Calvin Leonard, a native of the west side of Santa Monica, is a visual artist who has established himself as a versatile photographer with a particular talent for portraits. However, his portfolio spans landscapes, documentaries, lowrider culture, and skate and surf scenes. Leonard’s journey into photography was not just a pursuit of artistic expression but also a personal battle with anxiety that once confined him to his home. The turning point came when his current girlfriend introduced him to her camera, sparking a passion latent in his longstanding love for visual arts.

Among his notable achievements are two self-published photo zines carried by three different bookstores in Los Angeles, a feat that fills Leonard with pride. The first zine documents his road travels during COVID-19, capturing landscapes on film. The second, released a few months later, focuses on portraits. Leonard is working on a lowrider zine slated for release within the year and has participated in several art shows. Of these, he is most proud of his involvement in “Contagious Culture,” hosted by Cowboy Collectives and Super Chief Gallery

Leonard strives to imprint his unique touch on his work, ensuring it stands out. To him, originality is the cornerstone of photography, a principle he believes is crucial for any artist wanting to make a lasting impact.