Today we’d like to introduce you to Luis Martinez.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Luis. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Well, this journey started for me about three years ago when I decided to move to Dallas from San Antonio TX. I had recently been discovered by The Kim Dawson Agency through their annual Model Search in 2016 and I was lucky enough to be one of the six finalists who received a contract for modeling. That’s where my story in the fashion industry began, but I had never imagined I would be doing modeling and photography full time back then.
Before moving to Dallas, I was pursuing an education in the medical field, physical therapy to be more specific. I was getting ready to start applying to medical school and go through all the fun of that process when I got reached by the agency. After a couple of trips back and forth between San Antonio and Dallas, I made the decision of taking a break from school and see what modeling had to offer. In my mind, I had the idea of working for a bit, saving the money and going back to school after a year or so, which obviously hasn’t happened yet.
Growing up, a career in the arts wasn’t really an option for me. My parent’s being both scholars, always pushed me towards those highly regarded careers, but who would’ve known that something new, exciting and great was waiting for me in Dallas. The fashion industry and my new “family” within it, made me realize that there was so much more out there other than posing for a picture. I found a new way of expressing myself. I learned how creativity and imagination have no limits, and how you can make something beautiful out of what you least expect.
After about a year in Dallas, our agency sent out an email to everyone stating how social media was becoming a big factor for clients and how we should stay current by putting out their quality content to remain on the “trend” and up to date. So, in February of 2017, I bought my first camera. In my mind, I was purchasing this camera to hopefully come up with some sort “blog” or YouTube channel and put content out there just like my agency had advised. Without even having prior knowledge of how to work a camera nor have any sort of educational background on editing, I set out and started taking pictures of my closest friends in the industry. Next thing I know, they are posting our pictures on social media, and people start reaching out to me wanting to work with me. In the beginning, I personally didn’t think it would grow to become what I do today as a full-time job. It was a “hobby” and something I would just do while hanging out with friends. Once the agencies of my friends started reaching to me and other clients were asking about pricing, I knew I was onto something bigger than just a hobby.
Fast forward to almost two years later, photography and video are not only my passion but also my full-time job. And I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the amazing family I’ve found in the Fashion Industry, from my agents at Kim Dawson, to make up artists, wardrobe stylists, other photographers, and friends.
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?
Not at all. My biggest obstacle at the beginning was facing some oppositions from my family because they didn’t regard this industry as a profession, so I had to prove to them that there was a lot more than the typical stereotype and that I could have a good future here. Other than that, everything else has been a challenge, and I love a good challenge because it has pushed to me to be who I am today emotionally, physically and spiritually. I think that one of the biggest challenges for me at the beginning (and ongoing) is competing with a lot of amazing and talented photographers in the area. Sometimes, I feel at a disadvantage because I might not have the education, knowledge, experience or resources that it takes to remain relevant in the industry. But I always remind myself that it is all part of the process, and regardless of where I stand among the photographers here in Dallas, I’ve been able to accomplish so much and come so far within two years, and it can only get better from here.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I specialize in fashion/beauty photography, video, and retouching. But my photography/video services are not only limited to the fashion industry. I do quite a lot of product photography, senior portraits, lifestyle, headshots, and some real state.
It’s hard speaking for myself, but I believe what sets me apart from other photographers is that I also have the experience in front of the lens. I’ve come to find that the fact that I started as a model, I am able to understand and relate to someone who is being photographed by me, and I can see a picture from both perspectives. I am able to walk someone through a pose and a session and make them feel comfortable and secure of themselves even if it’s their first time in front of a lens.
My biggest accomplishments so far are having my work published in 15 magazines, and receiving tearsheets of my work in Vogue Italia
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
Every day that I get to do this is a proud moment for me, I never thought I would be able to be here today, yet here I am and I don’t take it for granted. Every relationship and friendship that has come through photography and modeling is a proud moment. All my published work and covers in magazines are proud moments. Receiving my first Vogue feature was a big proud moment. And my latest proud moment would be having my own studio.
Pricing:
- Fashion and Beauty Model test shoot – $350 for 3-4 looks
- Headshots (Corporate/ acting/ fashion) $250 for 3 looks
- Retouching Services – Depending on the job it can range from $10-$100
- Video work – Depending on the job $450-$1500
- Senior Portraits – $400 for 4 looks
- Weddings – $1500- $3000
Contact Info:
- Website: www.luismartinezphotography.com
- Phone: 210-461-2687
- Email: luis@luismartinezphotography.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/luis_martinez93/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=659747935
Image Credit:
Bradley Tomberlin (Luis’ Picture)
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