My Story
I have always been influenced by the arts in one way or another. My grandfather always had a camera hanging from his neck while I was growing up, capturing moments from the trips my family would take every summer. He would then make oil paintings from photos that inspired him, most of which are currently hanging in my home and the homes of my parents and brothers. My oldest brother, Ovidio Giberga, is a ceramic sculptor who heads the ceramics program at University of Texas, San Antonio. He has made a name for himself in the ceramic art community.
My original career path did not take me toward photography, or the arts for that matter. I obtained my bachelor's degree in Social Work and my master's degree in Public Administration from the University of South Florida. I have been employed in the Human Services field for over 10 years (specifically, substance abuse and mental health programming) and have performed in a number of roles such as case manager, program supervisor, program compliance auditor for the state, intake coordinator, and counselor, to name a few.
Still, artistic expression has always been a part of my life. I have been playing the drums since I was 14 years old. I played in small bands in my teens and then more professionally at my church. I started dabbling in photography while attending college after buying a small digital point-and-shoot. The technology in that little camera amazed me and I was able to take some truly incredible photos with it. I knew I wanted more. When I finally bought my first DSLR camera I really began to explore the world of photography as an art and form of expression. It wasn't long before I started thinking about taking photography to a professional level. I taught myself technical concepts and techniques by studying books and guides at first. I then completed an on-line course in digital photography through iPhotographycourse.com and received my certificate. As a fledgling photographer I feel I'm now at the point where I can grow a business out of this passion I have for photography.
My Grandfather, Ovidio Giberga, with one of his many paintings.
Me, playing the bongos as a little kid.
One of my favorite pics from my point-and-shoot.
My Philosophy
I believe that relationship is everything.
In my years working in the Human Services field I have learned that in order to be healthy and alive a person must understand the relationships they have with the world around them. To do so, they must first explore the nature of those relationships.
I define relationships as the dynamic connections we have to persons, objects, entities, or concepts surrounding our lives. These relationships influence us in many ways: by inspiring us, by challenging our preconceived notions and shaping our attitudes, by comforting us, and even giving us direction. Our relationships give us roles to play and as we do so, we influence others in our lives and affect the world around us.
Without relationship, it would be difficult (or maybe impossible) to know who we are, or where we are going.
Photography has become a way for me to explore my relationship to the world around me. I am able to express my relationships through pictures: what I see and feel about people; my curiosity about -and adoration for- the natural world; my exploration of divine creation.
Dan Giberga Photography is a way for me to explore new relationships. I can sit down with my clients and get to know how they see the world and their place in it. I can help them create images which hopefully express more than just a moment; they express a connection to a part of the world which is uniquely theirs.
For more information on my work, to get in touch regarding employment opportunities, or to just say hello, feel free to contact me.