A Different Way to See

Shooting on film feels different. It’s slower, more intentional. Every frame matters because you don’t get unlimited chances. You trust your eyes, your instincts, and the process. And when you finally see the results, they aren’t just pictures—they hold something deeper, something you can’t quite replicate any other way.

This set of images reflects that experience. The color shots have a natural depth, a richness that makes light feel alive without trying too hard. The single black and white image is there for a reason—I’ve always been drawn to how it strips everything down to shape, shadow, and mood.

One shot that stuck with me was the reflection of an older building on the glass of a modern one. The grid of windows breaks up the reflection, distorting it just enough to remind you that it doesn’t belong there. But even through the lines and the shifting light, the character of the old structure holds—especially with the small flag at its peak, barely noticeable but still standing. It’s a moment where time overlaps, past and present pressed together on the same surface.

The other images—each with their own feel—carry that same energy. A roll of film sitting on a book in the shadows, a colonial-style church holding its presence against the sky, a police car below me, lined up with the avenue markings in a way that feels almost too perfect, and the underground subway, where square patterns and repeating lines create a quiet rhythm. They aren’t connected by subject, but by the way film captures them—not just as images, just moments that feel real with imperfections that make me happier than digital.

That’s why I keep coming back to film. Give it a chance; you will do well if you stick to the basics. Be patient with yourself and be purposeful.

Analog Perspectives: The Art of Black and White

Every city block, every building, and every street corner has a story to tell through its structure. For me, photography is about uncovering those stories and distilling them into images that speak to viewers. My film photography embraces both high key and low key aesthetics, depending on the mood I wish to convey. High key photography emphasizes bright, clean tones with minimal shadows, often giving a sense of openness and positivity. Low key photography leans into darker tones, shadows, and contrast, creating a moodier, more mysterious feel.

Walking through the streets, I’m constantly scanning for lines, curves, and angles that form the architecture around me. Film, with its grainy texture and rich contrast, offers a timeless quality that digital often struggles to replicate. When shooting city streets, it’s about capturing not just a moment, but the essence of a space—whether it's a towering skyscraper or a quiet alleyway. Film forces you to slow down, and be intentional with every frame. I embrace the shadows, allowing them to add depth and mystery. In both cases, contrast plays a key role. Whether it's an abandoned building with stark shadows or a vibrant street scene highlighted by the play of sunlight, contrast creates emotional resonance. Film enhances this by providing a tactile, analog depth to the image that digital cannot easily replicate.

I invite you to experience the city through my eyes—where each frame tells a story of geometry, emotion, and the beauty found in both the light and the dark.

NYC's Subway Struggles in 2024

As per The New York Times and the official MTA alert portal of New York City, another recent disruption has inconvenienced commuters twice in one week. The latest incident involved a train derailment on the F line, occurring on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, near W 8 St-NY Aquarium. This serves as a stark reminder that even in a city renowned for its efficiency, unforeseen events can lead to significant disruptions. Not too long ago, NYC experienced a similar incident on the Upper West Side '1 train,' carrying close to 300 people. Public confidence and passengers are greatly affected by these frequent disruptions, especially considering the two incidents occurred within just six days of each other. As a photographer living in NYC, I rely on public transportation regularly and support increased investment in infrastructure. However, I can't help but feel that NYC's system doesn't compare to the European one, which already boasts cutting-edge technology. NYC seems like an outdated network suffering the consequences of aging components. Let's hope our subway experience improves, and the MTA takes the necessary measures that millions of daily passengers deserve.

Did you know that in 1904 NYC subway system made history as the first underground rapid transit system in the United States, connecting City Hall and Harlem?

On the edge

I was not ready for this one!

Out of nowhere, this striking black bird perched right on the edge of a rocky water fountain. Above it, was the water cascading down, creating a captivating dance of splashes below.

Caught in the frame is my feathered friend, feet dipped into the cool water but not fully committed, adding a touch of mystery to the scene. The rocky texture of the fountain beneath adds a rustic charm, grounding the shot, is this little guy. Perhaps he was assessing the situation? I don’t know exactly the answer, but as I took that shot in the blink of an eye he had flown away.

