ALL IMAGES
Embarking on my photography journey, I initially followed the common path of many photographers, capturing scenes that intrigued us without a clear visual focus. However, my true passions unfolded as I immersed myself in observing life. Being a smoker, I found myself constantly surrounded by others who share this habit. Amidst the smoke, hand movements, gestures, and facial expressions, I discovered a profound beauty within the context of each person. The allure of smoking and its surroundings has inspired me to create a dedicated album exploring the captivating world concealed behind the veil of smoke.
My nature is one of constant observation; I find that my eyes and mind are perpetually engaged in this process, especially captivated by the smallest of details. Through this unceasing scrutiny, I've unearthed a deep-seated passion and obsession for capturing "still life" images in day-to-day settings. These are more than mere static compositions; they are vital elements that embody the atmosphere and ambiance of a space. In my view, life would feel empty without these still lifes. They are more than just objects; they are storytellers that provide context and understanding of our surroundings.
Having spent over three years immersed in photography, I've come to realize my deep fascination with humans and their physical forms. Yet, it's the hands that consistently capture my attention. Hands are our instinctive tools, used effortlessly in our daily lives. They possess a sensuality and expressiveness that's uniquely revealing. A close observation of someone's hands can offer insightful glimpses into their personality and the life they lead, as each pair of hands tells its own distinctive story.
I've rapidly grasped that living on the streets mirrors the dynamics of a schoolyard; it's a tumultuous environment filled with highs and lows, inhabited by a diverse array of individuals each with their own unique stories. Some wander in packs, while others traverse alone. Despite the undulating nature of street life, movement is constant. Capturing street photography with vigor or passion requires immersing oneself in the lives of others, which necessitates overcoming the fear of engaging with strangers.
Humans truly are fascinating creatures. Growing up in Barcelona, I was always amidst a crowd of people. From a young age, I found myself drawn to observing human behavior, noting the nuances and subtleties that distinguish each individual. This could be anything from small habits to details like scars, a slight tear in their clothing, the unique cadence of their speech, or their facial expressions — with a particular fascination for their hands. However, it was my experience in Colombia that inspired me to start photographing the people around me. This wasn't just about capturing images; it was about preserving memories of my interactions and sharing the stories behind each person. I strive to forge a connection with the people I photograph, whether they are strangers or acquaintances, to imbue each photo with a sense of personal intimacy. I'm captivated by the phrase "humans being humans" - it's straightforward yet profoundly accurate.
I have a deep appreciation for black and white photography. It seems to enhance aspects like the emotion, energy, ambiance, and contrasts within a photograph, offering a perspective that sometimes feels more powerful than color photography. However, I acknowledge that there are moments when color is irresistible and black and white simply doesn't suffice. In this album, you'll find a variety of themes and, notably, my first four attempts at using an analog camera.