The Universidad Europea del Atlántico (European University of the Atlantic, UNEATLANTICO) received the renowned editorial and commercial photographer José Gegúndez, who offered an enriching talk to the students of the degrees in Communication. Recognized for his work with the Royal House and prominent figures of international entertainment, Gegúndez addressed his professional career, the relevance of visual culture and the keys to success in photojournalism.
The photographer recalled that he started his career in 2001 «by making mistakes and trying again». His first work was in the course of the Opera de Madrid and, since then, he has collaborated with agencies such as Cover and international media. He has portrayed such personalities as Angelina Jolie, Laetitia Casta and members of several European royal houses. «It is a way of becoming part of history», he said.
During his speech he spoke about the essence of his profession: I like to take pictures. No one should force you to choose the profession you want». He stressed that being a photographer involves passion, discipline and an individual perspective, indispensable elements to differentiate oneself in an environment where «everyone takes photos, but not everyone is a photographer».
Gegúndez stressed the importance of knowing the protocols, knowing who are the important characters and behaving properly at events. He also explained that, although he considers himself shy, he has had to learn how to communicate with the people he portrays: «You have to convey security, explain what you want and establish a dialogue».
The students of the degree in Audiovisual Communication (CA), Advertising and Public Relations (PRP) and Journalism (PER), received with special interest their reflection on audiovisual culture, influenced by impressionism. For him, the portrait is above all a way of seeing: «Photography is in the eyes. If you don’t have eyes, it doesn’t matter which camera you use». He also explained the current functioning of the agencies and the importance of valuing one’s own work.
Finally, she presented her personal project Mujeres de cine, an initiative that seeks to make visible all the women who make a film possible, beyond the red carpet. «I want the women of cinema to speak, all of them», he concluded.