Today we’d like to introduce you to Antonio Croft.
Antonio, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started with photography when I was 20 years old. I joined the Military and traveled overseas. It was there I decided to get a Nikon point and shoot camera, and the rest was history. I took pictures of everything from landscape to portraits. Mainly, it was all tourist photography.
After I left the Military in 2009, I decided to take photography seriously and joined some of the local Meetup groups. At this point, photography was an everyday process. If I was not out taking pictures, I was online looking at videos. I’m always looking at how can I make my images better.
First, I dabbled with landscape photography. I started with workshops and some one on one training. For some reason, Landscapes just didn’t do it. I would produce some really good prints, but I felt something was missing.
One of the Meetup groups had a workshop on Portrait Photography. The guest Instructor was Hernan Rodriguez who was Ex-Boxing Champ Evander Holyfield’s personal photographer. That workshop changed my whole outlook on photography.
One of the topics was how to interact with the client. To make an image work, you have to have some type of connection with the client. It will show in your image either way. From there, after the meetup groups, I transitioned to the local photography clubs.
I think being around like-minded professionals was the push I needed. Along with my personal photography, I’m also the Vice President of the San Diego Portrait Club. The club provides workshops and photo shoots monthly to its members. It’s a way to learn and practice your skills.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I’ve run into so many roadblocks. I think finding my niche was the hardest. Starting with landscape, and then I went to street photography. During that timeframe, I created some really great images, but once again I felt something was not there.
Also, in the beginning, was never satisfied with the gear I had. I always felt like I needed the new gadget. Another photographer said we have the gear, we just have to make it work with what we have. Through all the struggles I learned never give up on your dreams and remember to have fun.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Focused-Pro – what should we know?
Well, I’m a Professional Photographer that specializes in Headshots and Portraits. What sets my business a part from others is flexibility and professionalism. I take pride in being prompt and providing the client with the best results possible.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My wife plays a major role in my success. She always encourages me to be different and shoot outside the box. Also, Dan Graham Photography is the President of the San Diego Portrait Club and is a big mentor. I can call or text him any time with a question, and he will always get back with an answer. Arlisa Lenn Photography is someone that I’ve trained and practice with for years. We share different ideas and techniques. She is someone that I can go to for constructive criticism.
Lastly, the meetup group that taught me a lot about Studio Photography was Shut Up and Shoot Raw.
I learned a long time ago that you should surround yourself with photographers that share or exceed your passion.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.focused-pro.com
- Phone: 619-560-9506
- Email: focusedprofoto@gmail.com
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