Today we’d like to introduce you to Matthew Chavez-Quiros.
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
The incredible journey of my photography and videography passion traces back to my junior year in high school. I initially chose an elective course to secure some easy credits, but it quickly evolved into an all-consuming love. It was my teacher, the amazing Ms. Hawkins, who saw the spark in me and encouraged me to pursue it further. That Christmas, I invested in my first camera, a Canon Rebel T6, and the world suddenly became my canvas. I photographed everything and everyone, from the beauty of plants to my beloved dogs and even the enchanting moon. As my skills and ambitions grew, I realized the need to upgrade to meet my ever-rising standards. Upgrading to a Canon 80D was a pivotal moment, and it transformed my life. I started capturing moments at my local church, mastering the art of low-light photography. Then, in February 2020, fate smiled upon me when I had the opportunity to shoot at a game featuring the iconic Julian Newman, a prominent name in the sports world. This experience marked the beginning of my thrilling journey into sports photography, and I owe a massive shoutout to my friend Jorge for leading me to this life-changing opportunity.
From then on, I began capturing Julian’s journey and connecting with basketball trainers in Orlando, steadily building my reputation in the area. However, I knew my camera was holding me back from freezing those lightning-fast moments in sports. Thankfully, my friend Gibby extended a helping hand, loaning me the funds I needed to upgrade to a Sony camera. With this new equipment, I ventured into the world of big events, photographing NFL players like Jeff Badet and Trent Sherfield. I even had the surreal privilege of standing inside the hallowed Madison Square Garden, photographing unforgettable moments in the world of boxing.
From shooting concerts featuring stars like Alexis y Fido to capturing the adrenaline of NFL games, my journey has been extraordinary. And through it all, I remain eternally grateful, knowing that at 21 years old, every success and opportunity has been a divine gift from the Lord above. My passion for photography has not only become a source of immense joy but also a powerful testament to the endless possibilities life can offer when you follow your heart. Currently, I’m at the helm of Prodigi Visuals LLC, and it’s an exhilarating journey! The experience has been incredible as I’ve delved deep into the intricate world of business operations. My ultimate aspiration? To witness Prodigi Visuals LLC evolve into a self-sustaining, powerhouse multimedia company shortly! The future looks exceptionally promising, and I’m genuinely stoked about the path ahead.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey in photography and videography, while incredibly rewarding, has certainly had its share of challenges and obstacles. It has been far from a smooth road, and some of the struggles I encountered initially, affording quality camera equipment and gear, was a significant challenge, especially as a high school student/college student. Upgrading my equipment to meet the demands of professional photography and videography was a constant financial struggle, which was eased with the help of friends and gigs. I was able to fulfill my goals for them. Developing my photography and videography skills took a lot of time and effort. Learning to master different camera settings, lighting techniques, and post-processing software was a continuous learning curve. It required countless hours of practice and dedication.
Also, building a name for myself in the competitive field of photography and videography took work. It took time and perseverance to connect with influential figures and establish my credibility, especially when covering high-profile events and working with notable personalities. Juggling my passion for photography with other commitments, such as school/studying, was a constant challenge. Finding the time to pursue my photography career while maintaining my responsibilities was a delicate balance that required careful planning and time management. As a creative every artist faces creative challenges; there were times when I struggled with creative blocks or felt uninspired. It’s a common obstacle in art, and overcoming it requires patience and the willingness to explore new perspectives and techniques. Despite these obstacles, each challenge has been an opportunity for growth and learning. Overcoming them has not only made me a better photographer and videographer but has also reinforced my passion for this art form. It’s a reminder that the path to success often involves overcoming hurdles, and it’s the determination to push through these challenges that truly defines the journey.
Thanks for sharing that. So, you could tell us a bit more about your work.
I specialize in photography and videography, focusing on sports photography, event coverage, and business branding. My journey in this field began very early at 16, during my junior year in high school, when I stumbled upon this passion through an elective course. I’m known for my versatility in capturing a wide range of subjects, from the aesthetically pleasing colors of my candids to the dynamic and fast-paced world of sports. What sets me apart from others is not only my passion and dedication but also the unwavering support I’ve received from friends and mentors. The journey has been punctuated with challenges, from financial hurdles to building a reputation in a competitive field. However, these obstacles have only fueled my determination to excel. With the assistance of a dear friend, I upgraded to a Sony camera, which opened doors to shooting big events and capturing iconic moments in sports and entertainment. I take immense pride in the opportunities and experiences I’ve had at only 21 years old, and I attribute my success to God, who has accompanied me on this journey. My work is a testament to the limitless possibilities that unfold when you follow your heart and embrace your passions with dedication and enthusiasm.
What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned along my journey in photography and videography is the power of persistence and the significance of following one’s passion. It’s not just about taking pictures or videos; it’s about embracing a deep love for the art and an unwavering commitment to honing one’s skills. Through the challenges, financial struggles, and creative blocks I’ve encountered, I’ve understood that success is not handed to you; it’s earned through hard work and perseverance. The journey has taught me that setbacks and obstacles are a natural part of any creative pursuit, and they shouldn’t deter you from your path. Instead, they should be seen as opportunities for growth and improvement.
Moreover, I’ve learned the value of staying open to opportunities and the importance of networking and building relationships in the field. It was through these connections that I was able to shoot high-profile events and collaborate with prominent individuals. In summary, my journey has reinforced that success results from dedication, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of one’s passion. It’s not just about the destination; it’s about the lessons learned and the personal growth that comes with the journey itself.
Pricing:
- $175 for an Hour Shoot (1 Outfit)
- $275 Studio Shoot 1hr 30mins (1-2 Outfits)
- $250 Sport Mixtape (Min or Less)
Contact Info:
- Website: prodigimediavisuals.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prodigi_media/
Image Credits
Prodigi Media ©
