Meet Iván Díaz

Today we’d like to introduce you to Iván Díaz. 

Iván, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My interest in art, architecture, and photography started at a very young age… but I specifically remember flipping through the pages of the National Geographic magazines my stepdad had around the house. My stepdad dropped out of school in the 6th grade and my mom in 7th grade, in those days you’d work to help the family, and that’s what they did. And because of that, education was always emphasized at home. I was fortunate to be the first one in my immediate family to finish high school, and then go on to complete both undergraduate and graduate school as I reflect back, those Nat Geo magazines represented more than just magazines. It was like having the world at our fingertips. I remember my eyes gravitating to all the beautiful photos and I was immediately drawn to the colors, the angles, and the story each image told. From then on, I saw the world around me as a beautiful portrait. 

It wasn’t until college, where I bought my first handheld/point-and-shoot camera. In fact, I used some of my work-study money to purchase my camera at a local pawn shop. At the time, the 100 dollars was a whole lot of money for a broke college freshman. As soon as I had that camera in my possession, it never left my sight! It was much later that my partner gifted me a camera, the Canon Rebel XS, a great entry-level camera. And boy did I feel special! That gave me the confidence to let my artistic eye flourish. 

And as they say, the rest is history. I now have been a professional photographer for 14 years! I am proud to say that I am one of the only BIPOC/ bilingual photographers in the Northern Colorado region. In my 14 years of being a photographer, I’ve been fortunate to be backstage as the lead photographer for artist like Sugar Ray, Smash Mouth, WAR, and even Cheech and Chong! My work over the years has grown to focus on quinceañeras, weddings, events, family portraits, executive/professional headshots, photojournalism, and more!

In 2016 I collaborated with the Latino Leadership Institute as the lead photographer for a project titled: Bringing Colorado Leaders: Untold Stories of Latino Entrepreneurs. My work was displayed at the Space Gallery located at Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe where over 300 people attended throughout the evening! Having my own gallery show was truly one of the most monumental moments of my photography career.

I have also had the opportunity to be the head photographer for a local community magazine photographing families in Greeley and across Weld County. My award-winning piece, “Los Trabajadores” is part of a black and white series, showcasing a day in the life of migrant field workers in Weld County and is one of my most empowering projects I’ve done.

My most recent project, “The Last Day of Harvest” highlights the last day of harvest on a family farm that goes back 4 generations of farmers in Eastern Colorado.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Like any journey, we have our ups and downs. And sometimes those experiences lead us to where we are today.  I dedicated over a decade of my professional career to higher education and nonprofit work in various executive leadership roles, all while I did photography part time. More like 80/20. 80% career 20% photography. However, over the years the stress and expectation of the work caused a lot of pressure and a lot of time away from my family- both mentaly and physically.  Most recently,  I decided to make the jump to focus more intentionally on my photography. I’m really looking forward to dedicating more of my time, corazon and energy to my craft and my familia. I am excited for what is ahead! And like my mother would say “hechale ganas/give it all you got”.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am an innovative, versatile, and high-energy photographer located in the Northern Colorado. As one of the only bilingual photographers in Northern Colorado, I am known for my collaborative approach with clients in scheduling, location selection, and photo session vision. As a photographer, I have been dedicated to capturing stories one image at a time. I am most proud that I can listen to stories told by those I photograph. In those moments of vulnerability, and trust, I am able to truly hear and capture those stories. 

Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Outside of my photography business, I love spending time with my partner of 15 years, our three kids and our 3 pets! I love music, art, cultura, riding and repairing bicycles and good company!

Pricing:

• Professional Headshots starting at $250!

Contact Info:

• Email: idiazphotos@gmail.com
• Website: www.ivandiazphotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivand_photography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IDiazPhotography