Isaiah: Skate, Shoot, Repeat

Side Quests & Skate Dreams

INTERVIEW BY: EMILY ARAUZA

MAY 30th, 2025

From recap videos and underground parties to car shoots and skate culture, Isaiah is steadily carving a path through Houston’s creative scene. Best known for his work as a photographer and videographer, he’s recently stepped into event hosting and DJing—proving that versatility is part of his brand. But for Isaiah, the hustle runs deeper than just aesthetics or hype. His journey began with a new energy of skate media and evolved into something much bigger: a passion for capturing movement, music, and moments wherever they collide. In this conversation, he opens up about his roots, the scenes that shaped him, his goals beyond Houston, and why the behind-the-scenes process is just as important as the final product.

Isaiah: “My name is Isaiah, I’m mostly known as a photographer/videographer but also have been working on hosting events and most recently djing.”

Emily Arauza: “Hey Isaiah, thank you for taking the time to chat. I’ve been following your work, and it’s really inspiring to see how you’ve expanded your creative reach. To kick things off, when did you first get into this space? Was there a specific moment or project that set everything in motion for you?”

I: “I started early summer last year, late June. I did a few recaps, and then dropped some film photos from an ‘Untitled’ event which did really well and everyone was just really supportive on all ends. Untitled and Amped were the first groups I wanna say really backed me, DGC, also.”

EA: “That’s really cool—especially seeing how quick the support came in. I actually interviewed Red Jacket not too long ago, so it’s full circle to hear about Amped. How’s the process been for you since then? Also, how old were you when you first realized this was something you were passionate about—and how old are you now?”

I: “Since then, I’ve gotten an opportunity to work with lots of different artists, from fashion shows, to the events, skateboarding demos, brand shoots, and promo vids etc. I mean really I’m probably a late bloomer, I always knew I wanted to do lots of things and be creative but didn’t think films and photos until late high school and afterwards. maybe about 16 or 17.”

EA: “It sounds like you’ve really been able to tap into different creative scenes and make your mark across the board. Even if it started later, it’s clear you found your lane and ran with it. What made you want to get into this specifically—film, photos, the whole creative direction? Was there anyone or anything that inspired you early on?

I: “I mean to be honest, I really focused on it watching skate videos. Seeing how they sync songs up to tricks, the process behind getting one good photo from a trick being done in 6 secs, the whole process behind skate media is really what drove me initially. I fell in love with the process of doing things just as much as the result, I love seeing the work being put in behind the scenes.”

EA: “That makes a lot of sense, I’d say  skate media has such an authentic energy to it, and the way it blends sound, movement, and storytelling definitely takes a sharp eye to appreciate. The fact that you fell in love with the process says a lot & that’s usually where the real passion shows. Looking ahead, what do you see the future looking like for you? Are there any specific goals or directions you’re hoping to take your work in next?”

I: “I really want to take what I’ve learned so far and apply it to skating. I appreciate the party underground scene a lot but I want to take it back to what got my hyped to do this, and hopefully transition to a more skate friendly city. Houston’s skate scene goes through dips where people put skating to the side. So right now I’ve just been doing what you’d call side quests in my eyes. Another huge one would be concert photography and car media.”

EA: “That’s a solid mindset, going back to your roots and channeling everything you’ve learned into what first sparked your passion. It’s cool how you view your current projects as “side quests” while keeping that bigger vision in mind. With that in mind, do you see skating media as the long-term goal? Or is it more of a foundation you want to build off of into other creative spaces like concerts or car content?”

I: “I mean, from all the other creators I’ve seen you can do anything once you get a good enough platform and it just makes sense. With the way skateboarding is moving they’re intermingling with models and things with lots of skaters based in NY. I know like for instance doing a shoot for a Converse sponsored skater could get your foot in the door with a high name shoe brand, for instance. I think with streetwear mixing with skating so much you can cross the barrier a lot easier especially with other extreme sports mixing in like dirt bikes and even DC shoes is known for skating but the Owner was a race car driver. I’ve just noticed all the overlaps that really happen in major cities and I think once I begin traveling seriously they’ll open up if I apply myself. One of my main inspirations, Atiba Jefferson mixed skating and basketball in the early 2000s and it was a sign that it can all be blended. Things like his photo shoot with Kobe Bryant and skaters has given basically a blueprint on how to intertwine these interests you have.”

EA: “It’s smart how you’re thinking beyond just the art and really looking at the culture and industry moves behind it. Atiba Jefferson is a great example—he proved that you don’t have to stay in one lane if you have the vision and the work ethic to back it up. With that kind of blueprint in mind, what’s something you feel like you still need to level up on to get to where you want to be? Whether it’s gear, networking, creative direction. I’d like to know what’s that next step for you right now?”

I: “Definitely gear, I’m money tight right now and making things work, so I’m really appreciative of any paying opportunity. Networking could use some work but I think I do know quite a few important people who can definitely get my foot in some doors. I also have been looking more into things behind the scenes for movies. How they have storyboards and just the overall real planning put into any shoot you do. I really have so many thanks to give and it’s hard talking about myself, but just one person who’s helped me really understand how much you need to put into it is my girlfriend Sofia, she also does media and just the storyboards and way she puts together her shoots has rubbed off on me so much. Very thankful for all the shoots I’ve had the opportunity to work on and even just observe because it gives an idea of how things really will work professionally.”

EA: “That’s real and it’s clear you’re moving with a lot of humility and intention. Making things work while being tight on gear just shows your resourcefulness, and that kind of grit will take you far. It’s also great that you’re already surrounded by people who not only inspire you but help sharpen your craft, like Sofia. That kind of creative partnership can be a game-changer, especially when you’re both learning and growing together. You’ve already been able to do a lot with limited resources, so once you do get access to the tools and spaces you’re aiming for, there’s no telling how far you’ll go. One last thing: if someone younger wanted to get into this space; photos, videos, events, or even skating, what’s a piece of advice you’d give them starting out?”

I: “Honestly, just make due with what you have and persevere and work hard til you make it. Don’t try to jump the gun and skip steps in things; everything takes time and practice, so just honing your craft to the fullest is what I would say to do. Film when you can, skate when you can, take your equipment everywhere because you never know who you’ll see out or what opportunities might come your way.”