Photographer Spotlight: Raymond Cruz, Fine Art Photography

Tell us a little bit about yourself? and how did you start photography?

I’m Raymond Tesoro Cruz (b. Philippines) half Ilocano half Bulakeño, a contemporary artist based in Antipolo City. I’m a conscientious craftsman in which I print and frame my work. I’m the co-owner of redlab*, a highly specialized print studio focused on fine art photography and custom printing.

In 2003, I bought my first camera. It was a Fuji FinePix 2.4 megapixel which I used mainly for my graphic design projects. Then came the Nikon FM10. In 2006, I was able to buy my first DSLR which was a Canon 350D. It was the last quarter of that year when I started landscape photography and also explored using a medium format film camera. In 2013, I had a transition in the field of fine art printing.

As a photographer, I was persistently pursuing and exploring the medium and its limitations. Took part in numerous art exhibitions. Some of my works reside with private collectors and are on permanent display at One Gallery and the Archbishop’s Palace in Batangas City.

Oh, and by the way I have my website www.raymondcruz.com.

#fotografíaSpotlight © Raymond Cruz, Fine Art Photographer

What do you love most about what you do?

I love the creative process, the patience, the craftsmanship, the freedom, and the satisfaction that it is so hard to explain. I feel fulfilled when I print my images. Seeing my work come to life is extremely rewarding. Doing the whole photographic process might not be convenient and not profitable but it surely satisfies my soul.

What or who inspires you? Where do you find inspiration?

Ideas. I like audacious ideas. It fuels me to challenge and ignites myself more.

In the early stages of my photography, I was inspired by the work of Ansel Adams. Ansel taught me the power of tonality. It wasn’t long until I realized that I am attracted to black & white and fine art photography. I found the works of Bill Brandt, Edward Weston, and Robert Adams who’s work I feel had an impact on my creative vision. Hiroshi Sugimoto, a contemporary Japanese photographer plays a big influence on how I approach my process. It open up myself and I started creating rather than looking. James Turrell, Michael Kenna for their simplicity, and Fan Ho for his romantic and distinctive play of light and shadow.

I seek inspiration in music, science, literature, and paintings nowadays.

#fotografíaSpotlight © Raymond Cruz, Fine Art Photographer

What is your favorite camera and lens? Could you tell us a bit about the equipment you use?

I don’t have a favorite camera but I’m currently using a full frame with 45.7 megapixels camera paired with tilt-shift and prime lenses.

Name an interesting place you’ve ever photographed? Travel destination? Favorite road trip perhaps?

The southern part of Kyushu, Japan. I drove more than 1,000 kilometers on a right-hand drive highway, possibly the most epic and challenging road trip I’ve experienced. Filled with amazing landscapes and leads to a place of peaceful atmosphere and spiritual ambiance.

What music do you like to listen when you edit images? And can you name artists?

I like rock, reggae and jazz music. As I answer all these questions, TOOL is playing on the background.

What is your dream photo shoot, dream photo assignment?

Hmmm… you know to be honest, I haven’t thought about it. My dream photoshoot would be in a place that is peaceful and quiet; somewhere calm, somewhere I feel at peace with my spirit. My dream is simple. It’s where I feel that I can create and be connected with my inner self. Hence, my photography is not based on location, rather a search for wisdom.

#fotografíaSpotlight © Raymond Cruz, Fine Art Photographer

Name atleast 2-3 Filipino photographers you look up to?

Emmanuel Tolentino Santos, Allan Razo, lastly Red Ognita. I am grateful to have a partner that doesn’t tolerate my mistake and inspires me to be more creative.

Do you ever get burned out? If yes, what helps you get back into the creative process?

Yes, most of the time. The feeling of burning out is 100% real, hitting a roadblock is no fun at all. Sometimes walking away physically, spiritually, and mentally is the best way. Most of the time I go to the seaside to contemplate or listen to a specific song to meditate. I get back my creativity in silence.

Non-photography related, any other hobbies you love to do?

I like music, I spend a lot of my free time playing drums and acoustic guitar. I’m also a Honda fanatic, I used to customize bikes and civic as well.

#fotografíaSpotlight © Raymond Cruz, Fine Art Photographer

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

1. Know thyself! It’s enlightenment; not knowing oneself is the greatest failure in life. Everything is merely an illusion, the only real thing is yourself.
2. Go deeper not wider; that’s where you’ll find authentic happiness and satisfaction.
3. Know your purpose. Having no goals you’ll end up just floating around.
4. Look for a mentor! Noise is so massive nowadays, best is to spend time with people who walk the storm because not everything is found on Youtube.

Any photography project or discipline would you like to do after the enhanced community quarantine?

I have an upcoming solo exhibit entitled “Everything About Nothing” at One Gallery and a group exhibition in Vetro Gallery last quarter of this year.

Any message to fellow creatives during the pandemic?

Let’s aspire to use our creativity with purpose. This pandemic is an opportunity to improve ourselves and inspire all who cross our path to bring light to others.

Be safe and stay home with your family.

#fotografíaSpotlight All images © Raymond Cruz and used with permission. To see more of his work, you may visit his website and follow his Instagram.