We had the good fortune of connecting with Patrick Quezada and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Patrick, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand has been my commitment to constantly pushing myself outside of my comfort zone. I believe that the moment you feel too comfortable is the moment you stop growing. Whether it’s learning a new skill, saying yes to opportunities that scare me a little, or evolving creatively, that drive to keep challenging myself has kept my work fresh, authentic, and aligned with where I want to go. Growth doesn’t happen in the safe zone—it happens when you take risks and keep evolving.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
hotography has always been more than just a job for me—it’s my way of preserving emotion and telling stories with honesty and beauty. As a wedding photographer, I aim to create images that are both artful and deeply personal. I’m drawn to natural light, meaningful details, and the quiet, in-between moments that speak volumes. My style leans toward fine art, but at its core, my work is about connection and intention.

I feel incredibly grateful to have spent four years working alongside industry legends like Jose Villa, Joel Serrato, and Lacie Hansen. Watching them work, learning from their creative process, and experiencing the care and excellence they brought to every wedding was invaluable. Their mentorship shaped how I see, how I shoot, and how I carry myself as an artist.

Starting my own brand was exciting but also humbling—it meant stepping out on my own, pushing past doubt, and staying true to my vision even when the path wasn’t always clear.

Today, what means the most to me is the trust my clients place in me to document some of their most intimate and meaningful moments. That trust is everything. My goal is to create work that’s timeless, honest, and full of heart—something that resonates long after the day has passed.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I was born and raised in the beautiful city of Santa Barbara, so whenever someone visits, I make it my mission to show them why this place will always have my heart. If we had a whole week, I’d start with a slow morning walk along Butterfly Beach followed by breakfast at Jeannine’s in Montecito. From there, we’d head up to the Santa Barbara Courthouse for that iconic panoramic view of the city—it never gets old.

We’d definitely spend an afternoon wine tasting in the Funk Zone, then stroll along State Street and pop into some local shops and galleries. For dinner, we’d hit up The Lark—hands down one of the best dining experiences in town—and maybe wrap the evening with drinks at the rooftop bar at the Kimpton Canary Hotel.

One day would be reserved for a scenic drive up the coast through the Santa Ynez Valley, stopping at a winery or two and ending the day with sunset at El Capitan State Beach. The rest of the week would be a mix of relaxing, exploring, and enjoying the slower pace that makes Santa Barbara so special. It’s a magical blend of coastal charm, natural beauty, and a touch of elegance—just enough to make anyone fall in love with it.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have to give a huge shoutout to Jose Villa and Joel Serrato—two incredible mentors who played such a big role in shaping who I am as a photographer. I had the honor of working alongside them for four years, capturing some of the most beautiful weddings all over the world. Their artistry, discipline, and generosity set the standard for how I approach my work and my business. I also want to thank my family for always believing in me, and my partner Raul, who keeps me inspired and constantly pushes me to grow and become the best version of myself. His support, love, and encouragement have been everything.

Website: https://www.patrickquezada.com

Instagram: @patrickquezada

Other: email: patrick@patrickquezada.com

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