Hi, I'm Andrew McGuirk.

 

I'm originally from South Africa, but I now live in the Netherlands, where I import and represent premium South African spirits.

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Storytelling has always been my passion. My background is in digital marketing and content creation, working with brands like Unilever, Under Armour, Pepsi, and Marriott Hotels.

 

I've spent years telling other people's stories—but never really my own.

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Over the last few years, I've thrown myself into cocktails—learning from creators like you, Jordan—and I've been steadily improving my cocktail and product photography whenever I get the chance.

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Photography has become much more than taking beautiful pictures. I love creating images that make people stop and ask, "What's the story behind that drink?"

 

Because every bottle has a place, a culture, and people behind it, I believe photography is one of the best ways to honour that.

That's why this opportunity means so much to me.

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Mexico is the birthplace of tequila, and for me it's a pilgrimage. I don't want to experience it as a tourist—I want to learn alongside people who genuinely care about agave, photography, and craftsmanship.

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I already work with agave spirits, introducing people to them through tastings, events, and cocktails. Visiting the source would completely change how I tell those stories. I'd come home with a deeper understanding, stronger photography skills, and authentic experiences that I'd continue sharing long after the trip.

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I also think I bring a different perspective. As a South African living in Europe and working in the drinks industry, I naturally connect cultures through hospitality. That's something I want my photography to reflect.

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More than anything, I'm curious. I love asking questions, meeting producers, learning from other creatives, and documenting the little details that most people overlook.

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If I'm fortunate enough to be selected, I won't just take photos for a week. I'll use everything I learn to keep telling the story of agave and the people behind it—to help grow appreciation for it across Europe, back home in South Africa, and wherever my work happens to reach.

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Thank you so much for considering my application.

 

I genuinely hope to see you in Mexico.