We were lucky to catch up with Arturo Carrillo recently and have shared our conversation below.

Arturo, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

This project holds the power that redefine my life’s path. Back in June 2022, when my Instagram account was hacked, it seemed like a minor hiccup, but its impact was monumental. Suddenly, my creative journey came to an abrupt halt for about half a year. It was during this pause that I came to a profound realization about the toll social media was taking on both my mental well-being and my ability to create authentically.

Losing the joy of creation, I decided to view the hack as an unexpected blessing—a catalyst for much-needed self-reflection. Little did I know then that this setback would lead me to discover my true self and introduce me to extraordinary individuals who would leave an indelible mark on my life. At the time, I couldn’t foresee the profound impact these chance encounters would have on my future. It’s funny how life’s blessings often disguise themselves in unexpected forms, isn’t it?

Fast forward to today, and this project marks my triumphant return to the world of photography after that pivotal break. The photoshoot, set against the backdrop of a motel at night, symbolizes a journey of solitude and self-discovery—of being adrift until finding one’s way back home. Holding that match in my hand wasn’t just a pose; it embodied the flicker of determination within me, ready to ignite a blaze and leave behind the shadows of the past that once held me back.

This shoot wasn’t just a return to form; it was the inception of something greater. It became the cornerstone of my dream partnership with Nanlite, paving the way for an extraordinary vision to unite a community of creatives who shared a passion for pushing boundaries in low-light photography. What began as an idea sparked by a photoshoot blossomed into the vibrant reality of the Art Factory—a family bound not just by creativity, but by a shared desire to craft something truly extraordinary.

Arturo, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My journey into the world of photography and now videography began almost 10 years ago, simply as a hobby. It wasn’t until about five years ago that I decided to truly hone my skills and take my passion more seriously. Initially, I walked this path alone, and when I made the decision to shift gears, it turned out to be more challenging than I had anticipated. Perhaps my background in the Marine Corps instilled in me a refusal to give up, despite facing numerous setbacks and hearing countless “no’s” from potential clients, models, and brands.

Instead of throwing in the towel, I doubled down on improving my craft. I immersed myself in studying photography techniques, observing trends, and learning how to better serve others with my creative passion. Through this journey, I came to understand the importance of mastering the basics, rather than simply relying on what I thought worked.

As I continued to learn and refine my skills, I discovered my niche in low-light photography. Embracing this specialty presented its own set of challenges, particularly in mastering continuous lighting. Yet, fueled by my passion, I found the learning curve to be exhilarating rather than daunting. This journey gave birth to my unique style, setting me on a path to share my art with the world.

I explored various avenues to showcase my talent, from capturing weddings to creating captivating brand imagery and heartfelt graduation portraits. Ultimately, I found my calling in collaborating with brands that resonated with my distinct approach to photography. This decision transformed my life, leading me to where I am today.

Through my venture, the Art Factory was born and I’ve been able to not only express my creativity but also to serve others in meaningful ways. Hosting meet-ups, workshops, and immersive events has allowed me to connect with my community on a deeper level. One of the greatest joys I experience is witnessing individuals leave our events with a newfound appreciation for our clients’ products, often leading to purchases and lasting relationships.

The Art Factory isn’t just a collective of creatives pushing the boundaries of low-light photography; it’s evolved into a trusted creative agency, partnering with leading companies across various industries. Together with my incredible team, we’ve made all of this possible, fostering a space where creativity thrives, and meaningful connections are forged. Together, we’re not just telling stories; we’re shaping them.

Any advice for managing a team?

Navigating the delicate art of building trust within your team isn’t just a matter of words; it’s a heartfelt journey that I’ve come to cherish, drawing on my experiences in the Marine Corps. See, it’s about more than just running a business; it’s about fostering a sense of kinship, of family, among those you work with. After my five years of service, I realized that treating my team not just as colleagues, but as cherished members of a family, was paramount.

But here’s the thing: nurturing that familial bond doesn’t mean turning a blind eye or letting standards slide. It’s about holding each other accountable, both personally and professionally. It means going beyond the confines of daily tasks and truly checking in with one another, ensuring that everyone is not only meeting the demands of the job but also striving toward their own aspirations. And when someone falls short of their goals, I’ve learned that it’s our duty, not just as leaders, but as members of this family, to rally around them and provide support, even if it means momentarily setting aside business objectives.

Sure, it might seem like a setback initially, but witnessing the triumphs of my team, watching them achieve their personal milestones, fills me with a sense of pride and fuels a collective energy that propels us forward. Because when your family succeeds, when they flourish and grow, it creates a ripple effect that inevitably leads to success for all. It’s a symbiotic relationship, where every win for them is a win for me, and vice versa.

So, yes, building trust within your team may be easier said than done, but when you approach it with the warmth and commitment of family, the rewards are immeasurable. Trust me on this—when your family thrives, so will you.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Absolutely, let’s maintain the essence of your original response while making it more relatable and heartwarming:

“Let’s set the record straight from the get-go: this journey isn’t a cakewalk. It’s more like adding another job to your plate, demanding your time and energy. Those moments of virality, they’re like fireworks—spectacular, but short-lived. They don’t define your worth or the depth of your impact.

But let’s talk about the real deal. When the hype dies down and self-doubt creeps in, it’s easy to question your abilities.

But here’s the silver lining: it doesn’t have to be a constant cycle of highs and lows. It starts with knowing your purpose. Do you want to educate, entertain, or share insights? These are the cornerstones of social media engagement, and you’re not bound to just one. Think of them as different chapters in your creative journey, each waiting for you to explore.

For me, it all began with entertainment. Creating content that made people pause their endless scrolling and say, ‘Whoa, how did they do that?’ It meant thinking outside the box, crafting scenes that captivated without relying on fancy editing software. Take, for instance, our LED door in the middle of nowhere, a project that not only caught attention but also landed us a top-of-the-line camera.

Entertainment naturally transitions into education. As your audience marvels at your creations, they’ll naturally want to learn from you. And just like that, you become the guide, sharing your expertise one lesson at a time.

And then there’s the review phase, a territory I’m still exploring. It’s about sharing honest experiences, bridging the gap between product and consumer. Enter the Art Factory, our hub where creators come together to put tools to the test.

So, where do you begin? One step at a time. Treat each post as a love letter to your craft, regardless of who’s watching. Because in this vast digital landscape, authenticity is your greatest asset.

To put it into perspective, a decade ago, I started with a Nikon D3200. Today, I’m partnering with Nikon, testing their latest gear in the very conditions I once dreamed of. Low-light photography. It’s proof that with passion, persistence, and a sprinkle of patience, dreams do come true.”

Contact Info:

• Website: www.theartfty.com
• Instagram: _rtworow
• Youtube: @theartfty
• Other: Art Factory Instagram: @theartfty

Image Credits
Shots by: Juan Lara (@smvvthreality) and Arturo Carrillo (@_rtworow)