Ray Etheridge's life took a dramatic turn at the tender age of eleven, when his parents made the bold decision to relocate from the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles, California to a small, rural town in Oregon. This pivotal move would forever alter the trajectory of Ray's life, as the family settled into a quaint, picturesque town where they had purchased an old, rustic "General Store". This humble abode would prove to be a significant milestone in Ray's journey, as it provided him with a unique opportunity to hone his entrepreneurial skills.
As a young boy, Ray quickly adapted to his new surroundings, and he soon discovered that his neighbors were in need of assistance with various farm-related tasks. Recognizing an opportunity to earn some extra pocket money, Ray threw himself into these tasks with gusto, and by the time he reached the age of fourteen, he had amassed a sizeable sum. Undaunted by his youth, Ray had a vision for something more, and he was determined to turn that vision into a reality.
With his savings in hand, Ray set his sights on opening a mini-theatre in a room above the family's General Store. This ambitious project required Ray to work tirelessly, as he set about transforming the space into a cozy, intimate venue. The theatre was equipped with a state-of-the-art projection booth and plush, "real" theatre seats, a testament to Ray's unwavering dedication and innovative spirit. As the curtain rose on this new venture, Ray Etheridge had truly come of age, his youthful energy and entrepreneurial drive having culminated in the creation of a unique and enduring institution in his small town.
Ray's enthusiasm for the art of filmmaking was significantly amplified when his mother, in a thoughtful gesture, presented him with his initial movie camera, a humble yet capable 8mm model from Sears, a gift that would ultimately spark a lifelong passion.
Later, Ray took the next logical step, investing in a 16mm Bolex camera, an instrument that would serve as a trusted companion throughout his cinematic journey.
Initially, Ray pursued higher education at the University of Oregon, where he spent a year honing his skills and broadening his knowledge before transferring to the Southern California Film Institute, where he would eventually graduate.
As Ray entered the film industry, he gained valuable experience in various roles, including sales and distribution, working for prominent companies such as Universal Pictures, Cinema National, and Filmtreat International.
However, it was not long before Ray came to a profound realization - his true calling lay not in the business of selling movies, but in the creative process of crafting them.
A sudden and unexpected turn of events brought Ray to a pivotal career opportunity, as he secured a position cutting news film for the esteemed ABC station in Portland, Oregon, KATU, where he diligently worked his way up the ranks from editor to cameraman over the course of an impressive 12-year tenure.
Ray's creative endeavors continued to flourish over the next three years as he spearheaded the production of five direct-to-video projects under his own esteemed banner, Golden West Films. This impressive slate of productions included the 1989 release, "The Vernonia Incident", followed by "Death In Hollywood" in 1990, "When the Applause Died" also in 1990, "FART-The Movie" in 1991, and concluding with "Sinatra: An Unauthorized Biography" in 1992.
In 1996, Telemundo extended an invitation to Ray to relocate to Miami, where he embarked on the exciting project, "Edicion Especial". This entertainment program took him on a thrilling journey to various exotic locations throughout the Caribbean, central, and south America. The show's captivating content and Ray's charismatic presence made it a huge success, and it went on to air for a remarkable four years.
Telemundo extended an invitation to Ray, requesting his expertise in spearheading the launch of a brand-new television program, "Esta Manana", as the Chief Photographer. This esteemed position marked a significant milestone in Ray's illustrious career, further solidifying his reputation as a talented and accomplished professional in the realm of photography.
Throughout the years, Ray has continued to hone his craft through freelance work, collaborating on a diverse array of projects, including music videos, commercials, industrials, and television programs. His impressive portfolio serves as a testament to his dedication, versatility, and unwavering commitment to his craft.
Ray's professional affiliations are a reflection of his dedication to his craft. He has been a proud member of the International Cinematographers Guild since 1975, a prestigious organization that brings together like-minded professionals who share a passion for the art of cinematography. Additionally, Ray has been a valued member of the National Press Photographers Association since 1998, a respected organization that champions the work of press photographers and promotes excellence in the field.
