July: Through the Lens Beyond The Crowd

July’s Rise Behind the Lens

INTERVIEW BY: EMILY ARAUZA

     JAN 6th,  2025

“Make yourself stand out,” July explains.  His approach flips the typical concert and event photography script—while others chase the spectacle, he locks in on the faces that blend into the shadows, the raw moments that most eyes skip over. His work isn’t about loud visuals; it’s about mood, instinct, and finding beauty in what’s left unseen.

From shooting portraits of friends to carving out a style defined by dark tones, sharp instincts, and cinematic flair, July’s journey is driven by creative hunger and unfiltered passion. Each frame is a reflection of his obsession with storytelling and his refusal to blend into the noise.

In this conversation, we talk about trusting instinct, turning a creative curse into a superpower, and why standing out isn’t about the gear you use but the vision you bring. This is a look inside July’s mind—where confidence, discipline, and quiet ambition collide to shape every shot.

July: “My name is july and i'm a photographer, I do event, concert, and portrait photography.”

Emily Arauza: “Event, concert, and portrait photography are all so different in energy and style. What inspired you to get into photography, and how did you find yourself working in these areas?”

J: “What inspired me to get into photography was my creative drive. I really strive to create things that inspire people and stand out. I started doing portrait photography because of my friends, I used them as test subjects and learned camerawork by doing so. Then eventually I moved on to concert photography and event photography, that's where I can put my own creative twist on shots I take.”

EA: “I love how it all started with just photographing your friends. Was there a specific moment when you realized photography was more than just a hobby, or did it kind of grow into something bigger over time? And with your concert and event shots, you mentioned putting your own creative twist on them—how would you describe your style? What makes people look at a photo and know it’s yours?”

J: There wasn’t a specific moment when I realized it was gonna be more than a hobby, I honestly just dove deeper and deeper in photography itself over time. After every shoot I fall more and more in love with it. My style with event and concert photography is emphasizing the best moments and letting the editing take over the rest. I love b&w and other darker colors. Most photographers focus on the crowd, but I focus on those you don't notice inside the crowd. Those shots are crucial.”

EA: “I love that—falling deeper in love with photography after every shoot. It’s such a genuine way to grow into your craft. Your style sounds so intentional, especially focusing on the people in the crowd that others overlook. That’s such a unique perspective! What draws you to those quieter, unnoticed moments instead of the big, obvious ones most photographers go for? I’m curious—what about black-and-white and darker tones speaks to you? Is it the mood, the drama, or something else entirely?”

J: “it creates a personal, VISUAL memory for those who attend the events I shoot. Not only does it capture someone's raw emotions during the event, but in the long run creates opportunities for new clientele.”

EA: “That’s such a powerful way to look at it—creating a personal, visual memory for people. It’s like you’re not just documenting the event; you’re telling a story through those raw, emotional moments. I love that it’s both about capturing something meaningful for the audience and opening doors for new opportunities. When you’re in the middle of a live event, how do you decide which moments to focus on? Is it instinct, or do you go in with a vision of what you want to capture?”

J: “I love black and white, I love everything dark. The mood it sets is very unique compared to the bright and flashy photos you’d expect. I think “quiet” is the best way you could’ve described my photo style. Definitely instinct. Some moments are more noticeable than others, but i'm always locked in on the crowd to notice potential golden shots.”

EA: “It’s so interesting that instinct drives you. It must take a sharp eye and a lot of focus to catch those hidden, golden moments in a crowd. Do you feel like photography has changed the way you see things, even outside of shooting events? Like, do you find yourself noticing details in everyday life that others might miss?”

J: “Most definitely, anywhere I go I picture shots I could've took; a blessing and a curse in my opinion.”

EA: “t’s like you’re always seeing life through a lens, even when you’re not holding a camera. That’s such a cool way to experience the world, but I get how it could be both a blessing and a curse. Do you ever find it hard to turn that part of your brain off, or do you just embrace it as part of who you are now?”

J: “For sure yea, I think highly of myself because of the high standards I set. I always meet them eventually and I'm always proud of myself. Be confident in yourself and your abilities and it will show in your work.”

EA: “Believing in yourself and your abilities really does show in your work. Setting high standards and meeting them takes much trust in your own growth. Has there been a time when that confidence was tested? How did you keep pushing forward?”

J: “I think the only time my confidence is tested is talking to people and making connections. Although it's crucial I struggle at introducing myself and meeting others like myself. I keep conversations at a minimal when I'm working on my craft, so even if it helps me focus, it also reduces the amount of connections I could make. I'm VERY grateful for the connections i've made so far, they push me to go harder.”

EA: “That makes a lot of sense—connecting with people can be its own challenge, especially when you’re so locked in on your craft. It’s like balancing focus with being open to new opportunities. But the fact that you’re still making those connections, even if it’s not always easy, says so much about your determination. What’s been the most meaningful connection you’ve made so far, and how has it influenced your work or perspective?”

J: “The best connection i've made with anybody is my friend Braxx, I've known him since my freshman year in highschool. Our drive is unmatched. He always pushes me to go harder, and I push him as well. i've made other friends along the way but he has always supported whatever I do.” 

EA: “It’s amazing to have someone like that in your corner, someone who really pushes you to be your best. What’s one piece of advice or motivation Braxx has given you that’s stuck with you the most?”

J: “He told me that people will EVENTUALLY catch on as long as you put your work out as much as possible. sitting on work and never putting it out will only drag you down.”

EA: “That’s real advice—putting yourself out there consistently is how people finally catch on. Sitting at work only holds you back, and it’s great that he reminded you of that. So, I’m curious—how old were you when you first started getting serious about photography, and how has the journey been so far? And looking ahead, what do you see for yourself in the future? What’s the next big step you’re working toward?”

J: “I was 17 when I first started photography, best decision i've ever made. In the future I see myself shooting movie covers, magazines, and weddings. My goal is to have those be regular shoots on my calendar.”

EA: “17—that’s amazing. It must feel so rewarding knowing that taking that leap was the best decision you’ve ever made. I love how clear your vision is for the future, too—movie covers, magazines, weddings. Seeing those kinds of shoots filling up your calendar sounds like a dream turning into a routine. What do you think it’ll take to get there? Any specific steps or plans you’re focused on to make it happen?”

J: “It'll take a great amount of determination and discipline that's for sure, but never has any of those been an issue. I definitely plan on expanding my range of photography and being more experimental.”

EA: “That’s where some of the best creative breakthroughs happen. What’s one type of shoot or project you haven’t done yet that you’re excited to try?”

J: “Great question, I honestly haven't thought about what I really wanna try. if anything i'd wanna try more shots that are out of my comfort zone.”

EA: “It sounds like you’re always looking for ways to push yourself, which is inspiring. If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting out in photography—maybe something you wish you had known when you first picked up a camera—what would it be?”

J:  “Make yourself stand out from others. Anyone can buy a camera and take photos, but having your own creative input on the photos you take will help dramatically.”

EA: “That’s the truth—anyone can take a photo, but it’s your creative voice that sets you apart. It’s the difference between snapping a moment and creating something unforgettable. Anything else on your mind? Any final thoughts or words about your journey, your next move, or how you want your work to speak to the world?”

J: “My next move is to make more. Thank you so much for your time and putting this interview together.”