Today we’d like to introduce you to Francisco Ortiz.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Growing up in the dying days of the analog era, we couldn’t afford internet. Most of my things were second hand, my dad collected scrap metal for a living and I found out early that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. I grew up taking apart old radios and cameras and putting them back together, I was always intrigued with the hands on approach. My first film DSLR was a second-hand camera my dad found or bought from someone, and it just took me back to going on trips with friends and family and grabbing disposable cameras to have keepsakes of those memories. Photography is a way for me to capture a split second of time; the essence of a moment. Besides photography, I enjoyed drawing and just being creative in general. I even learned to sew from my mom when I decided I wanted to make clothes for my stuffed cat “Noodles” lol. As long as I stay creative and am able to produce quality products, I’ll keep creating. #marathonsnotsprints
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It’s been a learning experience, to say the least, but nothing great comes easy. You make your mistakes along the way and avoid doing them again, learning to work smarter and not harder. Two struggles for me were Inexperience and Doubt because, If you doubt you can do its you will always fail and if you don’t try, you will never gain experience. Nike said it best, “Just Do It.”
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about The Overall – what should we know?
It started with photography. My favorite photography is concert and portraiture photography. Then I transitioned to creating videos with friends that make music or art. Most recently, I’ve started to put my drawings on shirts and hats. I try to stay busy, no excuse just produce. I’m most proud of the images I create. It all comes down to where you’re standing and timing that click just right. I don’t compare myself to others, as long as I stay busy and keep creating, my work will speak for itself overall.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
The Overall has and will always be a team effort at its core. My first run of shirts was done on a loan from a good friend, he pushed me to just do it and gave me no excuses when he fronted the cash for the shirts and printing. My friends are the ones that pushed me to pick up a camera and photograph my first love, music. And I do it for everyone I love, not for me. So my family and friends deserve all the credit, God bless them.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @scla47
- Facebook: @fortizfoto
- Twitter: @ciskzilla
- Other: @itstheoverall
Image Credit:
Francisco Ortiz
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