Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan Watanabe
Hi Ryan, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised in San Diego, but moved away to Boston for college to study music which is funny enough how I got into taking photos and making videos.
I had a basic camera I brought with me just to take videos of band practices or travels but since all of my friends were musicians, they all needed headshots and wanted photos of their concerts taken. So I ended up filling that void, mostly for free or some food money, but I was able to develop a decent portfolio.
Then one night I sent that portfolio to over 50 bands via cold email and cold facebook messenger to ask to take me on the 2016 Vans Warped Tour (a former nationwide music festival for alternative and rock acts). Thankfully, one kind band named Oceans Ate Alaska did. From that one tour I was able to network and make friends with band members and managers to build the foundation for my whole career.
After I graduate college in 2017, I just started touring relentlessly, being gone for over half the year usually. I got to work with a bunch of amazing artists and would grow to become a director and editor for music video and advertising. Since 2020, I’ve mostly removed myself from the road and doing remote editing, directing and promotional content. Most recently I’ve been working freelance for San Diego’s exciting new MLS team, San Diego FC.
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 describe it a lot like a surfing, sometimes the waves are great and just you have to ride them out but often times things are slow and you have to be okay in that stillness. More specifically, the irregularities of freelance and the circumstances of being constantly away from home are never easy. But it’s incredibly fun and rewarding.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve mostly specialized in music related content, it’s just how things have shaken out. But I really love crafting talent and telling people’s stories at the core of it. I think what sets me apart is as an editor, I really think no matter how great you plan something or how you shoot it, editing is where good content becomes great. I spend a lot of time sound designing and crafting to tell a story through the edit.
What does success mean to you?
Success to me, is doing something that fulfills you, contributes to the better of whatever world you’re working in and being able to enjoy it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ryanvwatanabe.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/ryanvwatanabe
Image Credits
Band in image 1/2: Chase Atlantic
Band in image 3: The Band Camino
