Capturing Life's Essence Through Photography

In this edition, we are thrilled to present Maria Suarez, a Peruvian-born photographer with a profound passion for capturing life's moments through her lens. Delving into landscapes and portraiture, Maria's work reflects a tapestry woven from her diverse experiences and cultural heritage.

Her lens tells stories of families, childhood, and the beauty of landscapes, bridging the gap between cultures and emotions.
Her rich background in studio portraits infuses her work with a depth that resonates with viewers.

Currently based in the New York City area, Maria's recent project delves into the tender bond between mothers and children, blending studio portraits with the cinematic allure of short films. Through her captivating imagery, Maria invites us to explore the essence of culture, humanity, and the intricate connections that define our lives.

Join us as we uncover Maria Suarez's artistic journey, inspirations, and the narratives that shape her captivating work.

Maria Suarez. Image courtesy of the artist.

SAH: Can you share with us when you first discovered your passion for photography?

MS: In reflecting on my journey with photography, I realize that my passion for it has been a constant thread throughout my life.
It all began at five when my parents gave me my first camera. From that moment, I was captivated by the magic of photography and the process behind it. I was filled with curiosity, eager to understand how images were developed and how I could capture the world around me through the lens. That initial spark ignited a lifelong love affair with photography, shaping my creative journey from a young age.

SAH: How has your academic background shaped your approach to photography?

MS: My background in Audiovisual Communications and my Master's degree in Digital Photography have provided me with an understanding of photography as a business. This approach has helped me with insights into various aspects of the industry, including its process, market dynamics, and possibilities. I am grateful for the opportunity to merge my academic pursuits with my passion for photography, which has deepened my comprehension of this field. 

Maria Suarez. Iquitos. Photography. 30x40cm.

SAH: When conceptualising and executing a photography project, could you walk us through your creative process?

MS: Initiating a new project often involves the process of conceptualization and experimentation. My approach typically begins with identifying a central idea or theme, serving as the foundation upon which the project evolves. However, I remain open to exploration and adaptation as I go deeper into the initial concept.

Recently, while embarking on a new project, I realized that the original idea was somewhat complicated, making it challenging to convey its essence effectively. Recognizing the need for a pivot, I embraced the opportunity to explore other alternatives.
Through experimentation, I discovered new perspectives that clarified the concept and gave the project significance. Thus, through this dynamic process, my project gradually took shape, guided by the evolution of ideas and the pursuit of creative clarity.

SAH: Your recent project focuses on the relationship between mothers and children. What inspired you to delve into this theme?

MS: I was drawn to focusing my work on maternity based on my experiences with my mother. She has shown me what real love is and how to be so unconditional and unique, so I've always been inspired and fascinated by this bond because of her.

Maria Suarez. Ashleigh and Sloane. Photography. 30x40cm.

Maria Suarez. Kezi and Rio. Photography. 30x40cm.

SAH: How do you utilize social media management and online platforms to showcase your work?

MS: Yes, I use social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and my personal website to promote my work. These helped me to reach a broader audience and showcase my portfolio to potential clients or collaborators.

SAH: Your work encompasses landscapes, portraiture, and the dynamics of families. Can you elaborate on how these different genres influence and inspire each other in your creative process?

MS: In my photography journey, I've found inspiration in various genres, particularly landscapes, portraiture, and family photography.
My fascination with the diverse landscapes of Peru ignited my passion for landscape photography, driven by the unique shapes and scenery.

For portraiture, my creative process begins by gathering ideas from platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook, which I then personalize with my touch. Working with families and newborns involves exploring new poses and ideas, and drawing inspiration from their reactions to the final edited photos. Each genre uniquely contributes to my creative process, shaping my photography vision.

Maria Suarez. Huancaya. Photography. 30x40cm.

SAH: As a photographer based in New York City, does the urban environment influence your artistic choices?

MS: In my recent work, I've been focusing on capturing the essence of New York City, incorporating its iconic skyline, landmarks like Central Park, and bustling streets into my portfolio. This new body of work is shaping my artistic choices and influencing my approach to processing and presenting my photographs.

I'm drawn to the dynamic energy of the cityscape and the interplay between architecture and nature, which informs my editing decisions and composition. As I continue to develop this portfolio, I'm excited to explore how these urban landscapes inspire and evolve my creative vision.

SAH: How do you balance preserving the essence of cultural heritage in your photography while also exploring new themes and narratives in your work?

MS: My culture is an integral part of who I am. Through my work, I strive to illuminate the richness of Peru's cultural heritage, emphasizing its profound history and the warmth of its people.

Simultaneously, I embrace innovation and experimentation, constantly seeking new avenues of artistic expression. For me, it's about striking a balance between honouring my roots and embracing the present, recognizing that our past shapes us as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of creativity.

Maria Suarez. Amazon. Photography. 30x40cm.

SAH: Looking ahead, what are some upcoming projects or themes you are excited to explore through your photography, and how do you envision your artistic journey evolving in the future?

MS: I'm enthusiastic about exploring new artistic approaches, such as alternative processes or film photography, areas I haven't explored extensively. Looking ahead, I envision striking a balance between commercial and artistic photography in my career.

This involves not only capturing images in the studio but also showcasing my work in galleries and museums, allowing me to express my creativity while engaging with diverse audiences.

SAH: What advice would you give someone wanting to have a photography career?

MS: My philosophy is simple: take as many pictures as you can and always strive to learn. Curiosity is key – never hesitate to ask questions and connect with others in the field.

Building a network fosters growth and opens doors to new opportunities. Embrace failure as a natural part of the learning process and, most importantly, find joy in every moment of your journey

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More information about the artist:

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