Today we’d like to introduce you to Antono Cuellar
Hi Antono, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I come from a family where the love for photography was more than just a hobby—it was a way of life. My dad, an avid camera enthusiast, was never without his trusty camera, especially during our family adventures. Each trip culminated in a grand slideshow presentation of his captured moments, a cherished tradition I eagerly anticipated.
My journey into professional photography began serendipitously. Many of my friends were in the real estate business and frequently sought my help to photograph their properties. As my photos gained recognition and demand grew, I found myself diving deeper into the technical aspects of architectural and interior photography. Around this time, I was dating a fashion stylist, which sparked my interest in lifestyle and portrait photography, pushing me to explore beyond the confines of architectural shots.
A pivotal moment in my career was meeting a photographer who would later become a close friend. His work, capturing the essence of luxury hotels worldwide, was nothing short of mesmerizing. The combination of stunning imagery and the allure of travel struck a chord with me. Inspired by his work and the possibility of merging my passions for travel and photography, I set my sights on a new goal.
With a clear vision and unwavering determination, I decided to pursue a career in luxury hotel photography. The journey has been a blend of artistic expression, technical mastery, and the thrill of exploring new destinations, making every moment behind the lens an adventure of its own.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As you might imagine, a career as glamorous and captivating as photography comes with fierce competition. My journey to where I am today was anything but smooth. For the first five years, I juggled a second job while painstakingly building a portfolio that would eventually open doors to paid opportunities.
I was relentless in my pursuit of a unique style and an impressive body of work. Any photographer will tell you that the early years are crucial for stylistic development. Many of my initial projects were abandoned halfway through, as my artistic vision evolved faster than I could complete them. This constant evolution was both frustrating and exhilarating, driving me to push the boundaries of my creativity and technical skills.
Despite the challenges, my passion for photography fueled my persistence. Each project, whether completed or not, was a stepping stone, refining my craft and shaping my identity as a photographer. The journey was demanding, but every struggle was a lesson, every setback a catalyst for growth.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Since the late 2000s, I have focused my career on capturing the essence of luxury hotels. This pivot has taken me around the globe, photographing some of the world’s most stunning travel destinations. Over time, my portfolio expanded to encompass every facet of the hospitality and travel industry. From food and beverage to lifestyle photography and videography, alongside my specialty in architecture and interiors, I’ve embraced a diverse range of subjects.
One of the highlights of my career was being selected to photograph Qatar Airways’ campaign for the most recent World Cup. This prestigious assignment underscored my reputation for exceptional lighting techniques and technical prowess. These skills have earned me invitations to speak on behalf of several photography equipment manufacturers, sharing my expertise with fellow enthusiasts and professionals.
Additionally, I have been honored to join the roster of workshop instructors at the esteemed Maine Media Workshops. This role has further solidified my status as an authority in the field, allowing me to mentor aspiring photographers and share the knowledge I’ve amassed over the years. My journey has been a thrilling blend of exploration, creativity, and technical mastery, making every shoot an exciting new adventure.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
While I haven’t faced significant financial or operational risks, I have certainly taken artistic leaps and pushed myself beyond my comfort zone. A decade ago, after establishing myself as an authority in architectural photography, I decided to explore new territories, venturing into lifestyle and action portraits. This is a bold move that many photographers shy away from, as it involves stepping from a position of expertise into unfamiliar territory.
This adventurous shift not only enriched my storytelling abilities but also expanded my client base. Embracing the challenge of mastering different genres of photography has been immensely rewarding. It allowed me to weave diverse narratives through my lens, capturing the vibrancy of life in its many forms. This journey has been a testament to the power of artistic risk-taking, opening up new avenues and opportunities that I never imagined.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://antoniocuellarphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/antoniocuellarph/
- Twitter: https://x.com/antoniocphoto
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnKmz-XqgHCYboDk3om0xVQ
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/architecturalph/
Image Credits
©Antonio Cuellar Photography https://antoniocuellarphotography.com