Meet Alberto Rodriguez | From office to free roaming.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alberto Rodriguez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alberto, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Taking a risk was the foundation to where I am currently at in life. A risk is a challenge, a chance to test yourself, and once tested, you bring in so much growth. I left my 9 to 5 job as an IT Tech on my 28th Birthday in November 2018. One of the biggest risks I can take being a single father. I had no choice but to continue with the routine and schedule I was in or gather the few starting clients I’ve made in my photography business and take the leap.

I knew it was time to make the move when I found myself using vacation days and PTO to book clients during my working hours. I had saved up just enough to cover for 3-4 months of rent and bills just in case my risky move was unsuccessful.

Here I am now 3.5 years later, loving everyday and searching for new risks that continue to bring me opportunities. I now film for million dollar mansions, yachts, AirBnbs, new development buildings and construction. Meeting new people every single day. Being able to travel whenever I want for pleasure or work. From rushing at 6pm to pick up my daughter from school to now being there as the bell rings for dismissal is a blessing all on its own.

To think I had the choice to either stay or take the risk, I will always take the risk. It’s played a key role in my life and in my career.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art comes from many past skills and trades. I started in 2002 opening desktop computers, breaking them down and putting them together, being the neighborhood IT for friends and family. Around 2006 I started to produce beats, engineer music, had the opportunity to DJ at a few nightclubs in Miami at 16 years old. During those years, I had little to no money and I wanted to do so much to promote myself, so I learned how to design logos, flyers, and basic websites to cover that part. Little did I know I was creating an amazing flow of creativity and consistency in my life. The detail I can get into with all the random projects and services I’ve offered will have me writing a book.

By 18 I bought my first DSLR camera, a Canon T3, and since I was working as an IT for a huge logistics company, I had so many employees in the office and was able to land a few maternity, family, and business shoots. Fast forwarding, I upgraded to a T3i, T6i; Canon 6D, 6D Mark 2 then in 2018 while at my last 9 to 5 job, I saved up enough to buy a Sony A7iii, which I am currently using til this day. I now own 2 cameras, a drone, GoPros, 360 cameras, stabilizers and so much tech I’d never imagine having.

A few lessons I’ve learned along the way are to never give up, even on the toughest days, NEVER GIVE UP. Once you learn to accept your downfalls, you’ll be able to overcome them effortlessly. I had weeks where I had no bookings, where I was hesitating and starting to fill out applications, but I always found a way to talk myself out of it and went out to make connections.

My talent is one thing, but what has kept my clientele constantly growing is my attitude and personality. I make everyone feel welcomed, I let my energy introduce itself for me, I think that’s what sets me apart, the connection being made.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
This is exciting since I am always looking for new places to eat and visit. Since I have the connections and work perks, I would invite them on a 4-6 hour yacht trip and pass by Kikis on The River to give them a nice high-end Miami opening. Would for sure take them to a few spots I love going to eat; Planta Queen in Coconut Grove, Freshco Fish in Kendall, Swan at the Design District and would never pass up the chance of going to local spots in Wynwood and checking out local Latin restaurants like Sergios and Havana Harrys.

I’m an outdoors person, I would have some kayak and paddleboard trips planned, a trip to a few natural springs or national parks in Florida. Even a bike ride in Key Biscayne and a beach visit can cover a whole day of fun.

I’m not much of a clubbing person but for sure would have to bring in that Miami Night Life vibe and check out a few clubs in the area.

Let’s just say, my friend would be going back home with stories and memories.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Many people have been the reason for my success; my daughter, family, friends, and many many unknown/unfamiliar faces. I want to give a shoutout to everyone who has recommended me to others, who has trusted me in capturing their weddings and special moments in life.

I also want to thank Kevin Trudeau, never met him but would love to. I have been listening to his audios ‘Your Wish Is Your Command” for the past 5 years, along with Bob Proctor and “The Strangest Secret”

Also a huge shoutout for all the moments/situations and clients that have made some days difficult, but you learn and grow from it all so it’s never really a bad day when you accept it.

Website: www.theARvisuals.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/iamarvisuals

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/albert-rodriguez

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlbertARvisualsRodriguez

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGCoISuU6tKQ2RLqXLmTFWQ/videos

Image Credits
Sunset Yachts and Miami Luxury Access