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 combine hands-on content creation with a strategic mindset—bringing a rare mix of on-camera presence, scripting ability, and even design—creating UGC that feels natural but can be backed by strategy. My background as an agency Creative Director means I can concept big ideas, write compelling copy, and handle every stage of production, from planning to polished photo and video assets.
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.
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?
Stay at the CD job for AT&T. I wasn't excited about the work and left, but the pay was immense.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
Business acquisition, to better cultivate relationships into revenue.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
Lifestyle photo and video work for brands, working on retainer for a quarterly basis.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
Ideal client would be a health and wellness focussed beverage brand. Creating quarterly content on retainer for photo and video work to be used on digital and social.
Q: What is your rate?
$200/hr.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
connect@gabegphotos.com
www.gabegphotos.com
Would like an intro to include budget and scope.
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.