We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ricardo Villanueva Jr Jr. Check out our conversation below.
Ricardo , it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Three years ago, I made the decision to grow up — for real. Life forced me to look in the mirror, and I chose to show up for myself, and more importantly, for others. Since then, every day has been about rebuilding, refocusing, and reconnecting — with purpose.
These days, my mornings usually start early. I work closely with individuals battling addiction, helping them find the strength to take their next step. It’s not always easy, but it’s real, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Watching someone go from rock bottom to reclaiming their life? That’s something I’ll never take for granted.
Outside of that, I run my own photobooth business, capturing special events, milestones, and the kind of moments people want to keep forever. Whether it’s a wedding, a birthday, or a quiet family moment, I get to frame joy for a living — and that’s a gift.
But life isn’t just about work. I’m in a relationship that teaches me daily about patience, presence, and partnership. We’re growing together — not perfectly, but intentionally. I also prioritize time with my family and friends. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or just a quick check-in, those connections ground me.
Some days are heavier than others. But with this new perspective on life, I carry gratitude into everything I do. I’m still learning, still building, and still showing up — for myself and for the people who matter.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Outside of that, I run a business called My Best Side, a photo booth company for special events. It’s about more than photos — it’s about celebrating people, laughter, connection. The name hits home for me, because I’m still discovering what my best side is — and I think we all are, in some way. Every event I work reminds me of the beauty in people being exactly who they are, even for a split second in front of a lens.
I’m in a relationship that I nurture every day, because real love takes effort, communication, and intention. I also make time for my family and my friends — they keep me grounded and remind me where I came from.
The truth is, I’m still becoming. I’m still showing up, still learning, still doing the work — and I’m proud of that. I don’t have it all figured out, but I show up with heart, and that’s something I never plan to stop doing.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
My aunt Lisa! I had always looked up to her, (my dad’s youngest sister). She has always been the coolest to me. She grew up singing, and expressing her self publicly. If I could sing, I’d be her, but I can’t so I pose for the camera.
When did you last change your mind about something important?
Lately, though, I found myself lost again — caught up in slaving away for a job that left me feeling empty. I was exhausted, burned out, and disconnected from who I really am. One day, in tears, I broke. And in that moment, I made a decision: to trust God, to let go of control, and to follow where He leads. I don’t know exactly where the path ends, but I know I’m not walking it alone anymore.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
If you asked my closest friends to describe me, they’d probably say I’m stubborn — but also full of love. They root for me harder than anyone. They’ve seen the fight in me, the heart in me, and the way I keep pushing forward no matter what.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
ABSOLUTELY
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mybestsidephotobooth.com
- Instagram: mbsphotobooth
- Facebook: mbsphotobooth
Image Credits
Lisa Marie Sigala
Joshua Jordan
Stephanie Martinez
