Holyshitaki, A Real Car Fanatic
Holyshitaki, A Real Car Fanatic
They say everything is better in Texas. Well, Eddie Guerra aka @Holyshitaki, definitely helps prove it. Keeping it simple and showing his surroundings, he has one of the most impressive range of vehicle photos we’ve seen. His feed is filled with awesome old school, vintage and classic rides around his city of Austin, Texas. Whether it's the beautiful scenery or a rough vintage ride, he lets his shots do the talking.
Before we get into the discussion, where does the name @holyshitaki come from? It’s one of the funnier Instagram names.
Haha, I get that question a lot. It’s basically my default response whenever I come across something that I really like. It has nothing to do with shiitake mushrooms, sorry foodies!
How long have you been part of the Instagram community?
Since 2010, but I’ve only been an active user for the past two years.
How did you first get started In Instagram? Did you have any photography background before joining Instagram?
I started using Instagram during a ski trip to Denver. It was a simple and easy way to document my vacation on the fly. I do not have a photography background, but I did take a class in high school ages ago. Haha!
It is not hard to notice that you’re a fan of cars, especially classic and old school rides. Have you always been a car guy? What attracts you to them? What are some of your favorites? Don't forget to mention your ultimate favorite ride.
Oh yeah, I love cars. I didn’t really get into vintage autos
until I first noticed @5a5a5a’s feed. His edits of classic cars are incredible. Once I saw how beautiful vintage cars truly are I was on a mission to find every vintage auto in my area. I really like the juxtaposition of a vintage car in modern day America. There’s nothing better than a classic ride with a fresh wax job parked on a city street surrounded by skyscrapers.
I think my favorite captures to date are the Citroen and Jaguar E Type. Those two cars are so rare that when you do see one you better have your camera ready. Honestly, I don’t have one particular car that’s my favorite. Perhaps, one day, I’ll come across one that absolutely takes my breath away.
If you own a car, what kind of car is it?
Yes, my current car is an Infiniti G35 so nothing worth photographing. A vintage car purchase is coming soon…
Are there any other subjects that you enjoy shooting?
Besides cars, I really enjoy architecture and empty spaces. I have hundreds of photos on my camera roll that I’m too afraid to post since they’re not auto related. Who knows, I might have to start a second IG account for those photos.
What are some of your favorite places to shoot?
Rural towns and city streets are my go-to spots. I love waking up early in the morning and just driving without a planned destination. Living in the city leaves me yearning for a quieter and more serene space like the rural countryside. It amazes me how time seems to stand still in rural America.
During my work week, the city provides plenty of photo opportunities, which keep me busy until the weekend.
Do you consider yourself to have a certain style of photography?
Great question. Honestly, I’m not set on one specific style.
You’ll notice my Instagram feed is kind of a mix-up of different styles and edits. Sometimes I’m feeling the natural light as opposed to me editing a photo to enhance light elements. These days, I’m favoring the minimal look with natural light.
What does Instagram mean to you?
Instagram is basically my creative outlet for now. I’ve met some incredible people along the way that keep me coming back on a daily basis. The sense of community on IG is pretty awesome and rewarding.
If you’re on Instagram long enough, you start to build meaningful relationships with people all over the world…that’s hard to find these days and I respect that.
What do you do for a living?
Currently, I work for Callaway Golf Interactive. I’m a coordinator for digital merchandising on three websites: callawaygolfpreowned.com, odysseygolf.com and callawaygolf.com. Along with being a mobile photography nerd, I’m also a huge golf geek. I usually play 1-2 times a week year round. One day I hope I can pay the bills with my photography.
Are you a home guy, or you like to take trips or hit the road?
A little bit of both. I have no problem with chilling out at home with my beautiful girlfriend Kristin and our two spoiled dogs. Eventually my inquisitive nature will take over and I’ll seek out our next day trip or short vacation spot. Exploring is good for the soul, right?
Q&A with Kevin De Los Santos