Check Out Gabriel Conover’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriel Conover.

Hi Gabriel, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story? 
I have been a full-time photographer for over 6 years. I primarily did weddings but retired from that in 2022. When covid hit in 2020, I (like everyone else) wasn’t sure how long it would take for weddings to become a thing that was allowed again. So, I decided it was time to expand and start something new. Just in case. I had been considering opening a rentable photo studio for some time because there really just wasn’t anything in San Diego that checked all of my personal boxes. 

And thus, Gud Times was born. I signed the lease in September of 2020 and opened in January of 2021. I had a rough time getting started because to my surprise, weddings came back in full force in 2021, so I wasn’t able to invest as much into the studio as I would have liked to. But now we are thriving. With bookings daily and events all weekend long, I can say I’m very proud of how far we have come. 

Alright, 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?
Absolutely not. Brick and mortar is a whole new ballgame. Dealing with permits, licenses, and all the legal stuff that goes into it is really stressful. You would think that there was a resource that told you exactly what to do. But that doesn’t exist. And even the experts can’t give you clear answers all of the time. The rules were also very gray and unclear with covid restrictions as well. I felt like I was doing everything I was supposed to, but still felt like I was going to get in trouble. 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in branding and editorial photography. I love combining my love for fashion/style with my photography work. The studio has given me endless opportunity in expanding my knowledge and skillset. I love building new sets and come up with new creative projects in the studio. 

What sets me apart from others is really my ability to just try things. I am more than ok with failure. It’s a part of life. But I know that breakthroughs come through trial and error. 

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success is trying. Giving it your all. Success is understanding the need for failure. And success is also knowing that my family is going to be ok. That my kids are living thriving lives. That my wife and I are prioritizing each other. That we celebrate each other’s goals. 

Pricing:

• Photo studio rental: $100 an hour (weekdays), $125 an hour (weekends)
• Event Rental: $125 an hour (weekdays), $150 an hour (weekends)
• $500 hourly photo rate for weekdays ($750 on weekends)

Contact Info:

• Website: www.gud-times.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/gudtimes.sd