Meet Steven Barrios Najarro | Profesional Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Steven Barrios Najarro and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Steven, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
When it comes to creative pursuits, such as photography, it’s essential to recognize the importance of self-care and the need for occasional breaks. While some may perceive taking a break as giving up, I prefer to view it as a necessary pause to recharge and find renewed inspiration. As artists, we often pour our hearts and souls into our work, pushing ourselves to the limits in the pursuit of excellence. However, this relentless drive can sometimes lead to burnout, leaving us mentally and physically drained. In these moments, it’s crucial to listen to our inner voice and recognize when we need to step back and take a breather. Taking a break doesn’t mean abandoning our passion or admitting defeat; rather, it’s a way to honor our well-being and replenish our creative energy. Stepping away from our art for a few days or even weeks can provide the space we need to reflect, recharge, and gain a fresh perspective.
During these breaks, we have an opportunity to explore other aspects of life, engage in different experiences, and gather inspiration from sources outside our usual artistic realm. It could involve spending quality time with loved ones, immersing ourselves in nature, or exploring new hobbies and interests. By allowing ourselves to indulge in these activities, we open ourselves up to new experiences and insights that can ultimately enhance our artistic expression.
However, it’s important to note that taking a break should be a conscious decision, one made with the intention of nurturing our well-being rather than surrendering to defeat. It’s crucial to distinguish between a temporary pause and completely giving up on our artistic pursuits. The distinction lies in understanding the impact on our mental and physical health.
If our art begins to consume us to the point where it negatively affects our well-being, it may be necessary to reevaluate our approach. Our mental and physical health should always take precedence over our creative endeavors. Recognizing the signs of excessive stress, anxiety, or burnout is crucial. If persistently pushing forward compromises our overall well-being, it’s essential to reassess our priorities and seek the necessary support to restore balance in our lives.
Ultimately, taking breaks and stepping back from our art is not a sign of weakness or failure; it’s a testament to our commitment to long-term growth and self-care. By recognizing when we need respite and when our mental and physical health is at stake, we can make informed decisions about how best to nurture ourselves and our creative journeys. Sometimes, taking a break can lead to a newfound appreciation, fresh ideas, and a revitalized passion that propels us forward on our artistic path.

What should our readers know about your business?
My photography journey has been far from smooth sailing. The sheer amount of time and effort I had to invest in mastering the technical aspects of photography was staggering. Learning the intricacies of exposure, composition, lighting, and post-processing required a significant commitment on my part. Balancing this intensive learning process with the demands of everyday life was no easy task.

What made matters even more challenging was the realization that photography wasn’t just about taking captivating images; it also entailed understanding the business side of the industry. At the young age of 16, I found myself navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship, learning how to market and promote my services, manage client relationships, and handle the financial aspects of running a business. These responsibilities added an extra layer of time-consuming and exhausting work to my already packed schedule.

Compounding these difficulties was the fact that I was still a high school student, simultaneously juggling advanced placement (AP) and dual credit (DC) classes. Striving to excel academically while also pursuing my passion for photography stretched my time management skills to their limits. Homework, assignments, and exams demanded my attention, leaving little room for respite. The constant juggling act of balancing school commitments, managing and promoting my business, and honing my photography skills was undeniably challenging.

Furthermore, being young posed a unique hurdle in my pursuit of clients. Many potential clients often favored photographers with more experience and a seasoned portfolio. While I understood their preference for seasoned professionals, it was disheartening to face rejection or skepticism solely due to my age. The perception that youth equated to a lack of expertise made it difficult to secure clients and establish credibility in the competitive photography industry. However, I remained determined to prove myself and showcase my talent, despite the initial biases associated with my age.

Overcoming these obstacles required resilience, perseverance, and a deep passion for my craft. I had to constantly prove my capabilities, demonstrate my commitment to delivering exceptional work, and showcase my artistic vision to potential clients. It was an uphill battle, but with each successful project and satisfied client, I gradually earned the trust and recognition that transcended my age.

The challenges I faced as a young photographer have been arduous, but they have also shaped me into a more resilient and driven individual. The experiences I gained from managing a business, balancing academics, and overcoming age-related barriers have instilled in me a profound sense of determination and resourcefulness. As I continue to grow and develop my photography career, I carry these lessons with me, knowing that the obstacles I overcame have fortified my passion and commitment to this art form.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
One of my personal favorite areas to explore is Downtown Houston. The bustling streets and impressive architecture create a vibrant atmosphere that never fails to captivate me. Among the various attractions Downtown, one place that stands out for me is POST Houston. This unique venue holds a special place in my heart, not only because of its delectable food options but also because of the breathtaking skyline view it offers from its rooftop.

Upon stepping onto the rooftop of POST Houston, you’re greeted with an awe-inspiring panorama of the city’s majestic skyline. The sight of towering skyscrapers, illuminated against the night sky or bathed in the warm glow of the sun, is truly a sight to behold. The rooftop at POST Houston provides an unforgettable setting to soak in the city’s beauty and marvel at its urban landscape.

When it comes to satisfying your culinary cravings, Frank’s Pizza is a standout choice in Houston. Nestled within the vibrant food scene of the city, this pizzeria offers a unique and delicious experience. What sets Frank’s Pizza apart is its dedication to handcrafting pizzas that are truly exceptional. Each slice is a masterpiece, made with attention to detail and a passion for creating a delightful culinary experience. From the perfectly crisp crust to the mouthwatering combinations of fresh toppings, every bite is a revelation of flavor and quality.

In the vibrant city of Houston, there are countless opportunities to explore and indulge in unique experiences. From the captivating sights of Downtown and the breathtaking skyline view at POST Houston to the mouthwatering handcrafted pizzas at Frank’s Pizza, the city offers a diverse range of options to cater to every preference. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking new adventures, Houston has something to offer that will leave you enamored and eager to uncover more of its treasures.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to receive support from numerous individuals, but there are three people whose impact on my photography journey stands out. First and foremost, I am immensely grateful to my mom, whose unwavering belief in my abilities allowed me to embark on this path. It was thanks to her that I had the means to purchase my very first camera, a Nikon D3200, as she generously contributed a portion of the funds required. Her faith in my potential as a photographer was the catalyst that ignited my passion and spurred me on.

Equally instrumental in my career development is my dad, who played a pivotal role in establishing my photography business. For over a year and a half, he selflessly dedicated his time and effort to support my aspirations. From driving me to various photoshoot locations to assisting me with the transportation of equipment, his unwavering support and practical assistance were invaluable. Without his consistent backing, it would have been significantly more challenging to navigate the early stages of my professional journey.

Lastly, I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to my mentor, William Brink, who served as my photography teacher during my time in high school. Prior to encountering him, I possessed a solid understanding of the technical aspects of photography but lacked the ability to transform my captures into works of art. Under his expert guidance, I learned how to transcend the mere technicality of capturing an image and embrace the artistry inherent in photography. He nurtured my creative instincts, instilling in me the skills and knowledge necessary to evolve into both a commercial and fine art photographer.

The combined influence of these three individuals, my mom, dad, and mentor, has been immeasurable in shaping my photography career. Their unwavering support, belief, and guidance have propelled me forward, enabling me to explore the depths of my artistic vision and establish myself as a professional in the field. I am forever grateful for their contributions and the profound impact they have had on my journey as a photographer.

Website: barriospic.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barriospic/