What really drew me in, was the delicate balance of the moment. I am not a bird expert, but birds particularly of this size, are perpetual movers; they don't stand still. With a bit of a stroke of luck and timing you too can seize a moment like this.

Curious about the spec behind the lens? Are you into bird photography? Comment below if you wish me to post more content like this!

Two eras in one frame

In the heart of history lies a mezzanine frozen in time—a captivating space where the echoes of the past meet the whispers of the present. On the left, is an amazing image shot with the lens of a bygone era of the late 1940s, and to the right is my perspective within the digital era of today, I unveil two snapshots of the same enchanting place. The fixtures, and pillars adorned with gilded designs, continue to stand witness to the passage of time.

The first frame, a relic of the 1940s, immortalizes the mezzanine with the warm embrace of film. Vintage lights cast a nostalgic glow, capturing an era marked by the elegance and sophistication of its time. Fast forward to the present, and the mezzanine stands resilient, with echoes of the past still resonating.

This isn't a competition between two photographers of different times, nor this isn’t a battle between two technologies. This was not an attempt to outshine the past, instead, it's a celebration of the enduring beauty of a place that has withstood the test of time. I tried to honor the beauty of continuity and the magic that unfolds when the past and present converge in a single frame.

Standing precisely where my predecessor once stood, I navigated similar challenges. In retracing his or her steps, I found not only a connection with the past but also a shared passion that transcended time. At this very moment, I understood, that I bonded with someone I never had the chance to meet, united by a profound love for the craft.

Drama in frames

In the heart of a dimly lit theater, a captivating scene unfolds. One figure, exuding authority, commands the stage, while in the shadows, another character appears defeated, embodying vulnerability. It's a clash of power and emotion frozen in time.

As a photographer, the allure of shooting live theater performances lies in the authenticity of emotions. These fleeting instances, where strength and weakness collide, offer a unique opportunity to tell a powerful story in a single frame. For me, it’s an adrenaline rush to chase moments like these where the narrative unfolds this way.

Yet, navigating the theater's intricate lighting poses a challenge. To craft a compelling narrative, one must strategically position themselves, anticipating the highs and lows of the performance. Even if you're not part of the set, the power to shape your photo lies in your hands. Your chosen perspective, the angle at which you capture the actors, and the timing of your shot hold transformative potential. Proficiency in reading the lighting is essential – an intimate comprehension of the interplay between light and shadow empowers you to fashion your distinctive version.

In the end, the silent dialogues between characters, the interplay of light, and the raw, unscripted emotions are so worth it. And when was the last time you checked out a theater play?

Forget your boundaries

My recent endeavor involved breaking away from the confines of pristine sharp high-end images and advocating for a more daring approach. This time I truly wanted to craft by making this image a playground of textures and injecting a variance and densely concentrated details into a composition, allowing me to reach the results I was looking for.

Black and white photography, in particular, serves as a canvas for this creative exploration. The idea is to embrace imperfections, forging a unique narrative within the frame.

For anyone venturing into photography, consider this: innovation often arises from the willingness to create, destroy, and explore.

And here is a fun fact: Did you know that the first photograph ever taken required an exposure time of over 8 hours?

Not Just a Headshot

In today's fast-paced business world, having a proper corporate professional shot is essential.

A corporate professional shot is a high-quality photograph taken by a professional photographer that represents the individual in a professional and polished manner. First impressions are crucial. A proper corporate professional shot can create a positive first impression and set the tone for future interactions. It conveys professionalism, confidence, and attention to detail, all qualities that are highly valued in the business world.

A high-quality image will help the individual stand out in a crowded market, establish credibility and authority, and create a strong personal brand. Therefore, it is crucial to invest in a professional corporate photo to reap these benefits and stay competitive in the ever-evolving business landscape.

Throughout my career, I have shot many clients that form part of different industries and in various sectors of the corporate landscape, I find that some, are a bit more receptive than others, and in recent years I noticed photography has become increasingly undervalued and underutilized, not because is not important, but because it’s misunderstood.

