THE magic of photography lies in its ability to help people somewhat travel back in time and revisit indelible fragments of their lives to re-experience its magic and vibrancy.

Photographs help people remember significant moments in history and their daily lives — both beautiful and tragic — and serve as a souvenir from the past that can be passed down from one generation to the next.

Aside from freezing moments in time through light, photographs also have their way of moving people to action, fostering understanding, and changing behaviors and mindset. Photographs are a universal language, one that everyone can comprehend, and which speak straight to the heart.

This is why many people have become involved with and committed themselves to this type of art. According to 25-year-old James, a street photographer by passion and a teacher by profession, he takes photos of his and others’ mundane lives so he could never forget.

“One reason that really drove me into photography was my grandmother’s Alzheimer’s disease,” he told republicasia. “I could tell in her eyes how frustrated she was whenever she forgets something, especially during the early months of her disease.”

Aside from James, many young people have also ventured in the field of photography for their own personal reasons. Some do it as a hobby to ease their boredom while others want to become professionals. 

Whether as a hobby or a career, navigating this field could be arduous, especially if one is starting without a background in photography.

Because of this, republicasia asked several Gen Z photography enthusiasts to name the local photographers they look up to in order to help photography rookies find their inspirations.

Geloy Concepcion

It wouldn’t be a surprise if most people, especially Gen Zs, know this California-based photographer, videographer and street artist who has become popular because of the film snapshots he shares on his social media accounts.

Geloy Concepcion

Geloy Concepcion’s work is often showcased on his Instagram and Facebook pages, but this project started back in 2019. He called it Things you wanted to say but never did.

Most of Geloy’s works include short handwritten notes and messages about real people’s dilemmas, thoughts, and other sentiments that they found difficult to tell other people.

Photo courtesy: Geloy Concepcion | Things you wanted to say but never did

In an interview with republicasia, Felino, a 22-year-old biology major, shared that he liked Geloy’s photographs because they are “very human.”

“What I like about his works are its natural and unscripted story since street photographer siya, so it captures a raw moment,” Felino, who has three years experience in photography, said. 

“Also, the stories behind his works are very human,” he added.

Geloy is continuously uploading several new pieces in this collection, and this and can be seen in his Instagram account with the handle @geloyconcepcion. 

Bryan Benida

From being a pre-medicine student, Bryan Benida discovered his true calling for photography and has emerged as one of the most prominent sources of inspiration for many aspiring photographers in the country.

Thanks to his masterful photography skills, unwavering determination, and pursuit of excellence, this graphic-artist-slash-photographer was able to produce glamorous images in partnership with big names in various industries.

Bryan Benida

According to 23-year-old communication student Lester, his admiration for Bryan stems from the photographer’s creativity and dedication to his craft.

“Whether he is shooting portraits, landscapes, or still life, Bryan’s images are always infused with a sense of wonder and awe that leave a lasting impression on viewers,” Lester said. 

Another admirable trait that Bryan possesses, as per Lester, is the fact that he remains humble despite all the triumphs he has experienced in the field. Also, what sets this photographer apart from others is his commitment to generating spectacular works of art.

“He is always seeking new and innovative ways to push the boundaries of his craft and create images that are truly extraordinary,” said Lester. “This passion for photography is evident in every image he captures and is a major reason for his success in the industry.”

Bryan’s works can be found on his Behance profile. He also shares some of his portraits on Instagram via @bryanbenidastudio.

Photo courtesy: Bryan Benida

JC Gellidon

This Makati-based independent filmmaker and photographer has been making a name in the industry for his works in several music videos, including PPop girl group YGIG’s Shaba Shaba and PPop boy band SB19’s Go Up.

He has also collaborated with prominent celebrities and artists including Donnalyn Bartolome, Julie Anne San Jose, Jesych, and Ashley Gosiengfiao.

Aside from this, he also uploads videos on his YouTube channel that showcase his astonishing skills as a cinematographer.

With his undeniable talent in both photography and filmmaking, many field aspirants have been looking up to JC and following his footsteps, in the hope of learning from the sensational skills he possesses.

JM, a 21-year-old production specialist, said JC was one of the people who influenced him to pursue a career in the visual arts. 

JC Gellidon

“The versatility and passion demonstrated by JC Gellidon as both a cinematographer and photographer have inspired me to pursue a career in the field,” JM said. “His work continues to serve as a source of motivation and encouragement as I strive to perfect my own skills and techniques.”

JC publishes his photographs on his Instagram account (@jcgellidon) while his portfolio can be viewed through his official website.

Photo courtesy: JC Gellidon