The "lifeless" beings. These figures are so full of emotions in the middle of an increasingly emotionless human society. I feel that the individualism, fear, toxic positivism, and lack of authenticity in relationships have left us in a position in which these lifeless figures communicate more powerfully than humans themselves.

“Found” objects. These pictures were taken quickly, at a glance, without too much thought. But when I looked at them again later, they sparked surprisingly deep memories and feelings. I like to call attention to ordinary, often unnoticed objects. Framing them allows the viewer to layer their cultural and conceptual meaning on top of their more obvious characteristics.  For me, these common locks, sandals, and clothespins evoke resilience, emotional attachment, support, sensuality and impermanence. 

Moments captured in the middle of crowded, dynamic public spaces. Everyone and everything is in constant motion, including myself. I tend to synchronize with what is happening around me, like I am part of it, but at the same time detaching to become an observer. Chaotic environments are especially fertile ground for me as a photographer who works more with serendipity than premeditated scenarios. 

Portraits of proud working people in their environments, involved in the usual activities that are part of their day as it unfolds. I am especially drawn to people that earn a living working with their hands. Maybe it is because I grew up seeing family working, whether it was making furniture, handcrafts, or landscaping. Visits to the town markets were also frequent while growing up in Puerto Rico. Many of these scenes have disappeared in my country, and are not part of my current environment in the United States either. However, I have found them very alive as I explore other countries’ towns and villages. I present these images out of a sense of nostalgia, and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and hard work.

Portraiture in street photography is about courage. It takes courage to boldly express a strong sense of identity, authenticity or cultural pride. Street portraiture is very rewarding because I can capture the essence of a person at a given moment “as is”, with no expectations or previous arrangements. These moments in life are fleeting and so precious. It is also about courage because as a photographer, it can be scary to quickly approach and engage with a stranger before the spontaneity is gone. For the subject, there could be concerns about losing privacy, being exploited, putting themselves or their family at risk or going against religious beliefs. I am very grateful for the moments that allowed me to capture these portraits.

The urban environments and its connection with the human experience. Navigating the streets, slowly, to notice how the urban fabric becomes an open canvas for expression. I feel inclined to document with images the essence of a place, its energy, culture and people as it unfolds at a particular moment.