For those unfamiliar with you, please introduce yourself:
Hello my name is Nando Esparza and I’m a Portrait photographer based in Tucson, AZ.
Where are you originally from?
I’m originally from Deming, New Mexico. A very small town that had 2 stops lights. Filled with chile and tumble weeds. To help paint a little picture.
Has the change in the economy affected your profession?
It definitely has affected me in the sense that most people are now working 2 jobs. Some are even going to school on top of that. It has forced me from renting space to converting personal space into a studio. All for the ability to maximize my time better, not only for me but the models as well. Companies are now cutting budgets on projects. I think its also forced people into being multi-dimensional. Not only being a MUA but a hairstylist as well. Some cases I’ve known the photographer to be all three. Altogether I feel it’s really made people step their game up with marketing, branding, and the hustle.
Out of all the subjects who you have captured over the years, do you recall a specific individual who came across as the fiercest and most powerful to you?
Yes actually a young lady who I recently shot with. Prior to the shoot we had met to discuss the upcoming shoot. She had been very shy and soft spoken even on the day of the shoot. Once the lights were on and things got underway she completely transformed. Seeing either side you wouldn’t have known one from the other.
What inspires you in a daily pursuit of life?
Being Positive. Positive attitude, along with a positive outlook on life and way of living, also surrounding myself with the right people is key. It’s important that at the end of everyday I am able to be able to say that “Every day’s a holiday to me, a celebration of life. And these few day’s I’ll cherish, and do my best to keep it alive”.
Top 5 songs on your playlist?
The Roots- The Next Movement,
Q-tip-Life Is Better,
N.E.R.D-Babydoll,
Black Lips-Veni Vidi Vici,
Lucero-California
How important do you feel photographers are to culture?
I feel photographers have a vital role in culture as a whole. They not only capture trends, styles, and alternative ways of life. They leave us an archive to reference and take from along with leaving their own stamp of originality. Having a visual archive helps old and new photographers better themselves which is always beneficial for all who view it.
Favorite places, cities, retreats?
I enjoy time at home or out to dinner with close friends who are like family. Cities I would have to say San Francisco for the art community, shopping and overall vibe. It’s a good place to stay on top of what’s going on in today’s world but it’s also important to slow things down. San Clemente is where my family goes to relax and detach ourselves from all the things that distract us. It always brings us back to what really holds purpose in our lives which is each other.
What books are you currently reading?
I’m not much of the book reading type but I do have an amazing amount of fashion magazines. That always seems to be scattered around the house.
What new projects are you building on right now?
I’m wrapping up the details and look to start shooting this March. It’s looking to become a coffee table, fine art book. It’s a story about a young man and the woman he has encountered over the years. It’s a very moody and deep with contrast. As each story is told you will learn the make up and details of that relationship. Casting is always open, but if any females are interested in working on this piece specifically and are in the AZ or Vegas area feel free to contact me.
What’s the most memorable moment of your career thus far?
Not really a particular moment but having my work being well received.
What super hero powers do you wish you had?
I would have to say speed like the flash. You can just get more things done and as we all know speed kills.
If you could interview someone else, who and why?
Photographer Patrick Hoelck. I’m a huge admirer of his work. I would ask questions on his creative process and shooting approach.
Define success?
Being who I am and ultimately being able to look in the mirror and know that I gave one hundred percent in everything that I did along with staying true to myself.
Visit Nando Esparza website here.
