Meet Ariana Maria Muniz | Cinematographer & Editor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ariana Maria Muniz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ariana Maria, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued a creative career because there are many ways and jobs in which I both enjoy and can perform pretty successfully. But, one of the best parts of film and television is the worlds they allow you to step into, whether you’re behind and on camera, or watching the final product. You’re transported somewhere new for each presentation, and for me, that’s what keeps the passion alive. Being able to help create these worked is a passion.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Filmmaking has always been a passion of mine. As I went through college and learned the craft, I decided that I what I want most is to shoot and edit. Through all of college, I was Director of photography on at least one project and was also able to edit something on that project, whether it be picture editing, sound or color, I learned to do it all. I know how to do everything from setting up the camera to setting up a project to be handed off to editors to final cuts and delivery.

After college, I’ve been able to experience working as a Production Assistant on sets, editing for Production companies in Colorado, and shooting full projects as a freelancer for anything from dance to live fashion events. It has not been easy getting into any of these positions. I’ve had to take risks at every turn. Turning down some jobs for others, taking pay cuts, not getting paid at all, and and just deciding what would help me move up in my career and what keeps me in the same spot. They are hard decisions to make. But thankfully, I’ve been able to think through what’s best for me in the current state I’m in at the time and go from there. My parents raised me to be a free and strong minded person who can do anything I want if I really want it enough.

So, I always remind myself “I want to tell those stories that people talk about during lunch breaks and at get-togethers. I want my film or show to be the show that inspires someone to get up and say ‘I want to make something like that one day!’” I’ve learned to pick myself up and keep trying when things don’t go my way, and to remind myself that there will always be a new opportunity to be had.

The only thing I’d want everyone to know is that I want to tell all kinds of stories. Everything from real life to something someone dreamt of briefly one night. I want to make it all with all kinds of people and personalities.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
One of my favorite spots to hangout in the city is the Ballpark Viewhouse in Denver. It’s always a fun time, winter or summer. I also like getting Pho near my house and going to the local movie theater in Aurora.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My family has always been my biggest support system. They have always had faith in me and my passion for film. I want to thank both my parents, my sister grandparents, and any other family members who have given me their support as I’ve gone through this journey.

I also want to thank CU Denver’s Film and Television program and Professors for all they do to try and help us understand all we are getting into, and to be the most successful we can at what we want to do. And also the friends who I have made throughout the years, who I am still working with to this day.

Website: arianamariamuniz.com

Instagram: @arianamariamuniz

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariana-maria-muniz-001688185

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@FilmNerdProductions

Image Credits
NUE Magazine shot: Briana Michael Graduation shot: JaydeMoorePhotography