Today we’d like to introduce you to Jorge Luna.
Jorge, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Hi everyone, My name is Jorge Luna aka WTRMRK. My interest in photography started when I took a trip to Europe in 2009. The architecture and landscapes caught my eye but at the time I didn’t have a camera so I was using my iPhone 4 to take photos. Eventually, my major in college led me to take a photography class and that is when everything changed. I purchased my first camera and I began my photo assignments. I also joined Instagram during that time in 2012. I was inspired by what photographers around the world posted on the app. I felt that there weren’t many people showing Houston in an artistic way. I started going out at night and taking photos of the streets and skyline. I would always look for different perspectives that I could share.
My style progressed throughout the years by going out frequently and shooting with friends I made through Instagram. Thanks to the app I was able to build a following and showcase my work to a broader audience. It has provided me with a lot of opportunities to work with major brands as a freelance photographer throughout the years. It wasn’t until last year that I was offered a full-time position to work as the staff photographer for Houston Community College. I am very thankful for everything that has come from my photography career.
Great, 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 wasn’t always a smooth road. I wasn’t able to do photography full time so I always had other jobs. It wasn’t my main income until I graduated from college in 2014. Eventually, I decided to leave my job as a graphic designer and pursue photography full time. It wasn’t easy but my following on Instagram helped me create a name for myself in the Houston community.
Freelancing can be lucrative but it can also be very hard. Sometimes I would go months without getting paid. I would still work on my photography and try to improve. I found that it takes a lot of patience and hard work. In the end, if you have the dedication and let your work speak for itself the opportunities will come.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about WTRMRK – what should we know?
My business name is WTRMRK. I don’t have a photography style I specialize in. I’m known for being versatile and shooting all types of gigs like a concert, event, architecture, lifestyle, and commercial.
This is what I’m most proud of and I believe sets me apart from others.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Being hardworking, dedicated, and taking time to perfect my craft has been important in building my success.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wtrmrk.com
- Email: wvtrmrk@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/wvtrmrk
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/wtrmrk
Image Credit:
Ana Quiroz
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