Meet Ana Lucía Garduño | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ana Lucía Garduño and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ana Lucía, what inspires you?
Every day, I am inspired by my passion for what I do. I believe in genuine conversation, open hearts, and lots of laughing. Portrait feelings into images to tell a tale about your identity, your love, and the moment you want to remember forever. I truly believe that recording love and life stories is the most beautiful job there is, and I consider myself extremely privileged to work closely with clients who allow me into such a personal and emotional period in their lives.

I believe that inspiration may come from anyplace, but when you are curious, even about the most basic things, they can start to seem extraordinary to you. I’m inspired by a variety of things, but I think art, particularly cinema, music, and fashion, has the biggest influence on how I create. Cinematographers, for example, motivate me because they use images to tell stories and successfully portray the emotions of human experiences.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
* WHAT INSPIRES MY WORK

My passion for photography is fueled by the joy of capturing authentic moments that tell a story. Whether it’s a couple in love, a family enjoying each other’s company, or an individual pursuing their dreams, I aim to capture the essence of who they are and what they stand for. I believe that every person has a unique story to tell, and my job as a photographer is to bring that story to life through my lens. I am constantly inspired by the beauty of the world around me and strive to create images that reflect this beauty. My hope is that my work will not only inspire others to pursue their passions but also serve as a reminder of the power of genuine connection and expression. In a world where we often feel disconnected and alone, I believe that genuine conversation, open hearts, and lots of laughing can make all the difference.

I believe that inspiration may come from anyplace, but when you are curious, even about the most basic things, they can start to seem extraordinary to you. I’m inspired by a variety of things, but I think art, particularly cinema, music, and fashion, has the biggest influence on how I create. Cinematographers, for example, motivate me because they use images to tell stories and successfully portray the emotions of human experiences. Their ability to capture the essence of a moment and convey it through visual storytelling is truly remarkable. Music also plays a significant role in my creative process. The way that a melody can evoke certain emotions and create a mood is something that I find fascinating.

I often find myself listening to different genres of music to help inspire me when I’m working on a project. Fashion is another area that I draw inspiration from. The way that clothing can be used to express oneself and convey a message is something that I find captivating. Whether it’s through the bold designs of haute couture or the intricate details of streetwear, fashion has the ability to communicate a message that goes beyond words. From the rebellious spirit of punk to the glamour and excess of Hollywood, fashion has been a reflection of society’s values and aspirations throughout history. It’s no wonder that so many people are drawn to this world of creativity and self-expression. As someone who is passionate about fashion in photography, I am constantly seeking out new sources of inspiration and exploring different styles and trends. Whether I’m browsing through magazines or scrolling through Instagram, I am always on the lookout for that next great idea or trend that will help me take my own work to the next level. Ultimately, I believe that fashion is about more than just looking good – it’s about expressing yourself in a way that is authentic and true to who you are.

MORE THAN JUST A PHOTOGRAPHER. THE BEAUTIFUL ART OF MAKING MEMORIES.

I truly believe that shooting people and their spirit has been a wonderful experience since it has allowed me to meet so many incredible people who have chosen and trusted me to tell their beautiful stories through my lens. I’ve dedicated myself to what brings me joy and provides me with ongoing motivation.
My style is regarded as honest, true-to-feelings documentary photography that is heavily influenced by cinematic and elegant editorial photography. I enjoy both the quiet and intimate moments as well as the loud and exuberant memories.
Photography allows me to relive the past, experience again, and express myself.

THE EXPECIENCE

Photography is really the best way I can express myself. My life’s work is to capture wonderful stories, and I’m here to do just that for you.
I enjoy doing much more than just taking gorgeous photographs. Capture the spirit of the day and who they are. My team and I put in a lot of time and effort to produce something of this magnitude. I believe that every person has a unique story to tell, and it’s my job as a photographer to capture that story in a way that is both beautiful and authentic. Whether I’m shooting a wedding, a family portrait, or an editorial spread, I always strive to capture the essence of my subjects. This means taking the time to get to know them, understand their personalities and passions, and find creative ways to showcase their individuality. For me, photography is not just about creating pretty pictures, it’s about creating lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come. That’s why I put so much time and effort into every shoot, from scouting locations and planning shots to editing and retouching the final images. When you work with me, you can trust that you’ll receive nothing but the best – photographs that truly capture the spirit of the day and who you are as a person.

Nothing is more important to me than connecting with my clients, understanding their needs, and telling their story in the most authentic and unique way possible. I’ve given a lot of thought to how I do things since I started taking photos. My goal is to provide each of my clients with an unforgettable experience that they will remember for the rest of their lives. I am constantly changing and redesigning my client experience to ensure that the way you feel and the relationship we have throughout the process is always prioritized.

