We had the good fortune of connecting with Jay Ybarra and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jay, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
When I was younger I had always thought I would have a day job and do photography on the side. Eventually I just got to the point where I couldn’t work under someone else. I love being able to make my own schedule, and not being physically exhausted after working a 50+ hour a week job. I had always been creative in some way or another, but photography was the one that stuck.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Im a photographer. I think what sets me apart from others is my willingness to try different types of things. Where I was initially when I started was more of a hobby. I loved taking photos, walking around and just getting photos of whatever interested me. Then I was taking photos of landscape, but it wasn’t until I started taking photos of people that I felt like I could be more creative with my style.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take them downtown Austin, maybe walk around the Power Plant, and the pedestrian bridge on S Lamar. I think I would go to 888 to get pho. Before covid I’d suggest the Alamo Drafthouse, and at least checking out 6th street once if you never have, especially the East side.Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I really just want to shout out Annabeth Ojeda for helping me realize that I just needed to take the risk and see what happens

Website: jayybarraphoto.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-ybarra-8a6633143/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/_photojay

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/photojayphoto/

Image Credits
@kxng.lapo/@ttumie @kingmiladee/@afromexico @tuanhtt @tamanthasorres

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.