Life & Work with Fernando Guerrero

Today we’d like to introduce you to Fernando Guerrero.

Hi Fernando, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m a Southern California-based photographer who focuses on capturing the dynamic energy of the performing arts. Sparked by one of my first jobs at House of Blues, Guerrero Photo’s photography career took off in 2005 when I began shooting live performances by local bands in Los Angeles and Orange County. In my images, I seek to convey both the glamor and the raw edginess of my subjects – both in live performance and backstage. “Witnessing not only the magic that happens on stage but also what comes before and after a performance, has helped me create the insightful portraits of musicians, dancers and other performers, both onstage and off, that I am best known for.” I earned my BFA from the Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, California.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Being a proud first-generation Mexican American. Being a gay man. Born and raised in Orange County, while being gay and a first-generation Latino was clearly not an easy roadmap. With time and perseverance, you’ll be surprised what the universe has in store for you. My father was a gardener and my mother a childcare provider, no one in my family had any connections to the arts or the industry whatsoever. Thus, I never dreamed of considering the possibility of becoming an artist and had no idea how to start. Should I venture into film and photography? Should I move to New York or stay near LA? I started photography at the age of 19, literally from the ground up.

Now my biggest obstacles are being creative and doing shoots while having to juggle and understand the legal aspects of the business. Everything from contracts and bidding to licensing and copyright etc. I can’t wait to be able to afford a full-time assistant to handle the business side so I can focus more on the creative.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I love taking portraits, especially of another artist. The more unique and creative the subject, the more fun that shoot becomes. I love when my photos can provide any form of entertainment, be fun and campy and make someone smile – a reminder to not take life too seriously. Other times I feel my work needs to be dark to make one feel uncomfortable because life can be dark. Our society and culture are dealing with serious issues from addiction (especially with social media) to democracy and misinformation, and all the repairs that need to take place to fix our climate crisis. So, it’s unrealistic to be happy all the time. Having contrast in my work is very important. My partner, James Bryan, is a makeup artist and plays a huge role in the overall collaboration.

We are now shifting into shooting more gay men, for gay men (and ladies too). With our background shooting female pinup and burlesque, we are adding our look and style to men. This will be our next artistic series and a way to celebrate LGBTQ liberation. When Florida started with “Don’t say gay” we immediately decided to photograph more gay men with our campy, cute, sexy and fun style of photography. From Drag queens and go-go boys to gay male models, we are excited to share these photos and themes in 2o23. Also, because I have a background with traditional portraits, we are booking more gay couples and LGBTQ families in Southern California. If interested in working with us, please email and we be happy to provide our conceptual and editorial look that couples and families will cherish forever. What better way to highlight the LGBTQ community than with professional photography, direction and lighting.

How do you define success?
Having goals and achieving them. Living within one’s needs and living a lifestyle that they can be proud of. Treating others with respect and kindness while remaining professional and not get taken advantage of. All while having a healthy relationship with friends and family. Being happy with yourself, your work and what you as an artist bring to the table.

Pricing:

• Gay couples packages start $750
• Male Boudoir Sessions: $1,000
• LGBTQ Families: starting $500
• Artist Promo Content: starting $500

Contact Info:

• Website: guerrerophotos.com
• Instagram: @guerrerophotos_
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FernandoGuerreroPhotos/
• Linkedin: fernando-guerrero-photos
• Twitter: @GuerreroPhotos
• Other: https://guerrero-photos.myshopify.com

Image Credits
All photographs © Fernando Guerrero