The memories of your wedding day will stay with you forever. The pure bliss you felt as you exchanged vows and became one with your partner was unparalleled. The tension leading up to the big moment, followed by the release of emotions as you were pronounced husband and wife, was a feeling like no other. Seeing your family and friends together, celebrating your love, brought tears to your eyes. The party that followed was filled with laughter, dancing, and joyous celebration. Your striking garments made you feel like royalty, and the beautiful location provided the perfect backdrop for your special day. But above all else, it was the moment you said “I do” that will forever be etched in your memory. And every time you say “I love you” to each other from that day forward, it will serve as a reminder of the love and commitment you made on that magical day.

What seems so amazing about wedding photography to me is how delicate and complex it is to document something so unique, as a wedding is. How precious time is, and how quickly those moments of joy pass, that by documenting them, we can relive the same emotions that were experienced in a single space and on a single day. Weddings are truly special occasions that deserve to be documented. The beauty of capturing these moments lies in the fact that time is fleeting and memories fade away. By preserving them through photographs or videos, we can relive the same emotions and feelings that were experienced on that special day. It’s a magical experience to look back at these moments and reminisce about the love, joy, and happiness that filled the air.

The experience of hiring me and my team for your wedding is that you will be doing your own thing and being yourself while I am behind the camera. You might not even notice me at times, but when you see the finished product, you’ll be surprised at what I was truly capturing. I love photographing close-ups with calid tones and experimenting with lights and shadows. All of these aspects are combined to bring out the true beauty of that day and what you felt. So my ultimate goal is to capture the essence of the moment because I believe that a picture should not only reflect the physical appearance of a subject, but also evoke emotions and memories. My style is elegant and minimalist, as I prefer to let the images speak for themselves. I am always searching for new ways to express myself through my art, whether it be through unconventional angles or unique compositions. The passion lies in creating masterpieces that can be cherished, revisited, and passes down through generations. With over 7 years of experience I had the privilege of capturing countless love stories. My passion for photography drives me to constantly improve and evolve my craft. Through my lens, I strive to create timeless pieces that will be cherished for years to come.

Every wedding is unique, with its own set of memories and stories waiting to be told. It’s a privilege to be able to document these precious moments for couples, allowing them to cherish their memories for years to come. Whether it’s the exchange of vows, the first dance or simply the smiles on everyone’s faces, each moment deserves to be captured and treasured forever. So let us embrace the magic of weddings and capture every beautiful moment so that we can relive them again and again.

HOW IT BEGANS

I knew from a young age that I wanted to pursue a career in the arts. I grew up surrounded by music and movies that my parents liked. Music and fashion are what keep me motivated. I’m always seeking for references from the 70´s and 80´s.
I also had the opportunity to attend ballet classes from a very young age, and have developed a sense for art and each detail of discipline and beauty since I can remember. When I first came into contact with a camera, I fell in love with the idea of being able to recreate photos, relive childhood memories, and present them to my family and friends.I started experimenting with different techniques and styles, including food, product, landscape, and portrait photography. I learned how to manipulate light and shadow, how to frame a shot perfectly, and how to capture the essence of a moment in time. I challenged myself with each new project to push the boundaries of what a camera could do. But my interest in photography goes beyond the technical aspects of the fine art. It’s about capturing and sharing the beauty of our surroundings for me.

There’s something magical about capturing these fleeting moments, whether it’s a breathtaking sunset over the ocean or a authentic moment between friends. Photography allows me to freeze time and preserve memories that would otherwise be lost. It’s a way to express my creativity and share my perspective with others. I love exploring new places and finding unique angles to capture familiar scenes. Photography has also taught me to appreciate the small details in life. Through photography, I’ve met incredible people and been exposed to different cultures and ways of life. It’s a never-ending journey of discovery and growth, both as an artist and as a person. Ultimately, photography is my way of connecting with the world around me and sharing its beauty with others.

As a photographer, I have always been drawn to capturing the beauty of the world around me. While I started out with food and product photography, which allowed me to explore the textures and colors of different dishes in a way that is both creative and satisfying. But my interests have shifted over time, nowadays my true passion lies in photodocumentaries of important life events like weddings and portraits. There is something truly magical about capturing the raw emotion and genuine love between two people on their special day. Through my work, I strive to express myself in a way that is both artistic and emotional, creating images that will be treasured for years to come. Whether I am photographing a beautiful meal or a beautiful moment between two people, my goal is always the same: to capture the essence of what makes life so precious and meaningful. And I genuinely believe I have one of the nicest jobs in the world because nothing beats experiencing the joy and beauty of everyday life.

