We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Roberto Hannibal. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Roberto below.
Roberto, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about the best boss, mentor, or leader you’ve ever worked with.
I’ve had the blessing of having many great bosses throughout my career. One of my favorites have to be Carolyn. She was a boss, but also a mentor. Her desk was opposite my cubicle so I could talk to her through my wall. She saw something special in me and guided me to believe in myself. That nurturing was something I did not know I needed. Sometimes you just need a voice to tell you that you are doing well.
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
I am a photographer. I specialize in portraits, food, and fashion. I have been doing photography professionally for two years. I started during COVID when a friend asked me to help out on a music video shoot. I immediately fell in love. I did not get my own camera until a few months after. I started photographing my friends for practice. In February 2021, I decided to do a big project for Black History Month. I did a photoshoot with about 15-20 people. It became my first published work. Following that shoot, I began to work more professionally. I got hired for products, events, headshots, etc. I have been working nonstop since I started. As a photographer, I found that you have to balance work with fun and creative shoots. These types of photoshoots fuel my passion. They keep me excited. I am most proud of being featured in Vogue. I did a series showcasing Black Queer Love. So, the image they accepted meant a lot to me. I look forward to doing more projects and expanding my career.
Any advice for managing a team?
Your team is only as passionate as you are. I treat my team as partners on my projects. Although I will always have the final say, I make sure everyone’s voice is heard.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
I have found that working with people I have not worked with before is the best way to meet new clients. For example, I may do a free photoshoot with a model or MUA. And then they will refer me to people they know. Or someone will see that photo and they will reach out to me. Working outside your network is helpful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.robertohannibal.com/photographyportfolio
- Instagram: @ptcameraguy