Today we’d like to introduce you to Hugo Silva.
Hugo, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I have always been a very visual person. I remember when I got my first Razr flip camera phone, I was in high school and I started taking pictures of motorcycles, cars and shoes. Fast forward to March 2011, my son was born, and my interests quickly shifted to capturing all the important moments as he grew up. The first camera I bought was a simple Nikon point and shoot and only having previous experience on a camera phone, I slowly became familiar and comfortable operating it. He started playing sports and I was that very proud sideline dad taking pictures of all his plays. Driving through Houston to get to his next tournament we’d find art and graffiti, so I’d stop to take some pictures of him in front of the pieces. It became our bonding time, exploring the city and shooting with my best friend. He was my only “model” for a long time. I tend to be anti-social and sometimes would suffer from social anxiety. I had mastered how to direct a four year old to pose for a shoot, but I still had not stepped out of my comfort zone to shoot adults. I was unsure how to approach others with the idea to let me take their picture. I started in my circle of friends, capturing their expressions in their normal everyday conversations. I practiced more candid shots of our environment and over time that grew my interest and focus on street photography.
Three years ago, I saw a post on social media about a meet up for local Houston photographers in Downtown. I pushed myself to go, to get out of my comfort zone again and attend. It was my first and last networking event. I realized it wasn’t my scene but from there I was able to find people who were interested in collaborating. I’ve practiced a lot, I’ve grown to be more comfortable in a social setting, and I’ve taught myself how to use the equipment and how to edit photos with some help from my friends along the way. Today I’ve done over 50 concepts and I’ve grown my library to over 5,000 images.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Street photography sometimes can be complicated. You have to be aware of your surroundings at all times, abide by the rules of the location, and be very careful. I’ve only had one instance where police where involved, and I was detained for trespassing. Be smart and be safe in your explorations.
Please tell us about your business.
As a street photographer I capture Houston’s Culture. I specialize in unique settings, portraits, and products. I’m proud to bring a client’s vision to life and I pride myself in being a perfectionist who just wants to tell a story.
What’s your favorite memory from childhood?
My favorite childhood memory is going with my dad and uncles to watch cars street racing. I guess you can say that’s where it all started.
Pricing:
- Pricing: $80 Initial Session for 60 minutes with 8 edited images
Contact Info:
- Email: hou.goshoots@gmail.com
- Instagram: hou.go
Image Credit:
Photo taken of me was shot by st.la third
young boy is my son
yellow slab was taken at MacGregor Park
SouthSideFinest was also taken at MacGregor Park
Male Model is st.la third
Featuring the Flags of the Houston Astros taken at Minute Maid.
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