Meet Martin Cruz of Shot by Martin Cruz in Salem

Today we’d like to introduce you to Martin Cruz.

Martin, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My name is Martin Cruz, I’m a photographer and cinematographer from Salem, the north shore area. I’m 25 years old, and I’ve been pursuing photography for 8 years, videography for 3. I started taking photos of myself and of nature when I first started. From there I was hired for a few private events, my very first booking was a Quinceañera. Eventually I started taking photos for Boston’s nightlife, upscale events and concerts. My very first appearance on stage was at the House Of Blues, in Boston. Alongside local icons Dj Sisko and Master Millions opening set for French Montana. Which led to me capturing most of the nightlife and major concerts. The nightlife, although didn’t pay well, connected me and gave me a platform to share the stage with some of the industries biggest names. From 50 cent, Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, Future and more. I was also the official cameraman of Taz’s Angels for 4 years. With the connections I’ve made, I landed some international bookings. I’ve been to Turks and Caicos, Thailand, Portugal, London, Dubai, doing what I love. Today I’m focusing on music videos and seeking an artist to go on tour with.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Overcoming medical issues has always been an issue for myself, but I don’t ever let it stop me. When I was 12, I was misdiagnosed for a severe arthritis. Firstly my doctor thought it was growing pains, then we came to find out I was losing extreme weight and strength. The doctor then thought I had bone cancer possibly. After properly being diagnosed by a doctor in Boston, we found out that I have polyarticular rheumatoid arthritis. Fast forward a few years, this affected my ability to draw, write, take pictures, use computers, and day to day things, but I never let it stop me. Sure it slowed me down, but it never put a pause on my passion. At the age of 21, I was in an almost fatal car accident on the highway. Thankfully no body but myself was hurt, I broke my back but I lucked out. I’m able to fully function, with some nerve damage. Another obstacle I’ve had to face was coming up in a generation where social media runs the internet. Keeping an image, and keeping up with it is a lot more work than we bargained for.

Please tell us about Shot by Martin Cruz.
What makes my company and brand unique is that it’s ME, myself. I am my brand. Anything I do, or anytime you look up Martin Cruz, everything will be connected. From my videos and photos, to my startup clothing line. I provide both photos, videos, and even graphics. I’m cutting down on how many people work for you because I am multifaceted. I do everything from promotional or commercial work, behind the scenes, Vlogs, photo shoots anything that you are looking to achieve, and I can bring to life. I’m providing visual story lines for the viewer. I have worked with a handful of iconic individuals including Rick Ross, 50 cent, Future, lil Wayne, and many more. I was the official cameraman for Tazs angels. I’m happy doing what I love for work, without it feeling like it is. Although the money isn’t there, I’m not doing it for the money, I’m doing it because this is what I love.

If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Everything is a lesson learned.

Pricing:

• Photos start at 200 for the initial service, 50$ every additional hour. 1 hour is included
• Videos start at 400 for the initial service, 150$ every additional hour. 2 hours are included
• Fliers and graphics range anywhere between 50$-150$

Contact Info:

• Phone: 9783941508
• Email: shotbymartincruz@gmail.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/shotbymartincruz
• Facebook: Martin Cruz

Image Credit:
Shot by Martin Cruz
Josh Niconchuk
Tiago Disilva

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