Check Out Vincent Franco’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Vincent Franco.

Vincent, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The start of my story could probably be pinpointed to me coming across zines made by a friend of my brothers. At the time I had to be at least 16-17 and something about seeing a handmade photozine filled with photos of local punk bands, kids simply hanging out and the debauchery thats stems from either of those flicked a switch in my brain. Shortly after this I got my hands on my first ever Olympus point and shoot and haven’t left home without some kind of camera since. To this day I find myself referring back to those kinds of photos in my head whenever I create an image. I try and find the balance between my own artistic integrity and overall tangibility of my photos and zines. I want folks to look at my work and appreciated the work I put into them, but also be reminded that they can also create something similar or even better just by simply picking up a camera and pointing it at their friends.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it has not. Between the rising cost of film and my insecurities this road always seems to has it bumps. Although my love for physical media, like photography and zine making stumps any kind of hardship it takes to get my end goal. Whatever that goal may be.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a photographer, writer and zine maker. I have a B.A. in journalism from the University of La Verne but the last couple years I have dedicated my time to my passions, that being zine making and photography. If I would be known for anything it would be mostly zine making. I have heard my photos been called “raw” but I just see them as an observation of the world around me. They’re nothing crazy, most people can take the same photos, they would just have to be able to recognize the moments to do so. I enjoy a nice life even when I’m the butt of the joke and I love to think that you can see that in my work as well.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
More photos! Maybe I’ll even start getting money for my photographs but for now I’m just doing me.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @HUGYRSELF