Meet Libertad Rodriguez | Architectural / Interior Design Photographer

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

Hi Libertad, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
It was a mix of emotions: engagement, excitement, curiosity, but also fears and doubts. Starting a business implied a lot of effort for me, hours of planning and creating, at a time in my life when my second child was born. It was totally a bet on what I believed could be a successful journey. Even though I knew I wanted to do something that, for me, is more than a job; it is my passion, my awesome thing to do. When I was studying Architecture at the School of Architecture of Havana, I realized I used to spend quite a bit of time looking at interior and architecture magazines. I noticed that every time I saw a great picture, I felt many things inside my body. A few years later, I believed I wanted to evoke the same feelings with my work in those who see it, and that was the boost for me at that moment and still is today.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am an Architectural Designer who runs a business specializing in Architectural and Interior Design Photography. I do feel that my degree in Architecture gives me a unique vision of what my clients are looking for in their projects. I believe photographers have a huge responsibility in how projects will be showcased to the public for a long time. My goal is to capture the creators’ perspectives and convey all the emotions of the space through my images.

The practice, continuous work, and diverse scenarios I have shot have shaped my professional journey. Attracting leads and clients is always challenging, especially as a foreign Latin woman navigating a new language and culture while raising two small children. It was not easy at all. Consistency and perseverance are key to achieving any goal, and that is what I have relied on throughout my career.

I have learned many lessons during my business. The first is to adapt to different circumstances and scenarios. Learning from errors is one of the best ways to grow and improve.

I previously mentioned that I experience strong feelings when I see an amazing architectural or interior photograph. Many sensations awaken in me; it’s literally a breathtaking feeling. This is exactly what I aim to capture in all my images. I want the viewer to have the same experience as I do and feel all the magic the space has to offer. This is what I strive for in every photoshoot. This is why I do what I do. This is why I chose this business. I feel beyond happiness when my client says, “WOW, amazing!” That reaction makes it all worthwhile.

I encourage everyone to try to live their passion. For me, this is the key to success and happiness. When you pursue your passion every day, it doesn’t feel like work; instead, it feels like you’re enjoying your life.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Museums of Arts, my favorites places. Perez Art Museum (PAM) in Miami and Norton Art Museum in West Palm Beach are my favorite places to go. Both are designed by renowned Architects and The spaces are incredibly pleasant. I also have two spots I love for eating: Divieto (Doral, Miami) and Doya (Winwood, Miami) and for having fun at night: Salamander Miami, it is a special night place with lots of live music and full of art.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I owe who I am now to many key people who supported me from the beginning and throughout my journey. First and foremost, my family, especially my husband Gabriel, who has always supported every idea and decision I’ve made. My parents, who have given me unconditional support, and my second parents, Cary and Llanes, who encouraged me to push forward no matter what.

Additionally, there are four individuals whose support I am particularly grateful for. My university professors: Dr. Maria Victoria Zardoya, who instilled in me the importance of outstanding photography for teaching architecture, and Dr. Isabel Rigol, who introduced me to the vast world of photography and motivated me to participate in photography contests where I won several prizes.

When I decided to become an architectural photographer professionally, Architect Stephanie Halfen was an incredible support. She believed in me, provided me with equipment, and allowed me to photograph her designs when I had no experience. She also spread the word to her colleagues, which helped me grow. I will always appreciate her generosity.

Another significant person is Architect Sergio Artigues, who not only believed in me but also mentored me selflessly. His encouragement is still invaluable.

Last but not least, I am grateful for meeting an amazing person: Rayma García. She offers unwavering support behind the scenes and encourages me regardless of the circumstances.
All of them has been a crucial factor in my journey.

Website: https://www.phlservice.com

Instagram: @phlphotography

Other: Email: phl@phlservice.com
Cellphone: 786.315.1358

Image Credits
Photo credit of Architecture and Interior Photos: Libertad Rodriguez / PHL & Services.LLC
Photo credit of Libertad working: Rayma García
Photo Credit of Libertad and Rayma working: Debbie Flicki / BBH Studios