Perhaps this is a segway for part two where I dive deeper into the subject and take you through my journey as a photographer.

For the time being, let’s stay focused on the subject and remember that incorporating photographs, including your profile picture, is a crucial aspect of establishing your professional branding.

Perseverance

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life.

We often forget to take a step back and appreciate the simple things around us. But, a black and white photograph of an old man pushing two heavy carts with each arm can remind us of the beauty in the mundane.

The photo, taken with a 35mm camera, depicts an elderly man crossing the street on a Monday morning. Despite his age and physical limitations, he is pushing two heavy carts, one with each arm. The carts are piled high with various items, from bags of groceries to old pieces of what seemed to me to be furniture. The contrast of the black and white tones highlights the starkness of the man's surroundings. The street is empty, except for a few parked cars and a store in the background. The simplicity of the setting allows us to focus on the man and his carts. As we look at the photograph, we can imagine the struggle the man is facing. The weight of the carts must be immense, and he is moving slowly, one step at a time. It's evident that he's been doing this for a long time, as his body is accustomed to the weight and the movement.

The photo is a reminder that strength comes in many forms. We often associate strength with physical prowess or material wealth, but the old man's strength lies in his perseverance and determination. In my opinion, pictures like these remind me to slow down and appreciate the journey, no matter how difficult it may be.

Audrey Hepburn Mural

In the heart of New York City's Little Italy, a stunning mural pays tribute to the legendary British actress Audrey Hepburn.

I decided to shoot it in black and white with a film camera since it adds a touch of nostalgia and charm to this already captivating piece of art. She is located on the corner of Mulberry Street and Broome Street. It captures Audrey Hepburn’s most iconic role, as Holly Golightly in the classic film "Breakfast at Tiffany's." In many ways, the mural of Audrey Hepburn is a celebration of the past. It pays tribute to a legendary actress who has left an indelible mark on popular culture and is captured in a medium that harkens back to a time before the digital age. It just needed to be shot in film and that’s what I did.

This mural is a timeless piece of art that will continue to capture the imagination and inspire awe for many years to come.

New York Road Runners 2022

NYC Marathons are always iconic events in my view. As a photographer, covering such an event can be both exhilarating and challenging to shoot.

The New York Road Runners (NYRR) is a nonprofit organization that creates inspiring events and along with the City of New York provides a platform for the running community and has many upcoming events every year. Over the past 64 years, they have grown from a local running club and now have the world’s premier community running organization with a mission to help through this wonderful sport.

On the technical end of the spectrum, to capture good shots during a dynamic event like this one, the best advice I can give is to make sure you choose the right shutter speeds. In my opinion and depending on the composition, 1/1000th of a second or faster is ideal. Also having the camera ready for burst mode could be helpful as well, this will give you more options to choose from. Don’t forget about the crowds. They add a special energy that only the runner community can provide.

In summary, shooting a runner event in NYC can be a thrilling and rewarding experience for a photographer, and the more you shoot it the better you’ll get. So grab your camera and head out to the next runner event in NYC – you never know what incredible shots you might capture.

Veterans Day Parade 2022

Honoring Our Heroes

The annual NYC Veterans Day Parade 2022

The annual Veterans Day Parade is one of the biggest events of the year and has been held in New York City since 1919, is basically the largest Veterans Day event in the country.

It attracts over 20,000 participants and hundreds of thousands of spectators. The parade is a way for New Yorkers to show their appreciation and support for the men and women who have served our country.

The parade typically starts at 11:11 AM on November 11th, which is the exact time that the armistice was signed to end World War I. The route begins at 26th Street and Fifth Avenue and ends at 52nd Street and Fifth Avenue. The parade features marching bands, military units, and veterans from all branches of the armed forces.

In conclusion, the New York City Veterans Day Parade is a great event to attend and photograph. With a little planning and careful attention to detail, you can capture some amazing photographs and show your support for the brave men and women who have served our country.

