Today we’d like to introduce you to Amaris Gamez.
Hi Amaris, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Yes, of course! The first time I ever touched a camera was when I was 10, making stop-motion videos of my Barbie dolls and teaching my invisible viewers how to make chocolate milk. At the age of 13, I began to teach myself how to edit using a variety of different editing tools. I saw this as a hobby, not particularly a career. Despite my shift in career interests, I found solace in creating digital work for more than just some hobby. I struggled with my identity and undiagnosed disorders all throughout my middle school and high school career. At the time, I wasn’t aware that being neurodivergent was a thing. Theater was helpful but it didn’t change the fact that I was still a weird black girl, trying to reclaim her “blackness” and sense of purpose. I soon began to curate sitcom vlogs of my friends at school. I considered myself a keen observer, admiring how my friends communicated with each other. I came to realize that making videos provided a way for me to express myself without having to speak directly. So I started my portfolio by shooting the football players at my school.
For college, I enrolled at the Savannah College of Art & Design to major into Film and Television. It didn’t last long due to the overwhelming debt, but the networking was invaluable. I made friends with some incredible creatives who reignited my passion and helped me realize my sense of purpose. After leaving SCAD, I delved into event photography and videography, shooting at various underground shows in Atlanta. People appreciated the uniqueness of my work, leading to further networking opportunities. Today, I am known as a multidisciplinary artist, curating music videos, promotional work, experimental photography and mixed media for different clientele. It amazes me how effective creative expression can be and I’m grateful that I found my sense of purpose through an environment that was made for me.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I would be lying if I said things have been smooth. My struggles started when I had to leave college early, and I had no clue how I was supposed to prosper from there. I thought school would be my ticket to success. However, I soon realized that school wasn’t my only option to attain my aspirations. My gifts gave me just the right amount of confidence to network and expand my audience through social media. I was only able to achieve this by venturing out to different creative events and doing free work for people. Now, I get paid for what I do, and it just took the confidence I had in myself and my work.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in multimedia development with a proud skill to create visually immersive work. I’m currently focused on music video techniques that can be useful into filmmaking.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Opposed to my creative side, I’m actually super into the business side of professions. I’ve developed a certain level of confidence and am now able to network with a wide range of different people. I just don’t see myself being in one career field.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amarisgamez/
