Today we’d like to introduce you to Israel Castillo.
Hi Israel, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My photo journey started in my late teens when my friends and I were skateboarding. Before I even had a camera, I’d watch skate videos on our VCR and pause them mid-trick, imagining I was taking the photo myself. One Christmas I finally got a camera, and I’ve been hooked ever since. When I wasn’t skating, I was photographing my friends skating or just hanging out. There were stretches when I wasn’t shooting as much as I wanted, but I always kept a camera close. Looking back, being persistent and pushing through the tough times has shaped who I am today and continues to guide where I’m headed next.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I went to Brooks Institute of Photography in 2003 and graduated in 2006. Those years were a big learning experience — I was surrounded by really talented people, and we pushed each other to grow. I learned a lot and made lifelong friends. After graduation, though, the industry was shifting fast, and photo jobs were tough to find. Like a lot of people, I had to figure out how to keep going — finding work to pay the bills while still creating on my own terms. There were times I questioned the path, but staying consistent and continuing to shoot, even just for myself, helped me stay connected to what I love doing.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a photographer specializing in documentary and lifestyle work. Right now, I’m focused on two projects I’m really proud of.
Portraits on Kettner (@iz_not_is on Instagram) is a series I’ve been working on for the past six years. I use a medium format film camera, which helps me slow down and gives the portraits a distinct look and feel. What started as asking a friend to stand in the street for a quick portrait has grown into over 400 people. I work at Chrome Digital and have had the chance to photograph many of our talented clients on Kettner Blvd — a busy street that runs through Little Italy into Downtown. One of my favorite parts of the project is getting to talk with each person while we wait for traffic to clear; there’s always a few minutes between lights. I never imagined it would grow the way it has. Even though Chrome has since moved to Logan Heights, I’m still continuing the series at a slower pace. It feels like it’s nearing its end, but I have a short list of about twenty more people I’d like to add before turning it into a book.
My other project, Among the Supporters (@amongthesupporters), documents the inaugural season of San Diego FC. I’ve been photographing the fans, community, and culture inside and outside Snapdragon Stadium. Match days usually start in the parking lots, where I walk around taking portraits of fans using the same medium format film camera — it’s a great icebreaker and adds a timeless quality to the images. Once inside, I move through the supporters section, La Frontera, where the energy is always electric, and then around the stadium to capture the full atmosphere. This project has been incredibly fulfilling and reminds me how much I love documenting people and the communities that bring them together.
How do you define success?
I define success as having the time, energy, and health to handle your day-to-day life. For me, it’s as simple as being there for my kids — showing up for school events, functions, or award ceremonies. Being present for those moments means more to me than anything else. Having that balance and time with family keeps me grounded and gives me the perspective I need to stay creative in my work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://israelcastillo.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iz_not_is/?hl=en
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/amongthesupporters/?hl=en
Image Credits
Stacey Millett (Featured photo)
