Open Submissions: Roberto DeLaCruz
Open Submissions: Roberto DeLaCruz, Photographer.
Q. How was your first encounter with photography?
A. I first got into photography when I would go with my mom to develop her disposable cameras at Costco, I was maybe 6 or 7. She would let me take some of the photos so I loved seeing how they came out. She eventually bought me my very own 35mm that was shaped like Pikachu. I started picking up the camera in a more professional sense when I found an affordable set of strobe lights at a small camera shop. I bought them to teach myself how to use them and things just took off.
Ashley Karah is wearing the Galena Pump
Q. What do you like the most about being a photographer?
A. I love being able to capture people in a different perspective than they are used to. Seeing them react to their own photos brings me a lot of joy.
Q. How would you describe your style of photography?
A. I would say my style is very minimal and understated. I find beauty in a simple setup.
Ashley Karah is wearing the Keaton Pump
Q. What makes a picture stand out?
A. The narrative of a photo is what makes it stand out. You can have an extravagant photo with no story and it will fall flat. It doesn’t matter how much you produce a shot if you don’t have a story behind it.
Q. Do you think being a photographer changed other aspects in your life? Why?
A. Yes, I catch myself studying people and objects way more than I should. To be a photographer you have to have an eye for composition and this seeps into every aspect of life. The way plants are gathered to the way I organize my utensils in my drawer are subject to my scrutinizing eye.
Q. What’s the inspiration behind this beautiful shoot?
A. The stylist and I were trying to emulate a museum unveiling their new masterpieces for the first time.
Q. What’s your ultimate goal as a photographer?
A. To continue to grow and develop, you’re never done learniong! Also having a coffee table book with my images would be amazing!
Q. We live in a technological era where everybody has access to a camera, what sets apart a photographer from a camera user?
A. Having a vision. Anybody can push a button on a camera, not everyone can have a creative vision.
Q. How do you connect with Bruno Magli and what do you like about it?
A. I have an affinity for well made, leather goods (mainly bags), so naturally I have an instant appreciation for Bruno Magli.
Q. Do you have a favorite Bruno Magli shoe style? If so, why is it your favorite?
A. The Angiolini, it’s such a versatile style that can be dressed up or down!
Q. How would you describe your personal style?
A. I have very eclectic style, but I would summarize it as casual “professional”. I like mixing some nice trousers with a hoodie or tee plus some Bruno Magli shoes of course.
Q. Do you think owning your personal style influences the way you perform? Why?
A. Not necessarily. I like to keep an open mind and leave room for adjustment, I like to incorporate other people’s input whether it's the photo assistant or the model. I embrace my style but I mainly let others influence my direction. You get a richer result when your team is also into the idea. But you have to maintain control of course, and ultimately edit ideas to remain true to your original vision.
Ashley Karah is wearing the Galena Pump
Q. Do you have words of inspiration for new creatives?
A. Be patient, go easy on yourself, be comfortable with messing up. Chances are you will never get anything perfect, so just do the best you can at the moment and don’t hold onto each project so dearly. Treat them as individual bricks that bring you closer to where you want to be, one step at a time.