Unprecedented Indictment Forces NYC into Lockdown

On April 4, 2023, former president Donald Trump made his way through NYC in order to surrender to authorities following a historic indictment.

Yes, the United States is currently experiencing politically polarizing times. The country is divided on a number of issues, including but not limited to social, economic, and cultural issues. This polarization is reflected in the political landscape, with political parties and their supporters holding deeply divergent views on a range of topics. This has led to a highly charged political environment where compromise and cooperation are often difficult to achieve, and where partisan gridlock has become a common feature of the political landscape. Whether one views Trump as a charismatic and effective leader or as a divisive and controversial figure, it is undeniable that he has had a significant impact on American politics and culture in recent years and continues to be a subject of intense interest and debate.

Bronx Celebrates Dominican Culture at Annual Day Parade

Bronx Dominican

Day Parade 2022

A Sunday afternoon to remember.

The Bronx Dominican Day Parade is an annual event that celebrates the Dominican culture and heritage in the Bronx, New York City. It was held on a Sunday afternoon, and it was an opportunity for the Dominican community in the Bronx to come together and showcase their culture, traditions, music, and dance. The streets were filled with colorful costumes, flags, and banners, as well as the sounds of merengue, bachata, and salsa music.

The parade started at noon at Grand Concourse and East Tremont Avenue and continued along the Grand Concourse to 167th Street. Participants included local organizations, schools, dance groups, and businesses, all of which came together to celebrate their heritage and show off their talents. One of the highlights of the parade was the food, with many vendors lining the streets, and selling traditional Dominican dishes such as empanadas, mofongo, and arroz con pollo. The aroma of the food filled the air, adding to the festive atmosphere of the event. The Bronx Dominican Day Parade has become an important tradition in the Bronx, not only for the Dominican community but for the entire borough. It serves as a reminder of the diverse cultures that make up the Bronx and the importance of celebrating and respecting them.

Overall, the 2022 Bronx Dominican Day Parade was a huge success, with a fantastic turnout and an abundance of energy and excitement. It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon filled with music, dance, food, and celebration, bringing together people from all walks of life to enjoy the rich and vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic.

FDNY responds to a balcony fire

The Fourth of July is right around the corner, and this means fireworks.

A dangerous situation can unfold in a matter of seconds. The fire broke on the 16th-floor balcony of a Manhattan high-rise on St Nicholas Avenue, Monday, July 4th, 2022. There was no information on the cause of the fire, thankfully, no injuries were reported, however, incidents such as this one put into perspective how dangerous it could be to leave the apartment windows open on a night like the 4th of July in NYC. The illegal use of fireworks has become a growing concern for the uptown residents of NYC, and with an increasing number of complaints about loud explosions, and debris falling from the sky or even entering apartment windows, it now looks like the issue has become widespread throughout the metropolitan area.

With that said.

From a photographer’s perspective, this kind of event can be challenging, but it also provides an opportunity to capture a powerful and meaningful image. When photographing a news event like a fire, there are a few things to keep in mind. You must prioritize your safety follow any instructions from authorities, respect the working space of the professionals who need real estate (space) to carry out their work, and be respectful of how you photograph people who are visibly distressed or in distress. On the technical end, I can’t provide much advice since in every situation all settings are going to be unique, so you will have to figure things out on your own and in real-time. Some photographers rely on their camera’s semi-automatic features and like me some stay in manual settings.

I must stress the importance of prioritizing safety and respect. With all these considerations in mind, photographers can capture stunning and powerful images while still maintaining a safe and responsible approach.

National Dominican Day Parade 2022

National Dominican Day Parade

An event that has become an integral part of the cultural fabric of New York City.

Yes, the Dominican Day Parade in NYC is one of the most important and significant cultural events that draw large crowds every year. It celebrates the Dominican community and its culture, featuring colorful costumes, traditional dances, and of course its music.

