We recently connected with Edwin Vargas and have shared our conversation below.

Edwin, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

I didn’t just learn photography, I lived it. My journey started at a Small Art University in Panama City, where I built a strong foundation. But my real growth came from my mentors. They didn’t just teach me how to take pictures, they showed me how to use light, control mood, and tell a story through images.
Lighting became my focus. It wasn’t just about making a photo bright or dark. It shaped how a subject looked and felt. I spent hours studying how light and shadows worked. Those lessons became the core of my style and set my work apart.
But I wanted to go further. I went to Mexico City to study cinematography. There, I learned how to use movement, composition, and sequences to tell stories. Photography captures a single moment, but cinematography connects those moments to build something bigger. Studying both gave me new ways to see and create.
Looking back, I could have grown faster by stepping out of my comfort zone sooner. I wish I had tried more lighting setups, worked with more professionals, and learned the business side of photography earlier. Knowing how to market myself, talk to clients, and price my work was just as important as my creative skills.
Like any journey, mine had challenges. At first, I had few resources. The market in Panama City was small, which meant fewer opportunities. Balancing creativity with business was also hard. But these challenges pushed me to think differently and work harder.
If I had to give advice to new photographers, I’d say this: Master lighting first. It’s the foundation of everything. Learn business early, because talent alone won’t take you far. And find mentors who can guide you, not just in the technical side of photography, but in navigating the industry and building relationships.
Photography is not just about capturing what’s in front of you. It’s about creating something new. That’s the lesson I carry with me every day, whether I’m taking a photo or working on a film.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Edwin, a photographer, creative director, and educator based in San Francisco, originally from Costa Rica. My journey in photography started in Panama City, where I studied at a small photography school. But what truly shaped me were my mentors, seasoned professionals who coached me and gave me the best skills in lighting. Their guidance taught me how to sculpt with light, create atmosphere, and bring a strong visual identity to every image I capture.

How I Got into Photography

I’ve always been drawn to storytelling through visuals, and photography became my way of expressing emotions, concepts, and narratives that transcend words. Studying in Panama City gave me a solid technical foundation, but my growth accelerated when I started working with mentors who pushed me beyond textbook techniques. They taught me how to see light, shape it, and use it to elevate a subject or scene. That foundation in lighting became my signature and the cornerstone of my work.

What I Do & What Sets Me Apart

I specialize in bold, conceptual, and artistic photography, often blending fine art with high-fashion, editorial, and commercial aesthetics. My work spans luxury fashion, jewelry, beauty and editorial photography, where I create powerful images that feel cinematic, evocative and visually striking.

What sets me apart is my ability to create images that are not just technically precise but deeply expressive. I don’t just take photos. I design the entire visual experience. From the initial concept to the lighting setup, styling, and final retouching, I approach photography like a director, ensuring that every detail contributes to the mood and story.

Many brands, artists, and publications struggle to create visuals that stand out in a saturated market. They need imagery that not only looks stunning but also connects emotionally with their audience. That’s where I come in. I help clients elevate their visual identity. I bring a deep understanding of lighting, composition, and artistic storytelling to ensure that every project is visually memorable and strategically effective.

Beyond my photography, I’m proud of my role as an educator and advocate for underrepresented photographers. I serve as the Vice President of the national board of American Photographic Artists (APA) and previously chaired the San Francisco chapter. Through my work with APA, I push for fair industry practices, stronger copyright protections, and better career opportunities for photographers.

I’m also deeply passionate about mentorship because I know firsthand how valuable it is. Just as my mentors helped me refine my craft, I aim to empower the next generation of photographers, helping them develop their unique voice, master their technical skills, and navigate the business side of the industry.

What I Want People to Know About My Work

• It’s bold, artistic, and concept-driven. I don’t create generic images, I create visuals with purpose, impact, and a distinct artistic identity.
• Lighting is everything. Mastering light is what transforms a good photo into an unforgettable one, and it’s the foundation of my work.
• Photography is a collaborative art. I work closely with clients, creative teams, and brands to bring visions to life in a way that’s both authentic and visually striking.

Any advice for managing a team?

Managing a team and maintaining high morale comes down to trust, empowerment, and creating a positive work culture. Based on my experience as Director of Lab Resources at The Academy of Art University, here’s what works:
1. Trust & Empowerment: Avoid micromanaging, give employees ownership of their space and responsibilities. Trusting them builds confidence and leadership.
2. Encourage Collaboration: Foster a team mentality where employees support each other and work together toward common goals.
3. Recognize Strengths & Achievements: Acknowledge individual skills and accomplishments to boost morale and motivation.
4. Create a Safe & Open Environment: Make sure everyone feels heard, valued, and respected. An open-door policy helps build trust.
5. Provide Growth Opportunities: Encourage skill development, leadership opportunities, and creative problem-solving to keep employees engaged.
6. Lead by Example: Maintain a positive attitude, stay engaged, and show your team that their work matters.

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

My creative journey is driven by a mission to help others succeed in the photography industry through education, mentorship, and advocacy. Through APA, I’ve developed initiatives like Level Up, a program designed to uplift underrepresented photographers by organizing high-quality photoshoots with sponsors, crew, and talent to help them build stronger portfolios.

By mentoring emerging photographers and creating opportunities for them to grow, I aim to break barriers in the industry, ensuring that talent—not privilege—determines success. My work isn’t just about photography; it’s about empowering the next generation of visual storytellers.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.edwinvargas.net
• Instagram: @edvvinvargas
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/edwinvargasphotography/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwinvargas001/
• Other: https://apanational.org/leaders/board-members/edwin-vargas