Today we’d like to introduce you to Rell Rugely.
Rell, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started creating content during my junior year of high school. I took on photojournalism and video editing as my elective courses. That was when I first discovered how to properly operate a DSLR camera. I’d only owned point & shoot cameras throughout high school. One of which was ruined, after my mom took it out to dinner without asking me. I woke up to find my camera with the lens stuck out on her dresser the next morning. She’d wasted tea in her purse, completely destroying my beloved camera. I was so upset that I told myself my next camera would be solely purchased by me. This way nobody would have the right to take mine without asking me. I focused on video editing the rest of my high school career and received a few awards for my projects.
Fast forward to college, I’d finally purchased a new camera. Initially, this camera was for vlogging on my YouTube channel, until I realized I could capture some high-quality photos with it. I started charging my friends and family to take their photos for money on the side. It was then that I realized the potential that I had to turn this hobby into a business. I went on to collaborate with my influencer friends, shooting weddings, and graduation photos. I’d become pretty comfortable with my creative eye. I spent my senior year focusing on school, and I ended up putting photography to the side. I didn’t need the extra cash as much since I’d gotten a better job. Today, I’m a recent college graduate, working my way into the media industry. I still work my retail job, but I’ve also landed a gig working for iHeartMedia. I decided to relaunch my photography business after making a huge investment in upgrading my equipment. I felt like it was important to further develop my talents whilst pursuing my passion. I’d like to consider myself somewhat a jack of all trades in regards to digital media. My end goal is to become an anchor in the entertainment industry, however; there is nothing wrong with utilizing my other talents along the way.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The road to “success” hasn’t been smooth. I often ask myself if I should focus on one area, instead of trying to pursue all of my talents. I’ve had some notable moments along the way. The biggest was when in 2015 when I was featured in a national recruitment campaign for H&M. I haven’t topped that moment yet, but having an opportunity as grand as that one confirmed the potential that I’ve always felt I’ve had.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
My photography company isn’t only aimed to capture memorable moments; it is geared to make my clients see the beauty that they possess. I’ve always been told that I have a strong “creative eye” when it comes to capturing content. From snapping a raw photograph to exporting it to my clients post-editing. My creativity and overall consideration of the client’s desires sets me apart from others. I’m not one of those photographers that just want to make a profit. I’ll often stop in the middle of my sessions to show the client what kind of looks we’re capturing. Then, I invite the client to give me honest feedback. When servicing others with digital content, collaboration is just as important as displaying your own artistic style.
What were you like growing up?
I’ve always been described as an outgoing person. I’ve never been shy in front of others. I was that kid that felt like I was supposed to be on Disney Channel along with the stars that I watched. I’ve always been a creative person as well. I preferred to make arts and crafts, rather than playing sports. In middle school, I would spend hours online editing my myspace profile layout. I probably should have stuck to doing that, considering how valuable digital coding is today. Above all, I’ve always pictured myself becoming an entertainer of some sort. In recent years, I’ve learned that it’s okay to be talented in multiple areas and purse them as well. Which is how my photography company came to fruition.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rellrugely.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/rellrugely
- Other: www.youtube.com/rellrugely
Image Credit:
Rae Davis (@raeeography on Instagram) www.raeeography.com
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