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

Hi Michael, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I decided to pursue a creative career because it was something that always made me happy. As a little kid I would be doing all types of creative things whether it be drawings, or paintings I always always doing something creatively and it made me happy, the number one thing that I loved doing was photography. I would always be the one taking photos on the old family family camera of our road trips, of nature etc. As I got older I decided to pursue my interests that I had as a child, and it got me many places I could’ve never imagined.

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.
The number one thing I’m proud of my work is the variety of content that I have been able to produce. I was best at concert photography, pre-quarantine. I was lucky enough to photograph big artists such as Celine Dion, Cher, Bad Bunny, and photograph big festivals such as ACL, JMBLYA, Vans Warped Tour and a few others. Being able to photograph these artists and the audience at the show was one of the most rewarding feelings. It took a lot of work to get where I was and I’m especially thankful for the music publication I worked for because they got me into places I never thought I’d be. Covid has unfortunately stopped concerts but I managed to find a different style of photography to focus on and it has been studio/portrait work. It was something that was very new and different to me but I quickly found a love for it. Being able to control light in studio to make your portrait come to life and give it dimension is something that I never thought I would do. If there’s anything I’ve learned during Covid is to not be afraid to try new things and dive in, because it may be something you end up loving to do.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
After picking up my friend from the airport I would take them to visit downtown, especially discovery green and buffalo bayou park. During this time it’s extremely peaceful and I think it would be a great way to get started with the week by walking around the city and enjoying a great view of the Houston skyline. Monday I would take them to the Mercer Botanical Gardens to give them a nice view of what we have to offer, the afternoon would be provided with a family dinner. Tuesday would be a day where we could explore The Woodlands and the waterway. There are many nice places to visit in that area and maybe even go to the mall to shop. Wednesday would be a day where we relax and catch a break before we start the rest of the week. Thursday is free museum day so we would visit the MFAH and the HMNS and enjoy the art and science, we would also eat at my favorite restaurant in that area. Barnaby’s cafe. Friday afternoon we would go downtown and walk around and enjoy the nightlife on main street and grab a bite to eat at Franks Pizza. Saturday we would take a stroll through midtown, visit cafes, and go thrifting and maybe even have a small photoshoot. There is so much to do in Houston and the outskirts that week long trip is not enough to see what the city has to offer.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I think my family is one of the main people I would give a “shoutout” to. They have always supported me no matter and what and continue to pursue my dreams. My friends as well have constantly pushed me to be the best that I can, they always find a way to motivate me even when I’m feeling down about my creative work. My mentors also have helped me a ton in this industry. They’ve given me so much helpful advice, have taken me on their shoots to learn from them and constantly support my growth.

Website: https://www.michaelbperea.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelbperea/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michaelpereaphoto

Image Credits
People in Images: Cher, Bad Bunny, The Distillers, Avalon, Ariela, Sarenah, Monica,

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