Today we’d like to introduce you to Johnny Nguyen.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I first picked up a camera at 15 and didn’t put much thought into it at the time. It’s just clicking a button right? Sounds simple enough to me. I would rather just take in the moment then tarnish it by taking a picture. Around that time, my siblings and I always enjoyed going out and exploring new places like art museums in LA, going to concerts and music festivals, visiting worthwhile sights. Being able to step out of your comfort zone and explore different things lets you appreciate the little details that make life more exciting and beautiful. During these moments, there was always a camera involved to treasure it. That’s when I realized photography more than just clicking a button.
I started doing my own photoshoots whenever I would explore different places or hangout with family and friends. I would go outside and take pictures of whatever I thought was interesting. The more we went ventured out, the more I fell in love with photography. I started creating my own photoshoots with friends and connecting with other people. It was during these photoshoots that I really got to understand my vision. Bringing a camera wherever I go was essential to my everyday carry. I used that camera so much to the point where my sister couldn’t even use it. I spent hours at home taking pictures of random things and watching countless YouTube videos about photography. I was driven to follow my vision even though I didn’t have the most expensive camera or the best editing software to begin with. I was able to work with whatever I had and go with the flow. Being able to hangout and connect with other people was what motivated me to become a photographer.
When I was 16, I started an Instagram account for my photography and went by the name “cutakesphotos”. (Cu is a Vietnamese nickname given to me by my parents) At first, I started that account just for fun, but then people started following me and acknowledged my work. I soon had many people come up asking me to go on photoshoots and by the end of the week, I was completely booked. The idea of turning your hobby into a job was always a dream of mine. I wanted to be able to wake up and do the thing that I love while also getting paid for it. So around late 2018, that’s when I took my photography seriously. From then on, I was able to meet so many new friends and connect with talented creatives that helped me get to where I am today. Eventually, I was able to invest in better editing programs and purchase my very own camera! Till this day, I’m still trying to perfect my craft and practice the hobby I fell in love with when I was 15. My camera has gave me many opportunities to shoot for concerts, weddings, events, travel to new destinations, and work with very talented people who are also pursuing their passion. I can’t wait to see where it will take me next.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Starting your passion at such a young age comes with pros and cons. I’ve had clients turn me down because I was too young, I didn’t have the credibility, I didn’t have a “professional” camera, or because I didn’t have at least 2+ years of experience. Although I missed many opportunities because of my disadvantages, I didn’t let these reasons stop me from reaching my passion. Being a young creative was really hard for me starting out and it definitely wasn’t a smooth road. But because of my work, I have met numerous of creatives with the same problems and struggles as me. There are countless of creators who are undervalued and who should be appreciated more for their work. Having these people around me gives me motivation to keep moving forward. Hard work plays a huge role for everything, and I believe if you truly manifest your dream, it will come to you.
Please tell us about Cutakesphotos.
I am a self-taught freelance photographer based in Southern California. I specialize in taking portraits for models but I am also capable of other types of photo work like weddings, product shots, and events. I’m not afraid to try new things and I’m well equip for any other kind of service ranging from music videos, editorials, car photography, event photography, concerts, and many more! What sets me apart from others is my ability to finish a client’s work quickly as well as providing the best service you could possibly ask for.
As for the future, I plan on starting a business with a couple of very good friends that I’ve met through our shared passion and drive for photography/videography. We plan on creating our own collective of skillful videographers and photographers to provide high-quality video work and professional grade photography for our clients while also putting our own twist into it too. We want to create a company that’s not only for ourselves but for the creative community as well. It’s still in the process of development however we are very excited for what’s to come.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Sure, it would be nice to start all over again and do a couple of things differently. I definitely would’ve told myself to choose a different name for my business. However, I believe everything happens for a reason and this is the life that you’re meant to be in. If I already knew the steps to be successful, I believe it would take away the excitement from discovering the process.
Pricing:
- Photoshoots begin at $75 for a full session
- Weddings begin at $999-$2000 depending on offer
- Events (debuts, birthday parties, quinceaneras) begin at $799-$1800 depending on offer
- Prom/Graduation/etc. begin at $79 for full session (prices may vary for group)
Contact Info:
- Website: cutakesphotos.com
- Phone: 9495213246
- Email: cu.takes.photos@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cutakesphotos/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/cutakesphotos
Image Credit:
David Gido Park, Tyler Xu, Lauren Lim, Justin Ito, Rachel Dang, Isabella Rose, Steph Jang, Mckenna Mobley, Gianne Veluz
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