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

Hi Amy, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I started this business to create a space where the people in my community could come together to express themselves, learn, and grow.

I saw a real need for a place that genuinely supports local artists, photographers, and creatives at every level. All Facez Studio was built to be more than just a studio—it’s a platform for creativity, collaboration, and culture. Whether you’re picking up a camera for the first time or showcasing your work for the hundredth, this space was made for you! I want this to feel like a creative home–full of energy, opportunity, and endless possibilities.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
This journey hasn’t been easy. I didn’t come from money – I come from an immigrant family and I’m a first-generation college graduate from California State University, Los Angeles. English was my second language growing up, so I had to learn how to navigate and speak up in spaces that weren’t always built for people like me. Everything I’ve built has come from hard work, faith, and the support of my community. That’s why this space means so much — it’s proof that with heart and hustle,anything is possible. It took a lot of hard “No’s” to get to where I am today. I believe that sometimes things don’t happen when you want them to because they’re not meant to happen just yet! I want the world to know that hard work, dedication, and patience will take you far. This place isn’t just four walls – it’s a story of motion.

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.
If my best friend were visiting LA for a week, I’d make sure they got the full, flavorful, and soul-filling experience.
Day 1: First stop—tacos. You can’t come to LA and not indulge. We’d hit up Tacos El Gali, our amazing neighbors at All Facez Studio, for their tacos al vapor (they’re pure magic). Then swing over to Tacos El Nazo in Bellflower for their bomb fish tacos—thank me later.

Day 2: We’d explore the Arts District, grab a scoop of Salt & Straw (you haven’t lived ‘til you’ve tried their honey lavender), and take a quick walk to Little Tokyo for snacks and vintage shopping. It’s the perfect blend of culture, food, and photo ops.

Day 3: Time for a scenic reset. I’d take them on a cruise down the Pacific Coast Highway—windows down, music up. We’d stop for a picnic at the Korean Friendship Bell in San Pedro with the ocean as our backdrop. It’s peaceful, grounding, and so LA.

Day 4: LA mornings call for good caffeine—Stagger has the best matcha around. We’d slow-roll into the day with a walk along the beach or a stroll through Echo Park.

Day 5: Music is a must. We’d find a cozy local show at The Wiltern or catch a jazz set at a hidden gem in Leimert Park. Then finish the night at Vista Theater, watching a 35mm print of a cult classic with popcorn in hand.

Day 6 & 7: The final stretch would be all about spontaneity—maybe a flea market, maybe a rooftop bar downtown. The beautiful thing about LA is there’s always something going on: art shows in K-Town, open mics in Highland Park, or a sunset hike up to the Griffith Observatory.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My friends constantly remind me to keep creating and stay true to myself. Their support, encouragement, and belief in my vision have pushed me forward, especially when I doubted myself. They reminded me to ‘just do me’— and that’s exactly what I’m doing and not second-guessing. Sometimes you just have to go for it. It’s better to try than to never have tried. This space is as much a reflection of them as it is of me.

Website: https://www.allfacezstudio.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allfacezstudio/

Other: https://www.peerspace.com/pages/listings/687ac5558f96ddecec6cdd84

Image Credits
Amy’s personal photo – Jaylin Williams, Co-founder of All Facez Studio
All other photos – Amy Castro, Founder of All Facez Studio

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.