Ivan Hugo, Into
Teaches photographic projects
I’m a Visual Director connecting culture and creativity through film, photography, and ethno-visual storytelling. I lead projects that make ideas visible and culturally meaningful, collaborating with global brands and purpose-driven teams. With over a decade of experience at Nike and Levi’s Global, I blend artistic vision with cultural insight to create context-rich visuals. I direct INTO — a studio translating lived experiences into authentic, multichannel content. I studied at the London College of Communication (UAL) and completed a Master’s in Cinematography at MET Film School, London.
Into is a visual creative studio that connects research, creativity, and purpose. We partner with brands, researchers, creatives, and mission-driven teams to translate insights into visual stories through film, photography, and ethnographic storytelling. We work in the field and within communities, grounding ideas in lived experience. By giving data a human face, we create imagery that people can see, feel, and remember.
“My teaching is grounded in process. Photography becomes a space to observe, reflect, and make meaning. I encourage students to slow down, look closely, and articulate their intentions. We share references, discuss ideas, and build visual thinking skills. The goal is not only to create strong images, but to understand why they matter and how they communicate. I also emphasize context and lived experience, inviting students to connect their work with the world around them, acknowledging culture, memory, and perspective as part of image-making. Learning becomes an ongoing conversation.”
