Welcome back to another edition we like to call Community Spotlight, where we highlight everyday ordinary people that live right here in your community with a story to tell. This week we meet Doug Ross of Event Photography and Total Security.
So Doug, tell us a little about yourself and where you come from? Are you from the area? Where did you grow up and how did you get here?
I am from New York, and moved to Texas in 1990 for my job. Growing up I spent a lot of my time overseas as my dad worked for the United Nations and the travel was a little extensive. I worked in the food service industry as an executive steward for a few years before joining the Department of Justice in 1987.
That is so interesting! I’m actually from New York myself.
So from NY, moved to Texas for work, and have been all over the world.
When did you first become interested in the trade that led you to your career? Tell us the story of how your business came to be.
My kids were enrolled in soccer and the coach asked me if I could take pictures of the team. Not only did I take the pictures but I made calendars for them all as well. That was my start and I am now a self-taught professional photographer and videographer. That was in addition to being a full-time Law Enforcement Officer for the Department of Justice for 27 years.
A man of all trades! I love how our kids lead us into our passions and show us the way to find something new about ourselves we didn’t know was there. I bet you didn’t know there was a photographer and videographer inside you either!
So here at Macaroni Kid, we’re all about community and building connections. Tell us, what’s your favorite thing about your community?
I love the Crowley and Fort Worth area. My kids attended Meadowcreek Elementary, the Crowley 9th grade campus and then on to North Crowley High. I love the local parks and walking trails and all that Fort Worth has to offer.
Fort Worth is a really great place to raise a family. The city and cities around it are all so family oriented. We’re glad you landed here with us!
As you’ve gotten to live here for many years now, I’m sure you’ve met and connected with some really great people. Tell us, who are your community mentors and heroes?
I really don't have a particular mentor or hero. I take the best of everyone I meet and use the knowledge to better myself and others. Knowledge that is not passed on is cheating others of the opportunity.
Wow, I love that. Aren’t we all a mosaic of sorts of all the people we get to meet in this life. It’s really beautiful. So from law enforcement to a true art form…looking forward to the future, where do you see yourself in five years?
Since my retirement from Law Enforcement in 2015, I’ve devoted my time to full-time photography and videography, and have dedicated much of my time to my granddaughter. In addition, I have found my other passion in teaching "Less Lethal Alternatives to Deadly Force" to civilians. I do believe that this can help many civilians with at least the knowledge that there are alternatives to firearms in self-defense.
That is such a needed topic these days, and I’m so grateful you’re serving your community in this way.
You’ve had such a diverse career, and I’m sure you’ve met some interesting characters along the way. Can you share with us a funny story or maybe a lesson you’ve learned along that way that would help other aspiring entrepreneurs?
I really don't have a funny story to share regarding my career, however, if you work hard, ask questions, research what you don't know, and keep a clear vision, there is nothing that you cannot accomplish.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to younger aspiring entrepreneurs?
Find what you like and put in the necessary work. You will be rewarded. Not everything is for everyone
It’s so true. I know we all like the phrase, “you can be anything,” but not everything is FOR you. Either it doesn’t serve you or it doesn’t serve others well. You have to find what YOU’RE passionate about, and build from there. And that can take decades! But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that life is long. There’s time.
Before we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share?
Life is not fair, it was never meant to be. Educate yourself in multiple areas and listen to others. Learning is a life-long process, and you can actually learn things from anyone. Keep an open mind, but learn to think for yourself.
Now that’s great advice! Thank you so much for chatting with us today Douglas. It was so great getting to meet you and learn from YOU! We look forward to seeing you out and about in the community.
You can learn more about Douglas on his website. You can also email him at total1@swbell.net
