Daily Inspiration: Meet Carlos Coleman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carlos Coleman. 

Hi Carlos, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Well growing up I was always that one guy who was always taking pictures and making silly videos, it was always something about capturing a moment and making it last forever that really intrigued me! I never really took it as a sign to take it serious it was just something I found deep interest in. Later down the line, my dad ended up picking up a photography class which really piqued my interest, he was always picking up new cameras and different equipment that oftentimes I would sneak and play with! It wasn’t until I quit my job and moved to Vegas in late of 2018 when I realized I was in love with it, being able to document once-in-a-lifetime moments made me even more wanderlust and hungry to create. I spent time traveling all of the west coast doing predominantly nature photography for my own enjoyment. Soon after, I ended up moving back to Michigan to take on photography professionally where in April of 2019 I shot my first concert for opener Cheeze Weez and headliner DaBaby, and from then on, I’ve shot for huge industry hip-hip names like Nas, Mozzy, Cordae, Rick Ross and so many others! 

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?
Well, photography is pretty pricey so one of my biggest hurdles was being able to afford gear! I also feel like a huge obstacle I had was myself, I was so self-conscious of my work and felt as though I wasn’t good enough. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a photographer who does concert and portrait photography professionally, but I definitely would say concert photography is my strong suit! I’m definitely known as the concert photographer around the city, every time I’m seen in public it’s always “when’s the next show.” Honestly, I feel like what separates me from other’s is firstly my style of shooting, the way I go into forming my photographs is not in any way traditional and secondly, I’m just a kind-hearted person I feel like I bring a massive amount of great energy to every gig I attend which I’ve been told leaves a mark on people. 

What do you like and dislike about the city?
I absolutely love Grand Rapids! This is the city I’ve been born and raised in and with us being a smaller city you just get to know more people, every relationship you make with another person here is like meeting a long-lost family member! One con is the lack of live shows, with the city still growing it’s not many big names rolling though at the moment especially since the pandemic. 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://carloscoleman.myportfolio.com/concert-photography
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/osol0so?utm_medium=copy_link

Image Credits
Carlos Coleman Jay
The villain