We recently had the chance to connect with Gary Barragan and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Gary , we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think a frequent misunderstanding about my business is that headshots can be done by anyone. Technically yes, any photographer should be able to produce a decent headshot, but when you hire a photographer specialized in headshots you’re going to get far more than just a “decent” picture. You’re going to walk away with an image that’s expertly crafted to capture your personality, command attention, and build trust at a glance.
A specialist understands how to coach authentic expression, shape light for the face, guide posture and angles down to the millimeter, and create an environment where your confidence naturally comes through. It’s the difference between taking a picture and creating a powerful first impression.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Gary Barragan, an award-winning portrait artist and Louisville’s go-to headshot photographer. Through Gary Barragan Photography, I create expertly crafted headshots for business professionals, entrepreneurs, actors, and corporate teams — images designed to do more than just look good, but to help you stand out and be remembered.
What sets my work apart is the intentionality behind every frame, from expression coaching and precise lighting to guiding posture and presence, I shape images that radiate confidence, polish, and approachability. My goal isn’t just to capture how you look, but to reveal who you are and the story you want the world to see. I want everyone I photograph to stand out, be remembered and make an impact.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My father, he’s always been a cornerstone of encouragement and drive. It wasn’t until I was a young adult that I started to realize the artistic talents I posses. And through the years since, he’s always been there for advice, guidance and support. I don’t think I would be where I am today if it wasn’t for him.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
If you never fail, you never learn. All of my failures have taught me something, whether it’s how to light a scene for a particular mood or how to handle certain situations. In every failure, there’s a lesson to be learned. You just have to be patient enough to understand what caused the failure and how you can improve from it.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My family, our happiness and prosperity. My passion for work and always striving to improve.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m in the comfort of my family and our two fur babies.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://garybarragan.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photobygaryb/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garybarragan/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/garybarraganphotography
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/gary-barragan-photography-louisville
