Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Lazo.
Hi Mike, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
It all started when my cousin Carlos aka Los was creating videos as a filmmaker. I would hang out with him while he was creating. Los, has always introduced me into different forms of arts. From music, to street graffiti, to designers and different types of creatives. When the first iPhone was introduced it really woke up an interest to document my daily lifestyle. It put a camera in our pockets.
I always loved taking photos at family functions and hangouts, my sneakers (as I was a big sneaker collector at the time), fav places in the city, the different car meets and of course the Southside.
3 years ago, I decided to buy my first camera and it woke up a passion in me that I haven’t felt in a long time. I would practice everyday in downtown after work from 5pm to midnight, sometimes event till 3am. I met some incredible friends on this journey so far that have also been a part of my fast growth. I’m forever grateful for them.
I now focus on still documenting my personal life, family and from the street culture were I was born and raised. From the Slab & Lowrider culture to streetwear, to the neighborhoods that are changing due to gentrification. The Southeast will always be special in my heart. It made me who I am today.
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?
Of course not, I think I’ve created some of my best photos when I wasn’t feeling the best, or I was limited due to gear and not having all the resources to create or document.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Since I’m still young in this photography journey.
I am a street photographer focusing on documenting the culture of my city in a very old-school way. I’ve been studying the history of photography and started shooting 35mm film 3 months after I picked up my digital camera. It has definitely made me a better photographer and for that I am grateful.
What matters most to you?
My family will always matter the most to me. They’re the whole reason why I decided to pick up a camera. After my parent’s divorce, we lost most of our childhood to teenage photos and VHS videos. Documenting my family’s special moments are priceless to me.
Second, my city. Houston is a very beautiful and city and a lot is changing. I want to be able to always the beauty of the hood and places where my friends and I grew up. To show the rich culture and roots. Not just for us, but for the generations to come.
Pricing:
- Rate starts at $140
Contact Info:
- Email: bookingphotomike@gmail.com
- Website: mikealazo.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brokinspanish/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/brokinspanish
Image Credits
@stlathird (Main photo)
