In this blog, tutor and professional photographer Hugo Felix tells us what got him interested in photography, why he enjoys passing his knowledge and passion to his students, and shares his professional advice.
Tell us a little about your career/education or progression within the industry.
As a kid, I used to watch my grandfather developing his films in his old attic. Images appearing under my eyes, almost like magic, caught my attention. I wanted to create my own photos and watch them appear too.
When I was very young, my love for this art grow day by day. I got my first camera when I was a teenager, enrolled in a photography course, and started shooting. Later, in 2005, I learned about microstock photography as a way to make a living. I worked hard, but it really paid off as I set up my studio and bought my own gear. And, most importantly, I traveled as much as I could. A couple of years ago, after being inspired by several wedding photographers, I jumped into this area too. The next step will be newborn photography as soon as I gain the courage to hold a baby.
What were you doing before you started tutoring at the Academy?
I graduated in Electronics and Telecommunications Engineering, and I was in charge of an R&D department in an IT company. However, I was also tutoring several photography courses and workshops. As I really strive to pass my knowledge, passion, and expertise to my students, I decided to make it a full-time job.
Image courtesy Hugo Felix.
What got you interested in photography?
My grandfather used to buy several photography books and magazines. I always loved to appreciate a good image (who doesn’t?).
Still, I was intrigued by several techniques, such as long/short exposures that would allow the photographer to achieve star trails or freeze water drops.
Image courtesy Hugo Felix.
What do you enjoy most about being a photographer/teaching photography?
I always say that “only a photographer knows the feeling”. The feeling of joy that invades you as you watch THE image appearing on your camera’s LCD after brainstorming, framing, and choosing your settings can’t be explained by words. I strive to pass on this feeling on a daily basis.
What photography styles do you lean towards? How would you define your style?
I really appreciate the technical side of photography. Maybe, for this reason, I enjoy studio photography and working with several strobes at the same time. The creative side that microstock/commercial photography needs also pleases me a lot. Last but not least, travel photography is “the only thing you buy that makes you richer”.
Image courtesy Hugo Felix.
Do you think there are must-have skills for photographers? If so, which do you believe are relevant for the industry?
Without any doubt, good self-critique. Having the capacity to look at your work and realize what you could have done better is vital. When I analyze my images, I see mistakes everywhere. That’s my motivation.
How do you choose your subjects?
I look at dozens and sometimes even hundreds of images every day, in forums, social media, websites, etc. I guess that a lot of my inspiration comes from this research.
Image courtesy Hugo Felix.
Do you have any funny or peculiar photography experiences you would like to share? And what did you learn from that?
I always charge my batteries the night before having a photoshoot. That day, I had a shoot booked in a city around two hours away. Took my bag, left, arrived at the place, and grabbed my camera only to realize I had left the batteries charging at home. It was a microstock shooting. Nonetheless, it was quite embarrassing.
Moral of the story: always make a checklist!!
Image courtesy Hugo Felix.
If you could spend a day with any photographer, dead or alive, who would that be and why?
My grandfather, for all the reasons possible.
What advice would you give to someone who is looking to start their own photography business/career?
Don’t be afraid to try and, most importantly, don’t be scared to fail. Find images that inspire you and try to mimic the technique the photographer has used. Ask for feedback on your work and, most importantly, think of ways to improve it. When you finish, repeat the process.
Image courtesy Hugo Felix.
Hugo Felix is a studio, portrait and landscape photographer. His work has been featured in many exhibitions and photographic magazines. He has a large catalog in Micro Stock Photography and has over 30,000 images available on 10 different sites. Hugo has been teaching photography for a number of years and enjoys sharing his passion and knowledge with students. You can see and follow Hugo's work and portfolio on his website or Instagram page.
To find out how you can become a photographer, visit our courses page.