Meet Ramone Coles | Photographer, Director, & Film Producer

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

Hi Ramone, what’s the most difficult decision you’ve ever had to make?
I can honestly say my most difficult decision was to let go of past actions and activities that I knew was blocking my blessings. I’ve always loved business and being successful with it. I loved the attention and material things it brought. When the obstacles came, it really made me appreciate the things I was neglecting. Living fast and obtaining “things” fast isn’t always the easy way… everyone loves the riches, but few are able to deal with what comes with it. Gratefully and by the grace of God I’ve been able to recognize my flaws and change my situation. Things may not come as easy for me now, but the level of accomplishment and fulfillment that I get from completing a film or photography project is unmatched! My most difficult decision ended up being my best and most rewarding one as well.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m honestly just like any other artist or creative, there’s not much I can say that makes me so different. We’re all just trying to express ourselves and share the beauty and love we have in us! What I can say that is unique about me is the fact that I AM ME, and nobody could ever do it better. My creativity and artistic abilities are definitely heaven sent. I honestly stumbled into my career and passions. As a child I would always draw and paint. I was great at sports and very athletic even though I’ve never played any regulated games. I was academically advanced too, but always just not motivated by any of it. Not until middle school when I started selling CDs and color printed Dragonball Z pictures is when I realized that I loved doing business. That continued to high school, then after dropping out of college is when I decided to start something of my own. I was 19 years old when I got my first EIN, even though I didn’t fully know or understand what I was getting myself into lol. In 2014 is when I realized that I had a love and passion for film and photography. I started by getting students in college for film and photography majors. I created my team with them to complete my first projects! Not until 2018 is when I actually put the camera and editing into my own hands. I fell in love with the creative process all over again. Since then it’s been the only thing that has successfully stuck with me. I’ve tried many other ventures, and ran into some legal issues that almost ended my career and kill my motivation to pursue anything anymore. Losing close family members such as my grandmother and most recently my younger brother, Devon Simmons, my photography and film life has truly been a blessing and savior for me and I’m grateful to still be able to pursue it and be successful with it! My grandmother would always say, “Only The Strong Survive”, I’ve lived by that and will always.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
A week in Charleston, SC… What isn’t there to do!? Seriously, from high-end shopping to locally owned boutiques. The history that this city has is truly unmatched. With being one of the founding locations of this country, we’re one of few with a strong and thriving culture. Our cuisine is comfort food, soul food is what everyone calls it, but to us it’s just a good ol home cooked meal. To be honest, there aren’t many good spots here that you’ll be disappointed in. From the seafood to the soul food, we’re competing with the best in the world! And I could never forget the fun, lol. Activities are endless with our geological position. The weather can be a little unpredictable at times, but honestly it’s never too much of anything. I tend to tell ppl you can get all four seasons in one week in Charleston, lol. We’re right on the coast so beach life has always been accessible at just about any time of your convenience. Waterways give more access to a relaxing day on a boat. The nightlife is still growing, but we have a nice southern vibe for anyone who wants to have a little fun. From the urban to the punk community, we have a range of any vibe you’re looking for!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I really want to recognize God first and foremost, without God none of this would be possible. I know it sounds cliche, but really, the past few years have been such a rollercoaster for my family and me that I can’t believe I’m still sane, lol. My grandmother would be a person that I would have to recognize the most though. Coming from humble backgrounds of drugs, drama, and foster care, my grandmother adopted me and I believe saved me from living a destructive life. I’m grateful she was able to adopt me at a young age. Her passing was one of many hardships I’ve been facing, but also one of my main sources of motivation and determination!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramonecoles?igsh=cG45czhqZjRkajBk

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ramone.coles.9?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Image Credits
Kevin Small Keon “Thottys World”