Sunset Ave Media takes its name from the street I grew up on in New Hampshire — a small but meaningful tribute to my parents and the incredible childhood they gave me. That foundation of gratitude and a sense of home has followed me everywhere since. Over the years, I’ve lived in San Diego, Boston, Los Angeles, and eventually found my way back to New England—where I now live on the North Shore of Massachusetts with my lovely wife and cat Phoebe. Along the way, I’ve picked up a deep appreciation for new places, different people, and the moments that make each experience unique.
Music has always been a constant in my life. Whether it’s being at a live show or spinning records at home, I’m drawn to just about every genre and style—yes, even country (with a soft spot for anything pre-1979). That love for music has shaped how I see the world: rhythm, energy, and emotion all play a role in how I approach my work.
Photography started as a way to document my travels, but it quickly turned into something much more. For over a decade, it’s been the thing that allows me to slow down, pay attention, and capture moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. In 2015, when I moved to Los Angeles, I decided to take that passion seriously. It felt like the right place to fully commit—somewhere people embrace being in front of the camera and creativity is part of everyday life.
During that time, I worked closely within the photo and video industry, gaining hands-on experience with lighting, lenses, and production workflows. Being surrounded by talented creatives every day helped me develop a deeper understanding of how to shape light, tell stories, and bring ideas to life. That period played a major role in building the foundation for my work today.
Outside of photography, I’ve also built experience on the business side of things. I was a partner in a brewery, where I learned firsthand what it takes to build a brand, connect with a community, and create something people genuinely care about. That experience gave me a deeper understanding of how visuals play a role in shaping identity and driving engagement.
I later brought that perspective into a full-service marketing agency, where I worked as a Project Manager as well as a Video and Photo Lead. There, I had the opportunity to work on high-profile campaigns, collaborate with talented creative teams, and help develop strategy for large brands. Being part of that world sharpened my ability to not only create strong visuals, but to think about how and why they work—how they connect with an audience, support a message, and ultimately deliver results.
Today, my work is rooted in authenticity. I aim to create images and video that feel natural, intentional, and real—whether I’m working with brands, businesses, or individuals. Every project is an opportunity to tell a story, and I approach each one with the same curiosity and passion that first got me hooked on photography—now backed by real-world experience in both creative and strategic spaces.
If you’ve made it this far, thank you. Your support and interest genuinely mean a lot—it’s what allows me to keep doing what I love.
— Frank H. Messer IV
