Today we’d like to introduce you to David Torres.
David, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started my photography journey in my 40s. Earlier in life, I had some interest in photography and videography, but I never really took the time to explore it. My background is actually in computer science. Later, I created a small marketing company to help local businesses here in Florida. As part of that work, I began attending events — and soon realized I needed to document them. My stepdaughter had an old DSLR that she wasn’t using, and she generously passed it on to me.
That camera changed everything. I began diving into photography, studying constantly, and eventually decided to fully commit. I got certified, invested in new gear, and began developing my skills so I could truly serve clients’ needs. During that process, I realized something deeply personal: I don’t have any photos from my childhood or teenage years. That realization sparked a passion in me for documenting memories — first for my family, and then for others. I also began collaborating with my church, photographing events and capturing moments that mattered to the community.
Over time, that passion grew into something bigger. About five years ago, I decided it was time to step fully into photography as a business. With the experience I’d gained from previous ventures, I launched Schumann Photography, named after my mother’s maiden name. She has always been an example of strength and perseverance to me. Born in New Jersey, she moved to Puerto Rico, learned a new language, adapted to a new culture, and raised our family there for more than 38 years. Her resilience inspired the foundation of my brand.
Today, I focus on commercial photography and have been fortunate to work more than I ever imagined — and I truly love what I do. One of my favorite parts of this journey is showing others that it’s never too late to start something new. Learning doesn’t stop unless we decide to stop dreaming.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like many people who start in photography, I initially imagined that the work would mostly be about taking photos, delivering them, and getting paid. But building a real business is much more than pressing a button.
I’ve had to wear many hats. I had to learn the full editing process, how to deliver files professionally, manage the administrative side of the business, handle customer service, and do my own outreach and marketing. There have been plenty of late nights spent editing so clients could receive polished work within tight deadlines — sometimes within 24 hours. And there are times when things don’t go as planned, but you still have to deliver because clients are counting on you.
There have also been sacrifices, like missing family events because the work needed to get done. When you’re a business owner, there’s no clocking out — if you don’t do the work, you don’t get paid. On top of that, the industry keeps changing. New technology, including AI, constantly shifts expectations. In areas like real estate, you also have to understand laws, certifications, and safety standards around drones and specialized equipment. Keeping up requires ongoing learning and investment.
So no, it hasn’t been an easy ride. But if you asked me whether I’d do it again — and whether I still plan to be learning and growing in another ten years — my answer would be yes. Every challenge has shaped me and pushed me to become better at what I do.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I believe that every accomplishment deserves to be celebrated — as long as we stay humble and remember that we can learn something from everyone. Over the years, the people I’ve worked with and learned from have helped shape me, whether through positive experiences or tough lessons. I’ve carried all of those lessons forward in my career.
Most of my professional life has been spent in commercial and corporate environments, so my photography naturally evolved in that direction. Today, I specialize in corporate headshots, restaurant and commercial photography, architectural work, and real estate marketing. I’ve had the privilege of working with brands such as Taylor Morrison, Lennar, Medellin Burger, Muzzarella Pizza, Starbucks, Forteza Realty, La Rosa Realty, Kite Realty, and many others.
At the same time, I’ve also taken on meaningful personal projects and private events, including weddings, family celebrations, graduation ceremonies, quinceañeras and Sweet 16s, engagement sessions, and product photography. Being able to adapt across different types of work has allowed me to stay creative and continually challenged.
What sets me apart is that versatility. Many photographers choose to focus strictly on one niche, while I’ve embraced different areas of photography and used each experience to grow. I’m also proud of the fact that I transitioned from a traditional desk job to building a business where I control my time, value my work, and continue to evolve as an entrepreneur.
And this is just the beginning — I’m excited about the changes and new opportunities ahead, and I look forward to sharing more as the journey continues.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something that often surprises people is how much I enjoy collaborating and helping others. A lot of what I’ve learned has come through trial and error, and I genuinely love sharing those lessons so others can grow faster and avoid some of the mistakes I made. I believe that what we truly leave behind are memories and knowledge — and in photography, those memories live on through the images we create.
Another thing many people don’t realize is that I have a degree in computer science. It was a big part of my life at one point, but I eventually moved away from that path when I realized my true passion was elsewhere.
Above all, I am a family-oriented person and a man of faith. I’m deeply grateful to my Creator for guiding me, for never giving up on me, and for the grace that has carried me through my journey. That faith shapes how I live, how I work, and how I treat the people I have the privilege to serve.
Pricing:
- I would say visit my website for more information or contact me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://schumann-photography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schumann_photography1?igsh=MWtnM245YWM4Z2V2aA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BA41Kg4NY/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
Credits David Torres, Schumann Photography
