Today we’d like to introduce you to Cristina Candido.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Cristina. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’m a Dallas native born and raised in Southwest Oak Cliff. I began sketching as a child and recall my first figurative drawing of my father at the age of seven. As an artist, the use of oil paints and brushes expanded my mind to find beauty in everything. I focused on my surroundings and captured this beauty with the use of a new tool. Hence my brand was established in 2009. I became known as the “Bombs” photography girl who featured classic cars in published calendars. From here I branched out to California and began working as the Texas photographer for Bombs Magazine. Throughout the years I decided to rebrand myself to fulfill all of my creativity specializing in other areas of art.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey has definitely not been an easy one. I grew up in one of the lowest-income neighborhoods of Dallas ranking high in violence and crime. Along with that came many barriers I had to overcome. Additional hours of work were needed to help achieve my creative and professional goals. As a teenager, I began working at the age of 14 in jewelry sales. The extra income motivated me to continue working through my adolescent years. I worked double shifts while booking photography gigs allowing me to graduate from one of the most prestigious universities in Dallas, Southern Methodist University.
Along with the establishment of my creative brand, my BA degree opened doors professionally in the Human Resources field gaining 10+ years of experience. I’ve juggled my artistic career alongside my professional one wearing multiple hats as an artist and as an HR professional. Yet, as an optimist, I’ve always found ways despite the struggles and I’ve been able to merge the two professions at times.
I’m currently the HR Director for a growing restaurant which has given me the opportunity to use my creative talents and capture the art of culinary. Food photography is a new venture which I’m really excited to explore and have added to my portfolio. My journey continues and it only gets better with continuous dedication and hard work each year.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I am a freelance artist specializing in photography and print design.
My artistic services include:
• Women portraiture: maternity, boudoir, graduates, quince, personal, etc.
• Food photography
Products include:
• Printed and framed photographs: local, travel photography.
• Print design: cards
• Oil or acrylic paintings and sketches.
As I’ve worked with clients, I’ve built many lifelong friendships. I am passionate about my work and what I have to offer. I am in love with my God-given talents and I hope to share this love bringing joy and happiness to every individual it crosses.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
The proudest moment of my creative career so far has been working for Bombs Magazine. Through this working relationship, I’ve made authentic new connections nationwide. The editor, Steven Caudillo, became a mentor who I will always cherish. His photography style and approach are life lessons I will take with me wherever I go.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cristinacandido.com
- Email: cristina.xg@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/xgphotos
- Facebook: facebook.com/xgphotos
- Twitter: twitter.com/xgphotos
Image Credit:
Gilbert Candido – Texas Ranflas CC
Mario Mendez
Edgar Cervantes – Texas Ranflas CC
Tatiana Velasquez
Hilda Navarro
Victoria Castillo
Victor Herrera – Pachuco CC
Quatondra H.
Hey Chica
Desiree Sierra
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