Today we’d like to introduce you to Jo Blanco
Hi jo, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Hello and thank you for the opportunity. Prior to my career in photography, my focus was on athletics. I played Quarterback at Univ. at Chattanooga. My playing days came to an end in 1983. It was then my soul searching began. I always had an interest in Motion Pictures. I had quick talk with my brother, Julio, an award winning Creative Director with his own Ad Agency and we agreed, to learn film I had to learn photography. I had never owned a camera in my life. I began my apprenticeship with a nationally recognized photographer in Miami, the late George Contorakes. In just two years I was shooting my own freelance advertising assignments. In 1995 I moved back to NYC, my birthplace, to further my career in Photography. All was going great until 9-11 came and photographers were the lowest on the totem pole. In 2005 I moved back to Miami, and started shooting weddings. There were very few wedding photographers in Miami and I introduced my NYC street photography skills into the wedding scene, what is now referred to as photojournalistic wedding photography ? In 2013 I started production on my written, produced and directed, Zero Budget indie feature film. In Nov of 2018 I screened the premiere of Key Lime Voodoo, at the famed Tower Theatre in Miami. Soon after I signed a contract with an L.A. based film agent and we found a distributor to take on my film. Key Lime Voodoo, (KLV) can now be watched on multiple streaming platforms, including Amazon and Tubi. Presently I still work mostly as an event photographer/videographer/editor and manage 12 social media sites for my personal, business and KLV.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Its never a smooth road when you have been freelancing as long as I have. Everything from a bad economy during a recession, stolen portfolios, terrorist attacks, digital revolutions, family illnesses, etc.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a professional photographer/videographer and filmmaker . I specialize in people photography on location.
Im known for being a local Miami/New York photographer and filmmaker. Most proud of staying in business for 40 years as a creative freelancer. Biggest personal achievement, Writing Producing and Directing a feature independent film on a Zero Budget and getting distribution. What sets me apart, communication skills, leadership in working with crews, getting things done, and dedication to my profession.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
No
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.joblanco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joblancophoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joblanco19/
- Youtube: @joblanco9242
