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AVVAY Pro Highlight: Portland Photographer Zair Urbano Santos

It’s our pleasure to introduce you to Portland photographer Zair Urbano Santos. Zair has been a creative person for as long as he can remember, but photography is a new outlet for him. Despite being a fresh face in the photography field, this creative strongly believes in learning the basics and developing his own style. And despite being one of a plethora of talented Portland photographers, his work is truly one-of-a-kind. Read what else he has to say about his creative process and inspirations.

“…I do find it easy to stay creative by surrounding myself with other creative people and also doing projects I enjoy rather than chasing a few bucks.”

What person or experience initially got you interested in pursuing your art?

Back in high school I was known for being an artistic kid. My senior year I began to lose interest because it was only for a grade and no longer for the fun of it. So I took a break from painting and drawing. Fast forward to a little over a year ago I was itching to get back into art and photography ended up being the avenue I picked.

 How do you find inspiration to stay creatively fresh from project to project?

I struggle with that to this day, but I do find it easy to stay creative by surrounding myself with other creative people and also doing projects I enjoy rather than chasing a few bucks.

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 What’s in your camera bag?

I keep it really light, Sony a7 with the 28-70mm f4 and a film camera.

Is there any new gear or technology that you have your eye on this year?

Don’t really have my eye on any new tech this year.

If you could share one piece of advice with up and coming photographers, what would it be?

Don’t worry so much about the camera and equipment if you’re just starting out, focus on learning the basics and creating a style of your own. Also, learn how to talk to your subjects. I’ve found myself hearing from many models that say some photographers get so busy trying to get the shot the model is left guessing what the photographer wants. So learn how to communicate with your models and peers.

What is one area of your work or field you would love to grow in this year?

Filming is one thing I want to learn and get better at this year. For photography, meet more creative people in my area and other areas of the world. I feel I could learn so much by doing that.

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