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

Hi Leydi, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Photography kind of fell on my lap. I took my first photography class in high school because I needed an art elective and instantly fell in love. I then got my first digital camera at 15 and began taking pictures of anything and everything. I used those first years to find my own style. I chose to purse photography because I love the process of thinking with my eyes. The colors, scenery, editing presenting, and sharing are all so visually satisfying for me.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
In photography, it’s all about finding your style. In the beginning stages, you will look at others’ work and try to imitate, but through that, you will learn about the things you like and dislike. Some big lessons I’ve learned during my 5+ years of doing photography is that it’s all about the actual shooter and less about the camera. I have shot some of the biggest artists with a camera body that many consider beginner but that does not stop me from being in those same rooms. Belive in your work, build community, network with good people, and be nice! It goes such a long way.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my bestie was coming to visit Houston I would love to take them to my favorite record stores like Cactus Music and Sigs Lagoon. They have the coolest collections and a lot in rap and RnB! To eat I love Cali Sandwich & Pho, they have great Bahn Mi’s and eggrolls, and a great price as well. Lastly, I am a biggg cafe person. I love to edit photos and do some work and my favorites are The Coffeehouse at West End, Tout Suite, and Black Hole Coffee House.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First of all my parents and friends for always believing in me. They are my biggest supporters in anything I do. I want to thank the University of Houston’s student-run radio, Coogradio. Through them, I got into concert photography which took my photography game to another level. They truly pushed me and guided me to become a better creative.

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@leydigonzalez15

Image Credits
on personal picture is by Kayla Middleton

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.