Roberto Pastoriza, 

Photographer / drone pilot

 A very brief history

My fascination with photography ignited when I acquired my very first 35mm camera back in 1986. This marked the beginning of an enthralling artistic journey that would shape my life in the years to come. Gradually, my passion led me to pursue an AA in Commercial Photography from The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, a milestone I achieved in 1993. During my time there, I honed my skills and expertise in working with 4x5 View Cameras, particularly in the realm of meticulous in-studio product photography.

Between 1998 and 2012, I had the privilege of curating a series of captivating art photography exhibitions in the heart of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. These exhibitions showcased my diverse portfolio, which included accomplishments such as designing book covers, contributing to newspapers and magazines, and even delivering enlightening lectures at prestigious universities and photography schools. These lectures delved into the intricacies of photographic art and its intriguing scientific foundations.

One standout moment in my journey occurred in August 2013, when I participated in the Sports Illustrated Style Photoshoot held on the picturesque shores of Miami Beach. This remarkable event was orchestrated by the esteemed commercial photographer Kevin Michael Schmitz, known for his work in both LA and NYC. Collaborating with models from top-tier agencies like FORD, Elite, Whilamina, and NEXT, this venture resulted in the showcasing of our work within the pages of the September issue of LA Fashion Magazine. Beyond the visual success, this experience served as a crucible for refining my lighting techniques, overcoming logistical challenges, and mastering the orchestration of large-scale productions with professionalism and ease.

My lens has since shifted its focus toward the delectable world of food photography, where I've been fortunate to collaborate with prominent platforms like UberEats, Grubhub, and DoorDash since 2016. Over the years, I've had the privilege of catering to the visual needs of more than 4000 restaurants, cultivating a diverse clientele.

One particularly fulfilling milestone in my journey was obtaining my drone pilot certificate. This achievement not only opened the door to a realm of innovation and artistic expression but also underscored the importance of responsible drone operations, airspace awareness, and safety protocols as outlined by the FAA's regulations and guidelines. This certification not only enriched my skill set but also renewed my appreciation for the significance of safe and ethical drone flying.

For over twenty-five years, photography has remained my unwavering passion. It transcends the realm of mere craftsmanship for me; it's a steadfast commitment to capturing the essence of each moment, to distill the profound narratives and boundless creativity encapsulated within every frame I capture.