I’m a street and documentary photographer based in San Francisco, California. To reach beyond, I find working on short and long-term self-assigned photo projects that have a powerful pull. Each provide an opportunity for me, to focus attention on a broader range of culturally diverse stories regarding life and living. Without photography, my life would be so different, and this is something I cannot imagine.

I grew up watching old classic movies, especially film noir at my local neighborhood cinema. It was one of the few entertainments my parents could afford. And without a doubt, viewing these old black and white films, greatly added to my visual tastes. Not long after finding photography, I became a student under the esteemed Frank Espada, photojournalist & photographer. He was my friend and mentor and I’m eternally grateful for his encouraging efforts to get me to work beyond myself.

The choices I’ve made have led me to see the world with an open mind. The work I’ve produce is situated around the discussions of openness, to bring society together regardless of our differences. In life, we don’t always get the chance to say everything, but using for example the arts, words and photography, this is where each of us have the chance to bare our soul to each of us.

Web: photoartmaria.com