Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephen Cruz.
Hi Stephen, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Stephen Cruz, I’m a 31-year-old content creator, Born in Boston, MA, with blood from Puerto Rico. Creating content since 16 has led me to earn an associate degree in Graphic design. I have created logos and identities for many brands while traveling to different countries, capturing memories for clients. My photographs and designs have been published on billboards in; Times Square, New York, Spain, Puerto Rico & Dominican Republic and featured in newspapers and magazines, including Primera Hora and Rolling Stone. Everything started as a dream when I was about 13 years old; I always knew I wanted to live off my art. In 2005 I first started creating and producing music. During a summer program, I was introduced to “photoshop,” still creating music. I never enjoyed depending on anyone, so I started creating my artwork for myself. Fast forward to 2011, I lost my best friend due to street violence, which changed how I see life. I decided to no longer continue creating music but focus more on the “designing” aspect. That is when my older brother “Pedro Cruz” introduced me to photography. Once I realized I could mix design and photography, it changed my life. My life became all about creating designs and photographing everything around my life. I have worked freelance ever since, working with much-known music artists and brands.
In 2018 along with childhood friends, I also created a clothing brand, “Sonarez.” SONAREZ’s goal is to inspire others to live their dreams by creating a brand and lifestyle for those without limits. The name SONAREZ comes from a combination of two languages: Spanish and Italian. The words “SONAR” & “SOGNARE” both mean “To Dream.” Our dream was to create a unique word that would represent our vision but also a word that would have that unique style that we also aim to bring to our designs.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I believe nothing in life is smooth. There will always be bumps in the road, but those are necessary to reach new levels. Along the way, there were many struggles. Some of the struggles along the way included no one believing in what I was making, many lonely nights, and sacrifices of studying my craft instead of going out with friends and family—working two jobs until my dream paid off. There were many struggles, but I wouldn’t change it for anything.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Currently, I specialize in creating content for music artists and brands. My main focus is social media creating pictures, videos, and designs for different marking campaigns. I’m mostly known for working with music artists and traveling with them to create content for their brands. I’m most proud of being able to say I live my dreams. I aspire to inspire others every day.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting?
You will only believe in yourself once you believe in yourself. Consistency! Consistency! Stay consistent! Don’t be shy and network with everyone. Treat everyone with love and respect. You always need to find out who will hold the key to the door you’re trying to unlock in the future. Work, Work, Work. Discipline is everything! How bad do you want it?
Contact Info:
- Website: www.iamstephencruz.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Stephencruz/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IamStephenCruz1/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCi9M5k6F6E31YoylLlK8B6Q
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@stephencruzzz
