MEETKESO is a name you’ve probably seen before. After all, he’s built a client list with an impressive repertoire of names here and abroad. And it’s not hard to see why. Each photo Keso makes is full of personality, be it the Warhol-esque portraits or the underground-glitz of his event shots.
It’s ironic, then, that despite being a well-known name in the photography scene, little is known about MEETKESO himself. On Instagram—his main abode—little to no description accompanies each image. His main description is sparse, containing only a link to his web store. A quick search on Google yields little results. How, then, did an anonymous lone photographer create a prolific network?
Apparently, it starts with being good at what you do. Clients are human too, after all, no matter the status. And they can tell quality when they see it. We had the chance to ask Keso how he grew his network to where it is, and for some tips for fledgling creatives who want to do the same.
A selection of photos from MEETKESO’s Instagram
On Starting Out
When did you decide to pursue photography?
Photography has been my personal project up until now. I’d say I started testing the waters when I was in college, but I pursued portrait photography roughly around 2014.
What made you pursue it?
It lets me express my creativity. I wanted to draw portraits originally, but, that medium had not been very kind to me, you know. Photography, on the other hand, sort of gave me an avenue to be able to do just that. Hence, the white wall.
On building client networks
Who was your first client? How did you get connected, and how did you manage to secure them?
I realized that the photography used in American Apparel’s ads were pretty similar to my style of shooting. So I kind of browsed through their ads and saw someone that I found very interesting.
That someone happened to be Martine Cajucom. Found out she’s a local, so I tried to reach her. We then did a random portrait shoot at her house. The people from Sunnies later called me to shoot their event launch, and they became my first client. Everything else was history. I guess their influence played a huge part in helping me build my network of clients.
While you were building your network, did you have a set plan on which clients to tap into, or which companies to shoot for?
No set plans. I simply want to shoot portraits of interesting people.
How do you find the people you’d like to do a photoshoot with, or work with?
Hmm. They’re all over the place! I usually invite people through DM. Others come from referrals, and some I meet at friends’ parties.
Is having a plan crucial when it comes to building these networks?
Not really. I just maintain a particular vibe in my work. I believe that attitude naturally builds the network.
What promotional avenues did you use while you were expanding your network?
I just pretty much work with whatever IG is capable of.
Did social media play a big role? Personally, how do you think social media should be used in building these networks?
Of course it did! It still does. I think it helps in producing content that speaks the truth about your brand.
On tips for newcomers
For you, how important is self-promotion in building client networks?
To be honest, I’m not exactly sure how to answer that. I guess do whatever you’re comfortable doing. For me, it was just by word of mouth.
Could you say, then, that building a strong client network depends on the clients you currently have? Is there a way to ensure that the personal relationship you have with your current roster of clients leads to more projects or referrals?
I would say, yes. I guess the consistency with your work values and style will definitely put you in the right place.
What mistakes do most creatives make while they’re building their network? How can they bounce back from them?
When they base what they do on the trend and lose their identity in the process. You have to build your identity first. Then decide whether or not you want to sell out.
You also have to know your worth—if you feel like you’ve mastered your craft and invested on yourself, don’t let other people persuade you to do things for free. As they always say, exposure doesn’t pay the bills. Haha.
Photos by Zaldine Alvaro
What tips can you give creatives who are shy about their work?
Don’t rush things. Keep doing what you’re doing until you feel like you’ve mastered your craft. Then, later on, you can decide if you want your work to get published during or after your lifetime.
Are there any target clients you want to reach?
Kate Moss? Still working on that, haha.
