Name: Nicky Cruz
Company: RPG (Reality Photography Group)
Location: Bronx, NY
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Tell us about yourself.Most people call me Mr. RPG. I am a freelance photographer and cinematographer with a passion for the beauty of cars. I'm a Lincoln tech honors graduate as a certified auto technician. So not only do I take pictures of cars I can also fix and mod them. That鈥檚 what sets us tuner photographers apart from the rest. We know what we are taking pictures of; the year, make, model, rarity or uniqueness of every car, part or modification. I love what I do and take pride in my work and never slack or cut corners in anything I do. I鈥檓 very reliable, trustworthy, and dedicated.
Where are you from?
I鈥檓 from the Bronx, where I was born and raised.
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Did you go to school for photography or was it something you picked up yourself?
I'm currently in school part-time working on my (MFA) Master of Fine Arts in photography.
How did you get into photography?
It all started after graduating from Lincoln Tech on my quest to be a top car tuner. While I was going to school I was customizing and modifying my 2007 TL Type S. By the time I was graduating I was pretty much done. After that I started hitting up all the car shows, car meets, street races etc. Then I got discouraged because not all the top photographers were taking pics of my car at the top shows. Then It hit me, after that I saved for my first camera and started taking my own pics of my car and flooded the internet with them. I was shocked about the impact/popularity my photos made online, So I went back to school, made my own website, and kept with doing private shoots with other cars covering car shows, street races etc. I gained my respect not only online but also on the street as a photographer/car tuner and enthusiast. And now people call me a pro photographer. I love it! But unfortunately i had to pay 28k in school tuition to become an auto technician to later find my calling as a photographer and cinematographer. But, i have no regrets, because I found a profession that i love to do, and not everybody can say that.
How long have you been a photographer for?
5 years
How would you describe your style?
I describe my style as raw & uncut, a journey into my head that allows people to see my view of things from my third eye.
What equipment do you use?
Canon dslr's:
EOS 5D Mark III
Canon EOS 550D
What is your favourite location to shoot pictures?
Besides a studio or indoor set for a car, I love to shoot in the city at night with all the pretty bright lights and all the different things going on.
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Are you a Mac or PC user?
I use both. I edit my photos and handle all my online stuff on my pc and edit my videos on the mac.
What was your most memorable assignment?
Covering "hella flush" in Hawaii back in 2011.
What would you say to other enthusiast photographers out there who aspire to become a photographer?
Keep it up until you reach your goal. We have been blessed with the internet so the possibilities are endless.
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