As one of the largest immigrant groups in New York City, is no surprise that an event of this scale is a massive challenge for a photographer to take on. There is so much to look at in so many places and there is only one of you. This particular event was the 40th Anniversary of the NDDP which took place on August 14, 2022 and was a lot of fun shooting it. My advice for any photojournalist that wishes to cover an assignment like this one is to be as prepared as you can.

Starting with a simple research online, find out the route so that you can use key vantage points to take better photos. Look for interesting people, perhaps VIPs, or political figures if you wish to make that part of your work. It’s important to know that each of our clients has different needs, as we don’t all get the same assignment, some of us have go for a more general coverage, and a few have specific instructions that don’t allow for an overall perspective of the event.

Equipment. Assuming you already have a camera, the lens you use is crucial. There is no need for high-end lenses, a kit lens will do just fine, and don’t forget to get extra batteries and memory cards as backup.

Shoot Raw. This will allow you to make edits that won’t compromise the quality of the image in case you need to do heavy post-production.

And finally. Be respectful, to the audience, and participants, this includes your fellow photographers, and of course law enforcement. Don’t forget to hydrate, keep your eyes open and keep safe.

“The Dominican community in NYC adds a unique flavor and energy that enriches the lives of all who call this city home”

— johnguira

A bird's eye view

NYC is a city known for its impressive skyline, with towering skyscrapers that seem to touch the clouds. The city is often photographed from the ground usually downtown somewhere and in color. I opted to change things up and shoot uptown instead of downtown, monochrome rather than color, and a bird’s eye view vs ground eye level.

I was at the mercy of my surroundings and found myself a bit overwhelmed at first since there is so much to look at from here, hence I thought it would be a good idea to include an architectural element that can help the audience process this frame gradually from the right. Perception can be influenced by many factors, such as culture, personal preference, and even language I feel. In truth I wanted this picture to focus on everything all at once, but I understood I needed to be careful so that the audience can appreciate the intricacies of the picture without being startled.

My overall advice is to consider the audience, it helps ensure the picture remains relevant hence increasing engagement and more time appreciating your picture. After all that is all a photographer wants right?

Vulnerability

In my opinion, the value of a photograph has nothing to do with technical knowledge. Quality has nothing to do with beauty or exposure all the time, for me, sensitivity is a powerful medium that can evoke empathy and raw authentic emotion allowing us to experience humanity.

Getting my subjects to display vulnerability is a priceless gift that I very much cherish. This frame represents all of us, and it reminded me of how two presences can vibrate together through the air without saying one word.

Mod Crd - Nana

“Vulnerability is basically the unfiltered lens that defines the rawness of the human experience. ”

— JohnGuira

Patterns and Structure

Shooting structures like these can provide a sense of order, I personally like to let geometry dominate the frame whenever possible and think ahead on how best to use the contrast created between wide solid structures, skinny metal beams, and the spaces where there will be no bouncing light. Taking all these things into perspective will support the visual characteristics of a black-and-white composition.

Take advantage of our brain’s natural need to organize patterns and place things in order, while keeping that in mind, remember that leading lines are powerful compositional tools that can guide the viewer’s eye through an image. Guide your audience, but also make them wonder, and experiment with your environment.

Don’t worry about overexposing or underexposing, screw perfect exposure, with film, you have to be intentional, go for it, and push the film to do what it does best, a moody and dramatic feel.

Trying a Different Perspective

The New York City subway system is one of the busiest in the world. Despite the constant flow of people, buzz, and stimulation, it can also be a place of profound loneliness. I feel this picture represents a small part of the impersonal and anonymous nature of the subway experience.

A picture with a certain level of intimacy and a bit of tension or unease coupled with a spontaneous unposed subject can draw the viewer into the moment being captured in the photograph. I took this shot with a 35mm camera from my waist and did not place the camera at eye level, this help me take it at a low angle and add a different perspective.

Overall, capturing unplanned moments can add a sense of spontaneity, authenticity, and visual interest to your photography. So, next time you're out with your camera, try to be open to the unexpected and see what kind of unplanned moments you can capture.

“Black and white photography is the abstraction of reality, a purified representation that reveals the essence of the subject ”

— Javier Arres