Gomez is a freelance photographer who moved to Washington in 2003 from Caracas, Venezuela. During his 19 years as a photographer, he has traveled the world collecting images for work and pleasure.
So talk about your work — what do you do?
I am a professional photographer and photo editor. Most of my work is in D.C., where I cover events, Hill functions and the occasional wedding. I love to do portraits and have a special affinity for anything architecture related.
Washington is such an over-photographed city — is it hard to come up with original images?
Yes and no. As strange as it might sound, there are many people that have no idea that there is a Chinatown in the District. The National Basilica — a stunning piece of architecture — is a surprise to many long-time Washingtonians. I make it a point of going out every day and finding images that represent the city, beyond the monuments and the museums. The neighborhoods are also rich in characters and places, especially small businesses. Sometimes originality has more to do with the way you show things.
How has the recession affected photographers? Is it getting better?
Freelance photographers never had it easy and you are always out there working to earn a living and keep your clients. The bigger effect on professional photographers is the role of digital photography. Good cameras are much more affordable and this has turned everyone into a photographer of sorts.
Were you ever in a situation where you wished you had your camera but you left it at home?
I always carry a camera with me. It is more a matter of wishing that I had brought a different lens with me!
– Julie Mason
