Gabe Gonzalez
Q What do you do?
“I’m a UGC creator and photographer helping brands tell real, relatable stories through short-form video and scroll-stopping visuals. From concept to shoot, I create content that feels native, not forced—and converts.”
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
I started as a designer at agencies working on brands like Nespresso, Verizon, and The Knicks. As I grew into a creative director role, I also taught strategy-based creative at the School of Visual Arts, focusing on how to apply big ideas to social media. Alongside that, I built a freelance business producing content for AT&T and CPG brands. Over time, I shifted toward more hands-on work—photography, UGC, and short-form video—partnering directly with brands to create content that connects with viewers and drives real ROI.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I'm a bit of a unicorn. I design, write, shoot, edit, direct, and can even illustrate too. I combine all these tools to create content with a strategic mindset—bringing a rare mix of on-camera presence. My background as an agency Art and Creative Director means I can think big while handling every stage of production from concept to execution.
Q What are you working on right now?
I’m working on a short documentary highlighting the role of art in Tampa Bay and its impact on local economic development, alongside a few UGC campaigns with health and wellness brands focused on recovery and longevity.
Q What’s your style?
My style leans into soft contrast with warmth for approachability. This makes the work feel relatable and brand-safe without being bland. I target Lifestyle work that's culturally fluid to be emotionally grounded. My approach is to retain a storytelling quality that makes each frame feel like stills from a lived experience, not just posed shots.
My work on Mountain Valley Water reflects this approach.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
Heath & Wellness Industry.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Crafting proposals and sending out project invoices. Is administrative work ever a creative's strong suite?
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Organizing footage, making photo selects and starting off rough edits.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
I wish I had told myself to pick up the camera sooner. I spent so much time behind a screen designing or directing, not realizing how much creative clarity and momentum I’d gain by getting behind the lens. Photography unlocked a more instinctive, personal side of my creativity.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
I’d want to talk to a brand strategist who specializes in scaling emotional connection across platforms—someone who’s mastered turning brand values into systems that actually hold up across content, campaigns, and evolving trends. I understand how to make visuals resonate, but I’m always curious about how strategy shapes perception at scale—and how the most effective brands stay both consistent and culturally relevant in real time.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
Any type of brand photo, video, or design work! For sure love health and wellness brands but I don’t discriminate. I love shooting look books, assets for digital, social etc. A brand that I can personally connect with is always a plus up, and it would be great to work together enough to become an extension of your team as a retainer.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
It’s great when I’m able to get in on the ideation stage and help craft the “why” behind the “what”, as well as help with any script writing.
Q: What is your rate?
It varies on the project, scope, and usage. Not the favorite answer but no two projects are alike. Past prices have been $200 for delivering RAW iPhone footage, $3,000 for a one day photoshoot, and $800-$1,500 per day for an ongoing basis. Happy to discuss monthly retainers and custom pricing per scope as well.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Email me at connect@gabegphotos.com or check out my work and intake form at www.gabegphotos.com
Q Who is a creative you admire?
Andrew Stone — He's extremely talented at what he does, his color correction game is on point, and he cares deeply for everyone he works with. He's also a photographer and videographer.
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Scroll, shoot, scribble, pause— sunlight through a coffee cup, ideas find me.
This member profile was originally published in July 2025.