Michael Carlos
We’re stoked to have our friend Michael Carlos with us for this week’s Dreamos Round Table! Michael’s a visual storyteller from New Orleans, now building his dreams from Los Angeles, CA.
Through videography, graphic design, and photography, Michael’s work focuses on aesthetically driven visual storytelling and advertising. With an ultramodern style, Michael’s work has been sought out by brands and artists like Netflix, The Bachelorette ABC, Bar Stool Sports, Lennon Stella, and Elevation Worship.
As Michael continues finding creative inspiration through His relationship with God, he continues pointing others back to Jesus in a new, unorthodox way. We know you’ll be encouraged and inspired as you hear more from his heart, story, and pursuit.
What dream are you currently turning into reality?
I died last year (long story lol), and my dream has always been to live in California. So, in my recent move to CA, being able to film and help change people's lives throughout that process has allowed so many dreams to flourish. It’s a true joy to be a visual storyteller through videography, graphic design, and creative direction; despite the realization of that almost being taken away.
When did you first realize you discovered your dream?
You could say the hustle started young. In grade three, I received an airbrush kit, and until the principal found out, started painting my friends name’s on Gildan t-shirts for fifteen dollars a pop. So, it’s always been there, but as I grow, I see it shift into new areas and formats pretty frequently.
How does your faith go hand in hand with pursuing your dream?
I want my art to be a peek in the window for what God can do through me and others. Through creativity, we have such a unique opportunity to connect people to Christ who wouldn’t necessarily walk into a church building. So, I always want what I create to be a direct line back to the ultimate creative Creator.
What’s one or two practical steps you take to keep moving forward?
Create daily. Make the good stuff, the dream job stuff, the stuff you wouldn’t ever want to see in the light of day, and don’t take yourself too seriously while doing it. Mozart composed a song full of notes in the wrong key just to spice things up for a change. If Mozart can create freely, so can we.
What encouragement would you share with someone who’s going after their dream?
At all costs, be available and adaptable. I feel like my best success in life has been because I was available and willing to learn, or even support someone else’s success. Often allowing others to lead speaks louder about your leadership than leading yourself.