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My first job was a USO fashion shoot in San Juan, Puerto Rico while I was still in high school. That was it. I began shooting and studying. I moved to Houston in 1974. I got the opportunity to join a rock band. Playing drums is my second passion. It was a great experience. We enjoyed quite a bit of success. One great experience was composing the music for several "Rock Ballets" in collaboration with choreographer, James Clouser. In 1980, I decided it was time to explore my photography again. With the help of Frank Golden, I began working as a freelance assistant. That gave me a broad hands-on knowledge of many different types and styles of photography. I was lucky to have worked with some of the best photographers in Houston including Frank Golden, Chas McGrath and Joe Baraban. I was offered the opportunity to work full time, as head assistant with the great photographer, Ron Scott. There I found an intense learning experience. I was involved in every aspect of shooting a wide variety of subject matter and techniques. These included, studio lighting techniques, special effects darkroom work including dye transfer print work and Ektachrome (E-6) processing, and location assignments were part of our daily work. Shoots included annual reports, advertising campaigns, catalogs, brochures and real estate/architectural photography. Subject matter included cars, refineries, models and fashion, product photography, corporate portrait work. My work there also introduced me to computers. I launched my own photography business in 1982. I enjoyed immediate success and soon found myself working with my own clients. Within a year, I was working on projects and applying everything I had learned. Traveling to Europe, the Caribbean and across the United States has given me the opportunity to accumulate a great store of varied stock photographs. In the mid 1980's, the country and specially Houston suffered an economic downturn. Work was slow. I took the opportunity and began working with computer systems design and programming. This business took off and helped me to continue my photographic work at the same time. My experience with computers helped me establish the great capabilities we have now as a digital studio. We have extensive experience working with Photoshop, Illustrator, and a whole suite of other graphics software. I am always looking for new ways to expand our capabilities in the digital field. I have custom designed and built our entire computer system. In 1989, I was called to work with a new client, Hoshino, USA. They are manufacturers of Tama drums and Ibanez guitars. My first assignment for them was the 1989 Tama drum catalog. It was the beginning of great working relationship. Of course, it is a great treat for me to photograph some great musicians. It has been a great experience and has allowed me to apply every bit of the skills I have developed. Lighting a guitar or a drum kit is fun and a great challenge. The different finishes, surfaces and shapes make each shot a great puzzle. I have enjoyed finding fresh ways to shoot live concerts. I've shot such a variety of performers including Billy Joel, Korn, Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Spyro Gira and many others. I always strive to communicate feeling in all my photographs. Technique is only a tool to the always present goal of creating a great photograph. Please contact me. I will be glad to discuss your next project. Thanks for your interest,- Damian Hevia Special thanks to those who contributed to this website:
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