Taking pictures of couples and and capturing who they are in them makes my heart happy. Bringing your feelings into pictures and creating a testimony to who you are, what you love, and the unwritten tale. The essence of the day and the character of the people are captured by love and human ties.

I believe more in the beauty of humanity thanks to my career, and I can feel more in touch with my emotional and artistic side today because of each tale that my camera and heart witness.

Im just so beyond thankful for all the love and support of my clients for helping me get to where I am today.

Thanks for reading and following along In my photography journey.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
To start the day, nothing beats a healthy and fresh breakfast at Whole Sol, an establishment that serves 100% organic, gluten-free, and incredibly delicious food. Smoothie bowls, cold-pressed juices, toasts, hot bowls, and healthy snacks come in a variety of flavors and specialties, and you may order them to go. Sol’s commitment to using only organic and gluten-free ingredients ensures that their food is not only delicious but also healthy. With multiple locations, it’s easy to enjoy their menu no matter where you are in Colorado.
If you appreciate art, I highly recommend paying a visit to the Rino Art District, one of my favorite areas in the city not only because it is one of the most colorful, but also because there are several places to eat and drink. Rino Art is a one-of-a-kind place in the city’s northwestern outskirts. A must-see attraction in the city. I appreciate Rino’s focus on local artists attempting to distinguish themselves in a variety of fields. It is excellent that the district encourages and seeks the support and growth of budding artists because it is made up of local artist organizations that promote new artists through promotion and events. It is a colorful and inspiring destination for tourists and art enthusiasts.

The events hosted by the site are always lively and engaging, making it a great place to spend an evening with friends or family. Additionally, the site’s commitment to showcasing new and diverse artists ensures that there is always something fresh and exciting to discover.  It also has a large range of food and beverage options. One of my recommendations for dinner is Barcelona, one of my favorite restaurants in town, a wine bar with Spanish and South American influences and an enormous wine selection. It is an ideal option to go on a date or with friends for dinner and have a good drink. Their tapas menu is a must-try, especially the patatas bravas and the gambas al ajillo. Barcelona also offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening or catching up with friends over delicious food and drinks.

In addition to its culinary offerings, the city boasts numerous museums and galleries, including the renowned Museum of Modern Art. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking in nearby parks or taking a stroll along the waterfront. I also highly recommend biking at Sloans Lake Park, the second largest park (after City Park) and one of the nicest neighborhoods in the city. It has many usual activities, such as walking, running, and biking on the sidewalks that surround the lake, as well as fishing and boating on the lake itself. In addition, there are also picnic areas and playgrounds for families to enjoy. The park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while still being close to downtown Denver.

For artisanal beer lovers, there are many local breweries with options for all tastes; Denver Beer Co. and Little Machine are my favorites, as are some of the seasonal events and flavors. In addition to these breweries, there are also several beer festivals throughout the year, such as the Great American Beer Festival and the Denver Summer Brew Fest, which showcase a wide variety of craft beers from around the country. Attending these events is a great way to discover new breweries and taste unique flavors.
Other places I recommend for a drink with friends include the Hyatt Regency’s Peaks Lounge, which has one of the best nighttime views of the city and serves delicious hand-crafted cocktails.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to extend a special thank you to Andrea Garduño, my sister and wonderful partner. Graphic designer and creative contributor in many of my sessions. Thank you for all the support you always give me and for allowing me to teach you what I know so that we can grow and create together. This trip has been wonderful, and I am excited about everything that is coming for our future.

Let’s continue to work hard and push ourselves to new heights. Together, we can achieve anything we set our minds to. Thank you for being my right hand and the best team ever. I share this with you, and you know what this step means. I love you forever.

I want to give a very special thank you to my mother, Lucia. For always being a great, unconditional supporter at every step. There are plenty of words to say how eternally grateful I am to you; you are the best. Total thanks!

To my best friends Maria Jose, Roselyn, and Mildred Daniela. For all your support and love, for always believing in my work, and for being a special part of this whole journey. Without you, it would not be the same.

Also, a special thanks to my boyfriend, Michael Scott. For always supporting my dreams, encouraging me to believe in my talent, and going above and beyond to experience new things and learn from each other. I feel very happy and lucky to have a life partner like you.

I’m incredibly grateful to have such wonderful people in my life. I appreciate each of you so much for being who you are.

Your love, support, and encouragement have been invaluable to me, and I cannot thank you enough.

You have all played a significant role in my success, and I look forward to continuing this journey with all of you by my side.

Website: https://anagarduno.com

Instagram: anagardunophoto

Facebook: Ana Garduño Fotografía

Image Credits
All the photos I send are my own