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Ramela Arutiunian

Capturing Life’s Raw Moments: The Inspiring Journey of Ramela Arutiunian


How passion and persistence turned an immigrant dream into photographic success

Published on July 26, 2024

Ramela Arutiunian’s story is not just about snapping pretty pictures; it’s about capturing life as it happens, with all its ups and downs, and turning those experiences into a thriving career. This article explores how Ramela, with her relentless spirit and love for the lens, transformed her life’s challenges into stunning visual narratives.

From Hardships to Snapshots: Embracing Life’s Twists and Turns 

Life threw curveballs at Ramela right from the start. Moving to the United States was no easy feat—new country, new language, new everything. But instead of backing down, she took each challenge head-on. She hustled through various odd jobs in New York City, from cleaning apartments to working as a cashier. These experiences, tough as they were, taught her more than just survival; they taught her about the real, gritty life outside the glossy pages of magazines.

A Click in Time: Finding Her Calling Behind the Camera 

The real game changer came when a health scare put Ramela in the hospital. Lying there, she made a promise to herself: if she got out, she’d chase her real passion—photography. And chase it she did. With a camera finally in hand, Ramela began capturing everything from the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan to the spontaneous street scenes that many simply overlook.

Her first projects were humble but heartfelt. She captured local street scenes, everyday people, and the buzzing nightlife, each photo telling its own story. Her unique style—candid, intimate, yet striking—began to attract attention. It wasn’t long before she transitioned from amateur shoots to more professional gigs.

Making a Mark: Crafting a Unique Brand in Photography

Ramela Arutiunian’s career features an impressive array of projects that showcase her exceptional photographic skills. She’s captured behind-the-scenes moments with iconic figures such as Arnold Schwarzenegger and Milla Jovovich, highlighting her prowess in candid photography during high-profile commercial projects.

Her work at the 2023 Oscars for German television showcased her ability to capture the essence of one of the film industry’s most glamorous nights, demonstrating her skill in reportage photography. Additionally, her involvement in an exclusive one-day performance and exhibition in Soho, New York, allowed her to merge street photography with artistic expression, receiving critical acclaim.

Ramela also captured the elegance of New York Fashion Week, photographing actress Serinda Swan and attending pre-parties for the 2024 Oscars, further proving her versatility and ability to navigate and excel in various photographic environments.

Ramela Arutiunian

© Ramela Arutiunian

Sharing the Vision: Mentoring the Next Gen of Photographers

But Ramela’s vision extends beyond her camera lens. She’s passionate about mentoring up-and-coming photographers and sharing lessons from her own experiences. Through workshops and mentorship programs, she teaches more than just the technicalities of photography; she imparts the importance of resilience, adaptability, and personal branding in turning a passion into a profession.

Navigating the Industry: Challenges and Triumphs 

As her reputation grew, Ramela began facing new challenges. The competitive nature of photography in big cities like Los Angeles and New York meant that staying relevant required constant innovation and networking. Despite these hurdles, her commitment to authenticity and her keen eye for detail have kept her in demand.

Looking Ahead: Dreaming Bigger and Bolder 

With her sights set on the future, Ramela is not slowing down. Her next big goals? Breaking into reportage photography in the film industry, holding more solo exhibitions, and eventually opening her own studio. It’s all about telling stories that matter, capturing moments that others might miss, and inspiring others to see the world through their unique lens.

Ramela Arutiunian

© Ramela Arutiunian

Wrapping Up: A Snapshot of Success

Ramela Arutiunian’s journey teaches us something vital: with enough passion and perseverance, even the most challenging circumstances can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Her story isn’t just inspiring for photographers; it’s a call to all of us to view life through a broader lens, to capture every moment, and to make every shot count.

Through Ramela’s eyes, we see the world not as it is, but as it could be—full of moments waiting to be captured, stories waiting to be told. And in her snapshots, we find the inspiration to chase our own dreams, no matter how far off they might seem. This is more than a success story; it’s a reminder that with the right focus, every challenge is an opportunity, and every moment is a potential masterpiece waiting to be discovered.

Culture Editor