Today we’d like to introduce you to Alex Garbero.
Hi Alex, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Photography has always been a part of my life, thanks to my abuelito (grandfather), who was the family’s go-to photographer. During family gatherings, he would always have his camera in hand, capturing moments that would become cherished memories. It wasn’t long before he handed me the camera, encouraging my curiosity. I would eagerly snap pictures of everything around me—our family, pets, and the beauty of our surroundings. It was through these experiences that I discovered my passion for photography.
As I grew older, this passion only deepened. College was a pivotal time for me, as it was there that my love for photography truly blossomed. In 2020, I took the leap and founded Garbero Media, marking the beginning of a new chapter. Armed with my first camera, a Canon M50II, I dedicated myself to mastering the art of photography. I studied everything I could—techniques, the dos and don’ts—and most importantly, I got out there and shot as often as I could. My passion for cars naturally intertwined with photography, leading me to car meets where I captured dynamic images that honed my skills.
As I continued to shoot, my network began to grow. Friends, family, and even friends of friends started reaching out for photoshoots. I found myself photographing a diverse range of subjects—graduations, wedding receptions, cars, business portraits, family moments, and brand imagery. Each opportunity allowed Garbero Media to grow steadily.
Over the years, my connections expanded, and I began to explore videography. This led me to my current go-to camera, the Lumix S5II. Today, I’m proud to offer both photography and videography services to a wide array of clients. It’s amazing to reflect on how a small hobby, inspired by my abuelito, has evolved into a thriving business that continues to shape my life.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey to where I am now has certainly had its challenges. One of the biggest learning curves was figuring out how to price my services appropriately. Early on, I often found myself underestimating the value of my work, which made it difficult to sustain my business. Over time, I learned how to better gauge the worth of my skills and the time invested in each project, ensuring that both my clients and I were getting a fair deal.
Interacting with clients was another area where I faced some struggles. Understanding how to communicate effectively, set clear expectations, and manage the relationship throughout the process was something that took time to develop. I realized the importance of being transparent and professional while also being adaptable to each client’s unique needs.
Another challenge has been preparing for the unexpected—whether it’s technical issues, weather conditions, or last-minute changes in a shoot. I quickly learned the value of having contingency plans in place, but even then, not everything can be anticipated. Learning to adapt on the fly has been crucial.
Contracts were also a hurdle in the beginning. Crafting agreements that protect both my clients and myself took a lot of trial and error. I spent a good deal of time refining these documents to ensure that they clearly outlined the scope of work, deliverables, and payment terms, helping to prevent misunderstandings down the line.
There have also been times when I’ve looked at the photos from a shoot and felt like I could have done better. It’s easy to be your own harshest critic, but I’ve come to understand that the best shots often come from unplanned or even accidental moments. This realization has taught me to embrace spontaneity and to trust my instincts during shoots.
In the end, these challenges have shaped me into a more resilient and resourceful photographer and videographer. The road hasn’t always been smooth, but each bump along the way has been a learning experience, helping me to grow both personally and professionally.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m incredibly proud of the diversity in my work. While I often collaborate with people on various projects, my portfolio also showcases a wide range of subjects, including cars, landscapes, and products. This versatility allows me to adapt to different styles and client needs, ensuring that each project is unique and tailored to the vision at hand.
What sets me apart is my outgoing personality and ease of collaboration. I strive to create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere during shoots, making sure my clients feel comfortable and have fun. This approach not only helps in capturing authentic moments but also ensures that the entire experience is positive and memorable for everyone involved.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I convinced two of my friends to venture into the world of photography, and they now make money as photographers!
In addition to photography and videography, I’m also a software engineer. I work as a full-stack web developer, enjoying the process of creating helpful tools with just my laptop. It’s a nice blend of creativity and technology, allowing me to approach projects from both artistic and technical perspectives.
Pricing:
- Portraits: $100-$200
- Car Shoot: $150-$250
- I’ll be selling prints of my landscape and car photography soon!
Contact Info:
- Website: garberomedia.com
- Instagram: garberomedia
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-garbero-a8356b177/
Image Credits
All images were taken and are owned by me.
