Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Rodrigo DeMedeiros. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Rodrigo, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?

Nothing is everlasting, and time seems to be accelerating lately. I try to focus in the moment, being in the present time, especially in regards to photography. I remember when I got my first camera, an analog Pentax k1000 when I was 18 years-old, and how fascinated I was with the idea of freezing moments in time, turning them into forever instants that could not and would not be replicated or repeated. And being a shy person in an industry that favors big egos, I was able to use the camera as an instrument to connect with people and learn about their lives, their stories, and ultimately break barriers. I have been thinking about legacy and what it means. I do hope that people will remember me for the absolute joy I put into my subjects, and how the imagery I create bring beauty and context into the world; but mostly I want to be remembered as someone who formed strong connections, inspired trust, and treated others with the utmost respect and dignity. Lastly, as someone who pushed boundaries and embraced diversity in all aspects. My images shall outlast me for a long time, hopefully.

Rodrigo, 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?

I was an artist before finding photography and making it my primary vessel of expression. I pursued a Bachelors in Communications, majoring in Advertising, but Photography really has been my primary focus ever since. I think the main reason why I have been relatively successful in the industry is my approach. I never allowed the practical and technical aspects of photography to come before my artistic expression. A camera is a tool, like a paintbrush, a pencil, a computer. It is important to understand all of those instruments, their wows and limitations, but more important is to not allow those things to inhibit your creativity. I see so many profession colleagues get bogged down in f stops and ISOs, and thus compromising their vision; the results are affected immensely. That type of stress also introduces other problems: poor connection with the subjects, bad design decisions, and lackluster final product. I push myself to dare, to take risks, so that ultimately I can create something great and interesting. And you just won’t have the right head space to do your best if your focus is put solely on getting a perfect exposure. The way I work is very simple: there are no gimmicks, no complicated or intimidating set ups. But I always come in with a vision, and intention, and an open mind to let things happen. My best work is a result of letting go of any illusion of control. It’s all about that connection with the subject (in regards to people), and a strong ability to adapt to the circumstances around me. I am extremely comfortable with ambiguity; in fact, I wholeheartedly welcome the unexpected. I bring a strong technical baggage, extensive experience, and a genuine interest in the situation in front of me. That doesn’t mean I like to put myself in situations that might lead to failure – there’s truly nothing more frustrating. I like to think that when people come to me about a project they understand my capabilities and trust my creative input.

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

There is a lot more room now to exercise creative expression than ever before. But we are also so bombarded by everyone’s needs and wants, be it in the form of opinions or artistic expression, that many times things lack proper context and get diluted in the excessive noise. It’s important to always tap into context when producing work; it’s crucial to research, observe, be humble, and understand that in order to stay relevant in the industry we need to continue to be open to learn. All innovation is preceded by trial and error. It’s extremely hard to be original, and so staying true to yourself is vital to survive in the creative industry. And success has a different meaning to each individual. What I seek most is that truth behind each photograph – that it somehow has a bit of me in it, and is not just lost in translation. Not all work is so impeccable, or precious to bypass certain primary needs – a photographer is a professional like any other, and a business needs to generate revenue and continue to thrive. But it’s about making sure that the work is always done with integrity, respect, and quality. I am happiest when I can go places, connect with people, and feel the thrill of seeing something for the very first time – that untainted, fresh view of the world brings unparalleled fulfillment.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

Over the years I have become hyper aware of the fact that I am a Latino immigrant and that I will likely always be viewed as a fish out of water. In the very beginning of my journey here in America, that thought never crossed my mind. As I acquired more experience, I also started to notice that my accent, my appearance and my natural behavior would often precede any talent or result I could put forward. Looking back, I realize that being Latino in a very cutthroat industry may sometimes have affected my ability to advance, get promoted, or land a more lucrative deal. I was naive in thinking that my work would always speak for itself. But my cultural background is a defining factor of my identity, and the only way I can be successful is if I embrace it fully and let it naturally seep into my work and my artistic expression. I don’t need to apply any filters, or tone-police it. In fact, I believe that letting go of that fear of rejection has allowed me a lot of freedom in the creative process and interactions with the outside world. Therefore, I am unapologetic about my roots and really try to infuse it into everything I produce. If you can’t be true to yourself, every aspect of your life will cause unnecessary suffering.

Contact Info:

• Website: rodrigod.com
• Instagram: rodrigod1970
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodrigodemedeiros

Image Credits
Portrait of Rodrigo DeMedeiros by Isabella Richter de Medeiros. All other images: Rodrigo DeMedeiros