Meet Gio Soto | Photographer & Creative Director

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

Hi Gio, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued a creative career because it was the only path that ever felt true to me. I started with music- teaching myself drums and obsessing over rhythm throughout my early years. By high school, I practically lived in the art room, skipping class just to experiment with new mediums and chase inspiration. Growing up in New York City, I was constantly surrounded by creative energy- from graffiti on the streets to underground shows and galleries. That environment shaped me. Creativity wasn’t just an option- it was expression and identity all in one.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art grows as I do—but photography has always been at the core of it. I’m drawn to contrast: the softness of moody portraits, the grit of street culture, and the pull of nature. These elements reflect what inspires me personally, and I try to bring them into everything I create.

Over the years, I’ve adapted my style to serve different worlds—whether I’m telling stories for brands, capturing moments for music artists, or shooting visual campaigns for restaurants. I’ve learned that success in photography rarely comes easy. So I’ve made it my mission to stay versatile, push my creative boundaries, and offer value wherever I can.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Two of my favorite spots in Dallas are Bishop Arts and White Rock Lake. Bishop Arts is one of the few walkable areas in DFW, and it’s full of culture—shops, food, music, and good energy whether it’s day or night. It has that creative, community vibe I’m always drawn to.

On the other hand, White Rock Lake is my escape. The nature and scenery around there make you forget you’re even in Dallas. It’s peaceful, inspiring, and the perfect reset when I need space to think or create.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Big shoutout to New York City—my first creative mentor. From the graffiti I saw as a kid, to walking through the high-fashion streets of SoHo, the city shaped my creative vision before I even knew it was happening. It gave me contrast, culture, and constant inspiration. NYC taught me that creativity has no boundaries—it can live on a canvas, a wall, a runway, or a subway platform. That energy still drives everything I do.

Website: https://www.gioxsoto.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/thegiosoto

Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/gioxsoto

Twitter: https://x.com/gioxsoto

Youtube: https://youtube.com/giosoto