We caught up with the brilliant and insightful David Villalva a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

David, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

Learning how to create my craft took some time. I’ve taken a Photography course at Santa Monica College, because I needed an elective class for my degree. I learned about depth of field, shutter speed, aperture and etc. Long story short I ended up getting a “C” in the class haha. The tools that I learned in the class was engraved in my brain. I decided to explore more and made Photography my main focus.

Practice makes perfect. Speeding up the process for photography will be your down fall. It’s always best to take your time. The skill that was most essential is learning your light source.

Obstacles that came my way was obviously work. It stops me from being creative, but I do my best to make time and go out and photograph stuff.

David, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Photography was suppose to be my minor major, and I would focus more on Graphic Design. Well I ended up taking more art classes at Santa Monica College than taking graphic design courses. I had to take an elective course, and photography was one of the classes. I ended up getting a C in the class(I know right a C…) but the information from the course actually stuck with me. I graduated Santa Monica College with an Associate’s Degree in Public Policy(what a twist right?)

I went to the Art Institute of Los Angeles, to take my Photography career even further. I had a an amazing time taking the photography courses. I was hardly on campus, since I had to work my full time job, so I only took online courses. You can say most of my photography was self taught, and whatever courses I’ve taken on campus, I just ran with it, and developed my photography skills.

I want clients to know that I take pride in my work, and I like to have fun on set. Connection is key to making your photos stand out. Also, that’s what sets me apart from everyone.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My long term goal is to have photography studios of my own, and have other creatives rent out my space to create content. If one studio does well, then I can therefore open another studio, then slowly build my photography studio empire. Main goal is to work for myself and not have to work for anyone else. I think we can all agree we all want to work for ourselves, and not burn out.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The network that you do. You meet so many creative individuals who are after the same thing, and want to be known for their work. The more network you do the more gigs you will get. The word of mouth goes along way, and you’d be surprised on how people speak very highly of your work.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.davidanthonyphoto.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidanthonyphoto

Image Credits

Model: Fabio Schiavone
Agency: Wimbley Management
Underwear: Calvin Klein
Brown Shirt: ALO

Model: Jay Gould
Agency: Wimbley Management
Bandana & Navy Shirt: Copala
Jacket: IVY Park x Adidas