Check Out Andrew Fabela’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrew Fabela.

Hi Andrew, 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?
I started doing photography back in early 2022 when my father gave me his old digital camera. Using what he gave me and what he taught me, I began taking pictures of friends and family. In the summer of 2022, I would bring my camera to local city candidate rallies and campaign events to take pictures of the events. I gained the attention of the candidates and they asked if I could take pictures that they could potentially use for social media, campaign website photographs and for other purposes.

Soon after that election season, I met a few models and actors/actresses and began photographing them and taking their portraits for them to use. This is where, in my opinion, it began to take off for me. I now work with many models ranging from amateur to professional who have walked in many fashion shows local and nationwide! These events have led me to attend fashion shows, walking the red carpet and seeing the models I’ve photographed walk on the runway. Most recently, being the 2023 LA Fashion Week Festival. I’m so grateful for the people who I’ve met over the past year and I truly value each and every one of them.

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?
I have hit some roadblocks along the way on my journey but I’ve learned from those mistakes and have grown from them. When I was first starting out, I made the worst mistake any photographer could do; not recognizing my value and doing work for free. I was 17 at the time, and I really had no firm concept of how my work could generate income. But, as time progressed, I learned from those events. I can earn a decent income from doing something that I love and am passionate about.

Another struggle was finding clientele. Every so often I’d have a client reach out to inquire about photography services but often times it wouldn’t result in a booking. I have to learn to be patient and be confident in what I can bring to any booking. I’ve been blessed with guidance from my wonderful parents who have continually lifted me up throughout my journey as a photographer. They still support me to this day, for which I am forever grateful.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I mainly do portrait photography, as well as fashion photography. I really like being able to express my creativity through photography. I enjoy when I can collaborate with other creative people. Being able to photograph people makes me happy. But I get the most joy from seeing them happy with the results. Many in my community know me for doing portrait photography, especially for models and actors. My proudest moment thus far was doing an editorial photoshoot for actress Molly Jackson. I met Molly last summer, and we have since become good friends. Every photoshoot that I do gives me a sense of pride. I can sense my confidence growing with each project and that makes me truly happy.

Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I am a firm believer that taking a risk can potentially grant you a reward. Since I am just starting out in my career, the only major risk that I have taken has been spending large amounts of money on camera equipment. Lenses are NOT cheap!

Pricing:

• Portraiture | For personal use – Starts at $250+ (Studio pricing will vary.)
• Branding | Headshots for business or professional use – $400
• Editorial | Creative portraiture for publishing – Starts at $400
• Events | Concerts, public events, weddings – $250/hr
• Music | Photography for album art, music video coverage and for other purposes – Starting at $350

Contact Info:

• Website: www.andrewfabelaphoto.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrew.fabela
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrewfabela