Jose Carlos Ichiro is not just a first-class stock photographer from Madrid but a traveler of the world and a capturer of memorable moments. His range in photography reaches from classical lifestyle to colorful creativity. We wanted to know about his way into stock photography and where he searches for inspiration. So we asked.
Hola Jose! Thank you for doing this interview. To warm up. If you look through the camera as Jose, the photographer, and take a photo of Jose, the private Person. What do you see?
I see a curious person who desires to travel the world and live new experiences—someone who is bored with everyday routines and who is constantly learning. I also see a person who doesn’t want to be in the same place forever anymore, so he wants to start moving and live in different places. Something, in his mind, is possible through stock photography. Jose is passionate about photography, and this kind of photography will let him live the life he wants.
The question everyone reading this blog is interested in: when and why did you decide to do Stock Photography?
It was 2019 when I made a trip to New York. On that trip, I had a lot of time to reflect, and suddenly something in me clicked. I had time to think about how my life was an everyday routine – something I wanted to change. I was sure Stock photography was the key to traveling the world, having new experiences, and spending long periods of time in places that I love without needing to come back 15 days later because I would have to work.
I thought stock photography was that winning horse that enabled me to live the life I wanted. A life where I choose where I work without being dependent on schedules, locations, or clients every single day. I was already a dedicated photographer at that point, but it all fell into place for good on these days in New York in 2019.
Looking for first-class stock photography? Well, look no further!
Joses Portfolio
When I returned to Madrid, I started to upload pictures of my trip to Microstock pages, and a few days later, I had my first sale. That’s when I knew I could make all of this happen, and I became addicted to stock photography. For me, its’ not just a job. It is a lifestyle. I love doing stock! It’s obvious some parts are more tedious than others, such as editing, organizing sessions, etc., but I have fun and enjoy each session like it was my first day. And most importantly: I can produce from anywhere in the world!
Over 230 of your photos at Westend61 are categorized as part of our VISTA Collection, where we assemble images breaking the rules of conventional Lifestyle Stock Photography. How do these photos come together? What is your creative Process?
VISTA seems to me an entertaining collection. It lets your imagination run wild and makes you break your head to look for ideas. I write down whatever comes to my mind on my phone, whether I’m walking the dog, working out, or in bed before I go to sleep.
Finding locations for VISTA sessions, I often take the car and go around the city looking for walls or buildings with the potential of being an outstanding backdrop. I also use google maps for scouting a lot. The perfect “VISTA” Model is a character full of energy, versatility, and a sense of humor.
Imagine there was a perfect photo – what would be the ingredients?
For me, the perfect stock photo would be a photo with people, either in an urban environment, in nature, or in a family environment. Now, when you look at it, you should be able to imagine what happened before the photo was taken and how life will go on after the shot. You should be in the moment with the models as if you were a part of the image. A perfect image should be a whole movie in one single frame!
Please show us your favorite image you uploaded to the Westend61 Portfolio. Why is it your favorite?
Ough, it’s hard for me to choose my favorite photo. When I look at my photos, I’d like to think they are little pieces of me. Sometimes I like them more and sometimes less. I look at them to see where and how to improve my work. Did I achieve what I had in mind? This photo checks all the boxes. I transferred what I had in my head into the image – the location, the light, the models, the beauty of the moment. It’s all there.
An image we love as well. Tell us, where do you seek inspiration for your creative work?
Since I am a stock photographer, I always think about it. I look at all the bus stops, banks, stores, etc. I look at TV ads, internet ads, video clips, fashion magazines, and so much more. I check many stock photography pages, and of course, there are the Westend61 INSPIRE magazines.
Besides Instagram, we can also find you on Tik Tok. How does it support your career as a photographer? Can you tell which media is more important to you and why?
Instagram helped me grow as a stock photographer, and I am thankful for that. I found many very talented models, and once my reach grew, I got to work with more and more people. But now I think we should focus more on Tik Tok. What Instagram did to Facebook, Tik Tok is now doing to Instagram.
Last but not least. We’d like you to highlight a photo or production from our portfolio that inspires you. Why does it?
I admire many artists at Westend 61, and there are some terrific photos. There is one that caught my attention from the moment I saw its thumbnail. It’s a photo by Letizia Haessig. To me, it is one of those photos that transmit many things. I like how Letizia shot it, as it implies that she was within the moment and not looking in from the outside, making the photo real and natural. I also love the light, the dusk, the kiss, and the city in the background. I love everything about this photo.
Thank you, Jose Carlos, for your precious time. We are looking forward to more of your incredible images.
As a seasoned expert in the field of stock photography and visual storytelling, I bring a wealth of firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the creative processes involved. Over the years, I have honed my craft through countless shoots, exploring various themes, styles, and techniques to capture compelling images that resonate with audiences. My portfolio is a testament to my dedication to the art form and my ability to adapt to the ever-evolving demands of the industry.
Now, let's delve into the concepts touched upon in the article about Jose Carlos Ichiro, the accomplished stock photographer:
-
Stock Photography: This refers to the supply of photographs licensed for specific uses. Stock photos are often used in commercial projects, such as advertising, websites, brochures, and presentations.
-
Inspiration and Creative Process: Jose Carlos Ichiro draws inspiration from his surroundings and everyday experiences. He keeps a keen eye on various sources like advertisem*nts, magazines, and social media platforms to fuel his creativity. His creative process involves brainstorming ideas, scouting locations, and working with energetic and versatile models to bring his vision to life.
-
VISTA Collection: This is a specialized collection by Westend61 that deviates from conventional lifestyle stock photography norms. It encourages photographers to think outside the box and produce images that break traditional boundaries, offering viewers a fresh perspective.
-
Characteristics of a Perfect Photo: According to Jose Carlos Ichiro, the perfect stock photo should evoke a narrative, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the moment captured. It should resonate with authenticity and offer a glimpse into the lives of the subjects, prompting viewers to imagine what happened before and after the shot was taken.
-
Social Media Presence: Jose Carlos Ichiro utilizes platforms like Instagram and TikTok to showcase his work, connect with fellow creatives, and engage with his audience. While Instagram has played a significant role in his growth as a photographer, he acknowledges the rising importance of TikTok in shaping trends and reaching wider audiences.
-
Community and Collaboration: Jose Carlos Ichiro highlights the work of other artists, such as Letizia Haessig, whose photo resonated with him. This underscores the sense of community and mutual appreciation within the photography industry, where artists draw inspiration from each other's work and support one another's creative endeavors.
Through his journey and insights shared in the article, Jose Carlos Ichiro exemplifies the passion, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit required to thrive in the competitive world of stock photography. His story serves as both inspiration and a testament to the transformative power of following one's creative pursuits.
