Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthony Cardoso.
Hi Anthony, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
My creative journey started as a child. I remember enjoying painting, drawing, and reading comic strips. However, I got derailed from these interests at a very young age by teachers stating that these careers weren’t paid well or “realistic”. As life moved forward, I later realized I still had very creative interests such as writing, art, photography, and music. These interests soon became hobbies and then became passions, while in college. As a first-generation Mexican-American, college is seen and often pushed as the “only way” to advance in life (with school and family). This idea can be very misleading for first-generation students, as networking is often more important than merit in a corporate setting.
However, there were a few professors that helped me grow as a person, for which I am very grateful. For example, Mrs. Larissa Pierce showed me a new way to express myself through poetry and speaking from the heart in English Literature. There are many more important aspects to me and my experience, but I am making this a short story about how I got here today. Although, I have sometimes wished I could have learned sooner that it is possible to make a living pursuing your own interest. At this moment, I am happy to be at the beginning of my creative expression. Introspectively, I do not see/ label myself as a photographer or videographer; these labels are not part of my identity nor “personality traits” for me. Photography & Videography are simply two forms of art, of which I have a professional skill set in, very much like the other forms of art I enjoy.
I see myself as someone who is creative and has learned to dedicate time and effort towards doing activities I truly enjoy. I do not limit myself to any art form or space. A special thank you goes to an equally important part of my story, which is my family and friends who supported me and gave me the space to explore myself.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, it is not a smooth road. Yes, of course, there were struggles. Most of the struggles I have experienced are mental and financial. Growing up, like many other children, I looked to adults for answers to who I am or what I can do. The answers I received were things that stuck with me into adulthood; these were limitations and ways of thinking I had to unlearn. For example, in school, you’re taught and, in a way, practice working a full-time job through routine. I think the school system, in general, can sometimes brainwash children into learning to be good at things that they do not like for “good grades & happy parents.” This subtle pattern later turns into adults getting jobs/careers they hate for “good pay, ‘title’, or benefits.” Although good pay and benefits are important, it shouldn’t be a trade-off for a normal amount of happiness in your daily life. Learning to dedicate time and energy to doing something I actually enjoy with no real-life reward (money or recognition), learning to take risks, and believing in myself are some of the lessons I have had to learn along the way.
Additionally, I grew up a first-generation Mexican, which means I saw both my parents work non-stop since my childhood. I can’t remember a time that my dad didn’t work 12-hour shifts every week to make ends meet. And even though I did complete my college degree in Business by working part-time jobs through college, this didn’t secure me a job/career. Furthermore, buying equipment for photography and videography is a big investment, financially. Getting equipment was something I had to save up for and had to take a risk on (still taking a risk on*). In my first year, I started with a 10-year-old camera and learned to make my editing so good that it made up for my lack of a better-quality camera. I am very grateful for the clients that have chosen me this past year and helped me continue this path. Additionally, I would like to thank Karina Guevara from @talesoflovefilms for taking the time to help me practice my craft in film when I did not have any equipment of my own.
Any big plans?
Personally and professionally, I like to share things once they are complete or done. Check out my socials @be. illusions if you would like to see what’s next.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://beautifulillusions.mypixieset.com/contact/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/be.illusions/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgVxXUhq23Q
