Today we’d like to introduce you to Ro
Hi Ro, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My interest in photography started in my early teen years. I spent a lot of time on the internet taking in the grungy aesthetic-laden photos that filled my feeds. At some point, I wanted to try it for myself and started taking a lot of filter-heavy “aesthetic” selfies and nature pics à la Pinterest/Tumblr. I loved it! There was something really attractive about capturing the world around me and molding it to fit a specific mood. I joined my high school’s photography club where dove into learning more about photography principles. During this time I was gifted my first DSLR and diverged from my roots and started experimenting with more psychedelic editing styles. It was all about making things that struck a chord between weird and beautiful.
Photography took a backseat from 2020-2023. Quarantine (alongside other endeavors) understandably made it difficult to capture the subjects I was interested in. Even though I wasn’t actively taking pictures, it was during that time that I got especially interested in concert photography, and found myself enamored with being able to capture fleeting, raw moments. After this period, my interest was reignited as I began exploring the various DIY scenes of Atlanta. I asked myself how I could merge my new love of the scene with my old passion for photography. Today, I’m still navigating how to bring what I learned all those years ago and apply it to the type of art I want to make today, all while trying to stay afloat in a constantly changing social media landscape.
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?
It hasn’t always been the easiest. The biggest struggles I’ve had are with self-doubt. Although most of my work is done once I press the shutter button, there has always been a whole mental battle I’ve had to work through with showing others my work. Even if I’m over the moon with how a project or image turns out, actually putting it out there has always been a bit paralyzing.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m starting to specialize in concert photography. But what I’m most proud of is my editing style. I definitely have a ways to go, but I’ve begun to hone in on how to elevate an image without getting rid of the core of what the image represents. I think what makes my art special is the balance of rawness, polish, and artistry. It gives my images a unique swag that echoes my influences.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Everyone that’s every touched my life deserves credit, but to name a few: Andee Avalon (@lowpolymodel_ on Instagram)–my personal cheerleader, Jeri Mize of Visions of Mize, LLC–an excellent mentor whose words always echo in my head whenever I’m feeling unsure about what my next steps should be, and always my family–they’ve always given me the space to foster my creative side.
Pricing:
- Standard -$110
- Contact for name your price slots
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.materialisticpunk.com/photography
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/materialisticpunk/
Image Credits
Ro
