What is it about photography that captures everyone’s attention? With a snap of a camera we hold on to a moment of life that meant something to us. So what does it mean to be a photographer? To be someone that just doesn’t want to point and shoot and take pictures of their food to put on Instagram?

In my new features of the year, “Livin’ La Vida“, I dissect and get to know talented people and their skills to showcase what they love, create and aspire to do.

William Callan, born and raised in a small town outside of San Diego, this SoCal native is headed for a bright future. With nothing but a camera and his imagination, this fashion photographer is taking pics and making a name for himself. So let’s find out more about him.

Tell me a little bit about your upbringing, background?

“I was born and raised in a smallish town outside of San Diego. It really kept me down to earth and taught me about nature and open spaces. I learned a lot about myself since I was able to grow up in a rural setting.”

So what made you take up photography?

“I never really knew my grandfather because he suffered from some form of memory loss, so when I was a kid I just assumed that it was normal and that one day I would forget my memories as well. I saw photography as a way to preserve my memories so when I forgot them I could go back and look at the photos. I grabbed a camera in hope that I could find myself later in my old age.”

How inspiring! So what type of photographer do you call yourself?

“I consider myself a people photographer. I don’t like to get more specific than that because I’m always open to new experiences with my work.”

Since you’ve been into photography for a while now, which photographers do you look up to?

“I look up to any photographer that can make their subjects feel like life long friends even though they’ve just met.”

What inspires you?

• Sunlight
• Beers in the afternoon
• Skinny Dipping
• Trampolines
• Authentic smiles
• Sleeping under the stars

What are your favorite things to shoot?

“I love shooting real people. I want to shoot people that are comfortable in their own environment and know how to let loose and have fun. ”

Come back next week for Part II of “Livin’ La Vida: William Callan” to find out his dream job, how he handles negative criticism and his favorite quote. Make sure to check out his website WilliamCallan.com for more great shots.

All photographs by William Callan.