Mike Ruiz(I)

At the age of 28 Ruiz began in the field of photography. "I found a camera under my Christmas tree and within minutes, I was obsessed. I began shooting everything in sight. I taught myself the intricate mechanics of the camera but it was a couple of years before I realized that I could actually make a living with my work'" Ruiz was quoted as saying. Presently based in New Jersey, Ruiz is known for beauty, celebrity and fashion photography. Mike's long list of celebrity clients include Priyanka Chopra, Lewis Hamilton, Cardi B, Ruby Rose, Kim Kardashian, Katy Perry, Prince, Taraji P Henson, Penn Badgley, Lakeith Stanfield, Kelly Clarkson, Queen Latifah, Betty White and the list goes on and on. He's also gone on direct several music videos for artists such as Kelly Rowland, Vanessa Williams, Erika Jayne and Rupaul and made his feature film directorial debut with the uproarious comedy "StarrBooty" starring Rupaul. Mike has also appeared frequently on America's and Canada's Next Top Model, Rupaul's Dragrace, along with dozens of other television appearances as an expert in his field. Mike is most proud of his community service having supported such organizations as GMHC, The Trevor Project, Housing Works, It Gets Better Campaign, Live Out Loud, Project Angel Food, and GLAAD. He is also on the honorary board of the "Let There Be Hope" research foundation. Mike's life was changed profoundly after adopting a sweet terrier named Oliver. Oliver inspired Mike to work with various animal rights rights organizations and animal rescues throughout the United States including Stand Up For Pits Foundation and numerous animal rescues nation wide.