Today we’d like to introduce you to Victor Greenwood.
Hi Victor, 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’ve always loved taking pictures since I was young, but I never imagined it would lead me to where I am today. I can trace the true beginning of my photography journey back to March 24, 2020 the day I was sent home from work due to COVID19 and the world seemingly came to a halt. Like everyone else, I had no idea what was coming next.
With so much of the world shut down, hiking became one of the only safe and accessible activities left. I spent most of my free time on the trails. One day, while hiking our usual route in the San Fernando Valley with my childhood friend Tim, we stopped on the side of the mountain to take in the view of the entire valley. At that moment, I decided to buy a camera. I just wanted to take better pictures while I was out hiking.
That night, I went home and started researching cameras. At the same time, I was debating whether to buy a PlayStation or Xbox to help pass the time. But something in me didn’t want to just sit around playing video games. I didn’t want to “waste” this unexpected time at home. I wanted to come out of COVID with a new skill, something that could be beneficial for my career.
Fast forward to May 25, 2020 the day the video of George Floyd circulated around the world. A protest was scheduled in Los Angeles, and it was the first one I had ever attended. I brought my camera with me, and the rest is history.
I was suddenly immersed in the protest scene in Los Angeles, documenting demonstrations across the city almost daily for months. Taking photos in that environment not only pushed me to improve quickly, but also gave my work a sense of purpose. I was capturing history in real time. I was taking hundreds of photos a day and learning constantly on the go.
It’s wild to think that I originally bought my camera just to capture scenic moments while hiking. None of this was planned. But as time went on, more people began to recognize my work. I started receiving compliments and encouragement from people who resonated with my photos.
Eventually, I branched out into doing photo shoots, weddings, baby showers, birthday shoots, and more. Then, all the photos I had taken culminated in a moment I’ll never forget: I was encouraged to enter one of my images into the Orange County Fair.
And to my surprise on my very first try I was selected to have my photo exhibited at the fair.
I had to drop off my framed photo at the fairgrounds before the event opened, and that’s when I met one of the judges. They mentioned how incredibly tough it is to get accepted on your first attempt. When the other artists nearby heard that, everyone started looking over to see my photo. That moment, hearing a judge validate my work, was such a proud and surreal experience.
When the fair officially opened, I returned and found my photo hanging on the wall with a ribbon on it: “Honorable Mention.” In my very first competition ever, I was awarded an honorable mention and it felt amazing. When I saw my photo on the wall at the OC Fair, I felt so proud—it was surreal. I had to shout out where I’m from: North Hills, in the Valley! Representing my hometown in that space made the moment even more special.
A few months later, I entered the same photo into the LA County Fair and this time, I won 3rd place.
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?
It’s hard to say it’s been a rough road, mainly because none of this was supposed to happen. I never planned on becoming a photographer what started as a way to take better pictures while hiking has grown into something much bigger than I ever expected.
That said, one of the biggest challenges has been how expensive photography can be once you really get into it. It’s a fun and rewarding hobby, but also a costly one. Between gear, editing software, printing, and everything else that comes with leveling up, it can definitely add up.
But I’ve enjoyed every step of the journey. Even the learning curves and investment have been worth it, because this has become something I truly love. Every photo I take is part of that growth.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I get asked this question all the time “What do you specialize in?” and honestly, my answer is always the same: I just love taking photos. It’s not about fitting into one specific category for me. If I had to say I specialize in anything, it would be capturing the Kodak moments those genuine, fleeting moments of joy, emotion, and connection that live on forever through a photograph.
Whether it’s two people smiling at just the right time, a quiet look shared between loved ones, or a powerful moment during a protest, I live for those shots that hold emotion. Each photo tells its own story and holds a memory that means something to someone.
What I’m most proud of is that my work has meaning. I didn’t get into photography for recognition or awards I just wanted to document what I saw and felt. And to now have people connect with my images, see them exhibited, and even win awards along the way it’s surreal.
What sets me apart is that I shoot with heart. I’m not just snapping pictures I’m trying to freeze a feeling.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My biggest advice for anyone just starting out is: don’t be afraid to just start. Don’t get caught up in having the perfect gear, the perfect aesthetic, or the right color grading. None of that matters in the beginning.
Just go out, take photos, and enjoy the process.
The more you shoot, the more you’ll learn. You’ll naturally get better at capturing moments, your editing will improve, and your eye will develop over time. But none of that happens unless you start. So don’t overthink it just start creating, and the rest will follow.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sincerelyvicphotography.mypixieset.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vic_gwooooddd
