Today we’d like to introduce you to Paul Saenz.
Hi Paul, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My name is Paul Saenz, I was born in Santa Monica Hospital. Life for me was back-and-forth between West LA and San Fernando Valley. I picked up a camera at the age of 14. I was introduced a film photography by a friend of mine from the moment forward I always had one a camera something I’ve had on me through some of the roughest parts of my life, including homelessness and addiction, and on the opposite end being sober and reintegrating myself in the society in a positive manner and being able to photograph everything in between those experiences. Today I work in the Treatment industry and I help people avoid going through the pain and suffering that I went through in order to get to where I am today. Photography is something that is still very much present in my life and I’m always continuing to better my craft however I can.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I think life always has trials and tribulations and that’s what really helps us become better humans at the end of the day as long as you don’t fall victim to your circumstances. My biggest struggle was going through addiction and homelessness, as I’ve stated before I’d say and even bigger struggle was learning how to stay sober once I got sober and learning how to enjoy life again, even through everything that had happened already.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I enjoy shooting a lot of street photography. I like to believe that my work is cultural preservation, as well as cultural representation through photography. i’m most proud of the work I’ve gotten a chance to showcase at numerous shows throughout Los Angeles, California, and Arizona as well. I believe my ability to diversify what I photograph is my strong suit.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was and still to this day a social butterfly, sports was something that really consumed a lot of my time growing up. At a young age I always like to wander the streets and be outside.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @saenzofthetime
