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Moevir Magazine August Issue Homme Series 2024 featured edition

[ ANTHONY ZUNIGA a.k.a. TONY DIRECTS ]

https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/2870342

Talent: Anthony Zuniga @tonydirects

Photographer & Creative Director: Jim Jordan @jimjordanphotography

Production: White Cross Productions @whitecrossproductions_

Studio: White Cross Studios @whitecrossstudios

Producer: Yan Xi Toh @thoryanxi

Stylist: Jim Jordan @jimjordanphotography

Stylist Assistant: Art Rivadeneyra @arts_a_trip

All Grooming, Skin, and Hair Products: White Cross Beauty @whitecrossbeauty

Cosmetics: White Cross Beauty @whitecrossbeauty

Camera System: Leica @leica_camera @leicacamerausa

Lighting Equipment: Aputure @aputure.lighting

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What initially drew you to the world of YouTube and content creation?

What drew me into creating content was my love and passion for bringing to life ideas that I had in my head. To think of an idea is one thing, but to bring it to life is another.

How do you infuse your personal experiences into your comedic skits?

I infuse my personal experiences in my comedic skits by taking moments that are relatable and funny to create a video others can laugh at while relating to it. We can take moments in our lives that are sometimes serious, to make them funny and lighthearted. 

What process do you follow when brainstorming new video ideas?

My process when I brainstorm new video ideas is to write my video idea out, create a mini script, find someone who I can feature in the video with me, and schedule a date so I can film it. 

Can you share a favorite collaboration you've done with another influencer?

A favorite collaboration I've done with another influencer has to be my boyfriend Brendon Tago also known on social media as Alphatago. The videos we create are beyond special to me because not only is he my partner in crime, but he's also my best friend. 

How has the Latino culture in LA shaped your identity as an actor and creator?

Growing up in LA/the IE, my sense of humor and how I carry myself was inspired and created. I am who I am because of where I grew up so therefore that's what I incorporate when it comes to me being an actor and influencer.

What are some key challenges you’ve overcome as a social media influencer over the years?

Some challenges I have overcome as a social media influencer is learning to ignore people who don't respect my ideas. I understand not everyone will agree with my vision but life is too short to leave negative comments.  

How do you integrate LGBTQIA+ advocacy into your content?

I integrate LGBTQIA+ advocacy in my content by bringing awareness to issues that need to be faced. I am someone who pushes for equality and love when it comes to being a Gay Latino.

Can you describe a powerful moment from one of your discussions with the LGBTQIA+ community?

A powerful moment I have had with the LGBT community is when I finally decided to come out of the closet. Coming out wasn't only emotional for me, but it was emotional and special for a lot of queer Latinos that followed me. 

Who are the people and ideals that keep you motivated and inspired?

The people that keep me motivated are my friends, family, and my partner. They keep me going when I feel like I can't go anymore. They are the ones that push me to be GREAT!

What does living unapologetically mean to you in your daily life?

Living unapologetically means expressing who I am without any hesitation. Living my life for myself and not for anyone else.

What key lessons have you learned from your decade-plus experience as an influencer?

Lessons I have learned as an influencer are to never expect everything to go your way. 

How do you find a balance between creating comedy and addressing serious issues?

How I find a balance when it comes to creating comedic videos and addressing serious issues is to acknowledge issues when they occur. Depending on what I am talking about, my tone in my videos change.

Have you ever received feedback from a fan that deeply moved you?

I have received feedback from a lot of my supporters that have moved me emotionally. Hearing from others how my videos have impacted them means the world to me. It has also pushed me to keep going!

What advice would you offer to aspiring content creators aiming for success?

The advice I would give someone who wants to be a successful content creator is to stay consistent, try different things until you find what works for you, and lastly have fun creating content. 

How do you see the future of social media impacting the way content is created and consumed?

Social media is already impacting the future on how things are created and consumed because social media is what everyone is on. It's also easier to access since everyone has a phone that we use every day.

What strategies do you use to maintain creativity under pressure?

Strategies I use to maintain creativity are to think back at current events that happened in my life. I can draw inspiration from anything I have recently done. 

What are your long-term goals for your acting career, and how are you working towards them?

When it comes to my acting career, my long-term goals to become better are to audition for different roles that can be out of my comfort zone. I want to be the best in any role that I act in.

How has your content style changed since you started, and what has stayed the same?

My content style has evolved in many ways but ultimately has stayed true to who I am. I have grown over the past years and my style has matured.

In what ways does your personal life influence your creative output?

My personal life influences my creative output in every way! My content is unique because of the things I have gone through in my personal life.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and how has it influenced your career?

The best advice I've been given is " The older you get, the harder it becomes." Meaning don't wait to make things happen until you're older, make things happen now while you can!