Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexia Abarca
Hi Alexia , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started off by being friends with bands online. With no sense of how the music industry and photo world collided, a local LA band took a chance on me and let me come out to one of their show dates and take pictures. That’s where everything began. I started working for DIY publications and noticing the disparities between marginalized groups and space in the music industry for opportunity and growth. That’s when I decided to make my own publication, Punkaganda Press.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There have been a series of people throughout the years not understanding why we need to specify what groups we set out to help with our magazines journey, which has been extremely challenging. It adds to the erasure of these communities and opportunities for them. For me personally, there has always been this struggle of not feeling good enough for hire. I went on my first tour and no one talks about your mental health when you’re on the road and back home. It’s kinda of quiet now in terms of work, and i’ve been itching to go back on the road.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in concert photography, but am versatile in all different aspects. I’ve been practicing in various genres of photography for years now. I am known most for my work and ownership of my publication, Punkaganda Press. This is definitely one of the best achievements i’ve ever had. Creating opportunities for those who are struggling to get that “break” in the music industry is so rewarding. It makes me feel like I can do anything. Another big achievement of mine actually happened last year and that was going on my first tour with Honey Revenge. I was fresh out of college and I toured the U.S. with just a suitcase full of clothes 4 days before they were supposed to leave no questions asked. Definitely one of the wildest things i’ve done, but i’d do it again in a heartbeat. Art is subjective but i feel that the way I edit is what sets me apart from others. I have a versatile way of editing because I just edit how a band makes me feel.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Louis Watson, my co-founder of Punkaganda deserves the same amount of credit. He has gone through so much and the fact that 4 years later we’re still chugging along with Punkaganda and trying to come up with new ways to expand our reach and this man has not had a burn out since is beyond me. Amazing person, glad he’s my business partner. In addition, I owe a lot of credit to Devin from Honey Revenge. I’ve known Devin for years, and she took a chance on me with literally no touring experience and it’s the most fun i’ve ever had, Love her. And finally my Boyfriend, Logan. He always pushes me to keep going even when I feel like giving up and I will always admire his drive and strength in his own life while simultaneously supporting me. He’s the biggest support system in my life and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I love him with my whole heart.
Pricing:
- Day Rate: $300
- Touring Rate: $600-$800 + per diems
- Punkaganda Features: FREE!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cemeterywedding.squarespace.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/_cemeterywedding
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/cemeterywedding
Image Credits
Alexia Abarca – Cemeterywedding
