career , “ It is important for a photographer to be able to talk to everyone , make human connections and handle situations in a calm and professional manner .”
When approaching a shoot , Bonillas first looks to music to sonically “ mimic the vibe ” of his visual aspiration . Next , he peruses his preferred fashion magazines to solidify his creative direction . From there he will assemble a team , sharing Pinterest mood boards to navigate the visual execution of his idea . “ My process is simple ,” he divulged , “ I obsess over a concept , assemble a team , and then have fun and get lost in the experience .”
“ I am lucky enough to have a few stylists , makeup and hair artists that I can work with depending on what style I want for a shoot . Sometimes stylists will approach me with a creative team ,” Bonillas elaborated .
While New York City and Los Angeles are often viewed as ‘ cream of the crop ’ cities for artists to aspire toward , Bonillas feels that Phoenix offers “ great opportunity ”. “ I ’ ve been talking to people , and the overflow from L . A . is , they think , starting to leak into the evergrowing city of Phoenix ,” he explained .
Since ringing in the New Year , Bonillas has already shot three editorials that have been selected for publication . “ I feel a shift in my style which is exciting ,” he shared , “ Like a musician , it is still my voice but a whole new album and sound .”
His foreseeable plans ? Bonillas said exuberantly , “ Onward and upward !”