HOT SPOT: Romina Caluste

Who is Romina Caluste?

Romina is one of the admin of the premiere tri-media organization Helios Project International. It was at Helios' XPC Challenge where I first met her. I was really anxious to meet her but who wouldn't be? Her expertise in her chosen craft is evidenced by her exquisite work in shooting music or concert events.

Our acquaintance may have been short but it was undoubtedly filled with substantial tips in improving someone else's perceived hobby into passion.

And for you to get to know her more, I am having her as guest in my feature multimedia interview popularly known as Hot Spot.

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Name / Alias: Romina Caluste
Website: http://romina.caluste.com
Location: Pasig City
Age: 22
Education: Architecture graduate
Genre of Photography: Music Photography


Tell me about yourself that people dont't know:

I took BS Architecture at the University of Santo Tomas. I'm currently working as a 3d Renderer for an architectural firm. I love music. I listen mostly to indie, alternative rock, experimental, pop and acoustic.

I have been doing photography since 2008. I shoot portraits, street photography, travel and music photography. I belong to a photography club, The Helios Project International.

How did you get started in photography? and what camera did you use?

I am fond of taking pictures since I was a kid. I think I first had my own camera when I was 10. I bought my DSLR which I am still using on October 2008. It is a Nikon D40.

How would you characterize the style of your photography?

I really don’t know how to define my style but I tend to capture simple subjects that tell a story.

Who or what influenced you to become a photographer?

No one really influenced me when I first started doing photography. But when I ventured into music photography, Niña Sandejas became my mentor.

How did you become a photographer? And When did your career start as a professional photographer?

I have been shooting gigs and concerts for a while. Usually, those gigs are held in small bars where I can shoot for free. The first event that I covered was SYKES’ Year End Party held at MOA Concert Grounds last December 2011.

Why did you make photography your career?

It is something that I am passionate about, both music and photography.

What makes a good photographer in your opinion?

A good photographer sees things that way a normal person wouldn’t.

 Do You Have A Favorite Walk Around Lens...If So What Is It?

I can’t really answer that question since I only own a kit lens but if you were to ask me what is my ideal walk-around lens, it would be a 17-50mm f/2.8.

What is the most rewarding part of photography?

I think the most rewarding part is when an artist or band appreciates my work.

How did photography change your life?

It led me to places I wouldn't normally explore. Through photography, I met a lot of people from different walks of life whom I share my passion with.


What tips can you give to someone aspiring to be a professional photographer?

Keep on shooting. I still consider myself an aspiring professional photographer since I'm still new in the business.

What are the best tools for a beginner to learn on (besides the camera)?

It depends on what type of photography you're interested in. Try to find inspiration from books, magazine, internet or even see works of other photographers.

What are the pros and cons of being a photographer? Please be specific.

The good thing about being a photographer is that you get to travel, meet a lot of people and see live bands. The bad thing is that you rarely have a photo taken of yourself. Haha!

I know you like traveling for shoot or even for chill-out, can tell me where is the best place to be to do some shoot? and why there?

Being with The Helios Project, we would often do photo walks or organize photo shoots. Some of our usual gatherings are held within the Manila area specifically Binondo, Quiapo or Intramuros. Sometimes we also do nightscape shoots around the metro or attend gigs where we shoot bands.

What goal are you working towards within your photography and when will you know you have reached it?

My goal as a music photographer is to document big events within or outside the country. As my mentor would say, I still have a long way to go.

If you weren't a photographer or a multimedia artist, what would you want to be? Why?

I would be a freelance architectural designer or 3D architectural renderer.

How do you see yourself 20 or 30 yrs from now?

Wow, 20 years is a long time. That's hard to tell but I think I would still be doing architectural stuff and music photography.

Any final message? Its your time to shine..

Please do check out my photo blog, http://romina.caluste.com. It's all about music photography. Also, thank you Axl for the feature :)


Here some of the fantastic shoot of  Romina Caluste.

up dharma down

Ketty Perry Live in Manila

Juan dela Cruz Band