We recently connected with Drew Gonzales and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Drew thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

My photography journey has been entirely self-taught, evolving from using my phone as a medium to mastering a DSLR. Along the way, I’ve relied on online resources to help me develop my skills and understand the art of photography. Looking back, if I had the knowledge I have now, I would have taken more risks and used those lessons as a source of creative insight.

One of the most valuable skills I’ve developed is the ability to brainstorm and visualize concepts—seeing an idea in my mind and executing it effectively. This skill is crucial because photography isn’t just about capturing an image; it’s about telling a story through composition, lighting, and subject matter. The ability to conceptualize a shot before even picking up the camera sets great photographers apart.

One of the biggest obstacles in my learning journey has been my background in science and technology, which initially kept me from fully immersing myself in the creative space. Coming from a more structured, analytical field, shifting to a world driven by artistic expression and abstract thinking felt unfamiliar and, at times, limiting. The challenge wasn’t just learning the technical skills of photography but also embracing a different way of thinking—prioritizing creativity, emotion, and visual storytelling over logic and data.

Knowing what I know now, I could have sped up my learning by stepping out of my comfort zone sooner, experimenting with different styles, and pushing creative boundaries without fear of failure. Taking risks—whether through unconventional compositions, new techniques, or unique storytelling approaches—would have given me more growth opportunities.

Ultimately, my journey has taught me that photography is more about perspective and vision than technical skills. Overcoming the mental barrier of transitioning from a scientific mindset to a creative one has been a key part of my growth. I’ve realized that creativity isn’t limited by background—it’s about the willingness to explore, experiment, and embrace the artistic process.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name on social media is GUNZLS, and I’ve been on my photography journey since 2019. Over the years, my brand has undergone many revisions, each reflecting my artistic growth. I’m about to launch a new era of my work deeply rooted in bold visual storytelling, emphasizing the color red. This next phase is about solidifying my creative style and ensuring that when people see my photos, they immediately recognize them as a GUNZLS piece.

My photography primarily focuses on fashion editorials, where I incorporate motifs and symbolism inspired by Latino culture. However, I offer various photography services beyond editorial work, including portraiture, engagement sessions, graduation photos, and lifestyle shoots. No matter the type of session, I approach every project with the same level of passion and attention to detail, ensuring that each image tells a story.

I’m most proud of having my work represented in the M.A.S Cultura Art Gallery and being featured on PhotoVogue. These milestones remind me of how far I’ve come and motivate me to continue pushing creative boundaries. What sets me apart from others in the field is my nontraditional background. I didn’t start in the creative space. I come from a science and technology background. This unique perspective influences how I approach photography, blending structure with artistic expression in a fresh and unconventional way.

When working with clients, I aim to create a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves. I believe that the best photos come from genuine emotion, and I strive to ensure that my client’s voices are heard throughout the process. Whether it’s an editorial shoot or a personal portrait session, I want people to feel empowered, vulnerable, and seen in front of my lens.

Ultimately, my work is about more than just photography—storytelling, representation, and emotional connection. As I step into this new era, I want my audience to see and feel my images. My goal is to leave a lasting impact, where my creative vision is unmistakable, and my work speaks for itself as uniquely GUNZLS.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I aim to become a resource and mentor for emerging artists, providing the guidance and support I wish I had when I was starting out. I want to be the photography connection for others, the bridge that helps them navigate the industry, refine their craft, and find their own creative voice.

True mastery isn’t just about excelling in my work; it’s about sharing knowledge and uplifting others along the way. I believe creativity thrives in the community and want to create opportunities for collaboration, growth, and mutual inspiration. Whether through mentorship, sharing resources, or simply being someone others can turn to for advice, I want to help build a space where upcoming artists feel seen, supported, and empowered.

This mission is what drives my creative journey. It pushes me to continue evolving for myself and those who will come after me. I want to open doors, share the stage, and contribute to a creative landscape where success isn’t just individual; it’s collective.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

After college, my career was fully immersed in science and technology. I worked as a lead laboratory scientist for several years, dedicating my time to analysis, experimentation, and structured problem-solving. However, despite my success in that field, I always felt a pull toward something more creative. Even while conducting research and running tests, my mind would drift to ideas for photoshoots, scouting locations, and discovering new talent. It became clear that my true calling was in the creative world, not just the scientific one.

Making the pivot from science to photography wasn’t easy. The creative industry often values experience and connections, and I was overlooked for opportunities simply because my background didn’t fit the traditional mold. It was frustrating at times, knowing that I had the vision and dedication but lacked the years of industry experience that many gatekeepers looked for.

Instead of waiting for someone to give me a chance, I created my own lane. I focused on building my portfolio, refining my artistic voice, and immersing myself in the craft. Every shoot, every project, and every creative risk I took was a step toward establishing myself in this space. It hasn’t been an easy transition, but it has been one of the most fulfilling journeys of my life. As I continue to carve out my place in the industry, I embrace my nontraditional background as something that sets me apart rather than holds me back.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://gunzlsshots.myportfolio.com/
• Instagram: gunzls.shots
• Youtube: gunzls