when I decided to get back into it. I chose to focus on not only photography but videography as well. My passion is aerial photography as well as action photography.
Describe your ideal photo session. Because I like to shoot landscape and nature, my ideal session would be somewhat cloudy skies or right around golden hour when the sun is not as harsh. If the sky is completely empty with no clouds, then the picture could come out bland. As a matter of fact, once there is the element of clouds in the mix your picture will look so much more epic.
What’s your favorite gear? The Mavis Air 2 is best for drone purposes and when it comes to action shots, I use the Sony A6400 or my GoPro. For the most part, if I’ll be doing any type of underwater videography/photography then I will take the GoPro. Not only because it being very minimal but also of all the accessories associated with it.
You are on a private jet and you can go to one place in the world. Where to? This is a tough one but more than likely somewhere tropical with a good mix of city life to capture both elements. With that being said, I’d consider traveling to Hawaii, or going completely off the grid like the Maldives Islands.
Define Success in your own words. The ability to give your clients a sense of satisfaction and have them return for more. Once the client gives you repeat business you know your product is good and makes a difference in peoples lives.
What is the next project ? I am planning a mini tour of most of the Florida Springs to video-graph. All while working on growing our restaurants and adding multiple locations.
Name 3 elements of a great picture (video). Subject is important, whether it is a person or landscape. The mood; are we doing something bright and fun? or dark and serious? The lighting and visuals reflect more when recording. Rather than having plain backgrounds, lighting will always make the difference along with the audio. I concentrate on content planning when creating videos. You have to plan out what your shots will look like and the order so that you’re not having to retake shots. It is a way to avoid getting to the editing studio and realizing you missed something crucial.
What has been your biggest obstacle during this pandemic ? One obstacle is gaining access to places and getting used to capturing moments with people wearing masks. We try to shoot around these obstacles but they somehow manage to sneak in. We’ve had to wait for some of the other shots and production since some places have been shutdown or now have limited hours. Raul Arias a wearer of many hats.
What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos? Like anything, it takes time to perfect your skill and it does not matter how expensive the camera is. Rather than focus on getting the best gear right away, work with what you’ve got and learn the fundamentals first. The best camera in the market is the one you’ve got at the moment, go out and shoot!
Anyone ever had you star struck? Why? I have the opportunity to work with many athletes and the first time I got to meet one and work with one on a daily basis, I felt like a kid again! Years later, I still get to meet new athletes year-round. The excitement never fades.
When I like to listen to ( Your Choice ) I am usually doing this: If it is early in the day and I am either editing or brainstorming ideas for a next production, then my Alexa will be playing the Calvin Harris station. If its late at night and I am at the desk editing, you will hear a little jazz to Michael Buble to Louis Armstrong. Im all over the place.
Favorite Artist / Song / DJ to listen to right about now ? The weekend (After Hours album) is on the top of my list right now.
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