We’re looking forward to introducing you to angel vasquez. Check out our conversation below.
angel, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
The one thing that makes me lose track of time is when I’m working with my camera and directing my subjects. Nothing exists outside that present moment. I get in this zone and I don’t reside in my body. I don’t feel hunger or pain and personal issues suddenly are non existent. The moment the production is over, I return to my body and often discover I’m tired, thirsty and my feet hurt. It’s not a complaint and more of an observation.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I got into photography after the untimely death of my father when I was 17. I remember it was the pictures that allowed me to connect with him and recall specific time periods in our lives. From that, I started encouraging people to take pictures and forget about all the societal critiques that have been forced upon us. I specifically speak to women and remind them that regardless of how bad they THINK they look, they should truly learn to appreciate themselves at any age, because well, it only gets worse. (I kid!)
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a young adult figuring out my role in the world, I believed that if I hadn’t reached my goals, found my passion, or been well on my way to some undefined marker of success, that it would never happen. What a total scam! at 33 I put it out into the universe that I wanted to escape my full time cubicle job and be a full time photographer. I took photography classes. Found a mentor. Went on countless shooting exhibitions with friends and did a TON of free work for friends and family. Any money I made from gigs went right back into purchasing more equipment It wasn’t until my 40’s that I got laid off and the fight was on. It was beyond scary not to have that regular paycheck showing up every 2 weeks. I dug in my heels and vowed to give it everything I had.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Fear itself ruled much of my decision making throughout my life and after surviving and escaping an abusive relationship, I promised myself that I would no longer allow fear to dictate my world. I vowed to live. Truly live and make the most of my 2nd chance in life. I agreed to take risks and allow the chips to fall where they may.
The Cocktail Portal is something that happened for me and helped propelled me into a beautiful life. Sometimes some of our darkest moments are our greatest teachers that catapult us into a better version of ourselves.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I serve on the board for WITI Group which is an organization that supports women in the industry. It’s an organization of women that mentor and can support with emergency funds and scholarships. I love this group of incredible women that network and foster some incredible friendships across the country.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I think being a full time photographer is what I was born to do. I have always been fascinated by people and their stories of survival. My camera becomes the catalyst and an excuse to get to know people on a deeper level.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecocktailportal/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCocktailPortal
Image Credits
All works are my own.
