10 Questions with Maria Suarez
Based in the New York City area, Maria Suarez is a family portrait photographer originally from Peru. She recently earned her master’s degree in Digital photography from New York’s prestigious School of Visual Arts. Maria’s audiovisual communication background includes studio portraits, social events, and social media management, all experiences that reinforce the sensibilities of her work.
Maria Suarez - Portrait
ARTIST STATEMENT
Maria Suarez, a Peruvian photographer rooted in the vibrant energy of New York City, brings forth a profound exploration of human connection and cultural heritage through her lens. Specializing in portraits and landscapes, Suarez's work transcends mere imagery, delving deep into the intricacies of familial bonds and the rich tapestry of Peruvian identity.
Portraits, in Suarez's vision, become more than just visual representations; they embody the intimate and timeless bond shared between parents and their children. Each frame encapsulates moments of tenderness, love, and the unspoken language of familial ties, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the universal experience of human connection.
In her landscape compositions, Suarez embarks on a journey of cultural rediscovery, weaving together the threads of Peru's diverse heritage and majestic natural landscapes. With each photograph, she endeavors to capture the essence of Peru — a land as vast and diverse as its traditions and history. Through her lens, viewers are transported to the heart of Peru, where ancient traditions intertwine with the breathtaking beauty of the land.
Suarez's work serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication to preserving and celebrating the essence of Peru and its cultural legacy. With every click of the shutter, she invites viewers to embark on a visual odyssey, where the past meets the present, and the soul of a nation is immortalized in pixels and light.
Amazon River, Photography, 30x40 cm, 2017 © Maria Suarez
INTERVIEW
First of all, can you tell us a little about your background and how you became a photographer?
I am a Peruvian photographer with a background in audiovisual communications from Peru. My journey brought me to New York, where I pursued a master's degree in digital photography. My passion for photography ignited at the age of 4 when I received my first toy camera. I was instantly captivated by the art form and the creative possibilities it offered.
What drew you to focus on family portraits in your photography?
I was drawn to family photography because of the genuine connections I witnessed between parents and children. While exploring various types of photography, I discovered that capturing these bonds is not only fun but also incrediblyrewarding and creative. The unique dynamics and relationships within families fascinate me, making each session a new and inspiring experience.
Iquitos, Photography, 30x40 cm, 2017 © Maria Suarez
How does your Peruvian heritage influence your work, both in portraits and landscapes?
My Peruvian heritage deeply influences my approach to client interactions, imbuing them with the warmth and hospitality characteristic of Latin American traditions. When capturing landscapes, I draw upon my roots, where traditions, colors, and compositions from Peru have initially shaped my work and continue to influence my photography here.
What are some of the key themes you explore in your photographs?
He key themes I explore in my photos revolve around relationships and bonds with father or mother figures, as well as our connection with nature and the pure joy found in everyday moments. These themes are central to my photography as they capture the essence of human connections and the beauty of our natural surroundings.
Can you share a memorable experience or story from one of your photography sessions?
One memorable experience for me was photographing twins. Initially, one was asleep while the other woke up, and then, eventually, both were peacefully asleep together. It highlighted how my workflow adapts to each unique subject, which is part of the enjoyment of photography—being flexible and responsive to capture those special moments.
Kezi and Rio, Photography, 30x40 cm, 2023 © Maria Suarez
Newborn, Photography, 30x40 cm, 2022 © Maria Suarez
How do you capture the essence of Peruvian culture in your family portraits?
In my portraits in Peru, clients often brought traditional items that hold significance in our culture. For instance, I remember one session where a family brought a red and black bracelet that was believed to protect the baby from negative energies. Incorporating these cultural elements added a deeper, more meaningful layer to the portraits, reflecting our rich traditions and beliefs.
What do you find most rewarding about being a family portrait photographer?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is undoubtedly preserving lasting memories for families. It brings me immense joy when clients appreciate my work and cherish the images we create together, knowing that these moments will be cherished for years to come.
How do you prepare for a photo shoot to ensure you capture the depth of human connection?
I always prioritize communication with my subjects to ensure I understand and accommodate their needs. For instance, when working with a mom who has had a C-section, I take extra care to choose poses that are comfortable and safe for both the mother and the baby. It's essential to create a supportive and respectful environment where everyone feels at ease during the session.
Paucartambo, Photography, 30x40 cm, 2019 © Maria Suarez
What are some of the challenges you face when photographing families, and how do you overcome them?
Working with babies presents unique challenges, as their behavior can be unpredictable, and their comfort is paramount. I always strive to create a soothing environment throughout the session to ensure the baby remains comfortable. If a baby is unwell or there are health concerns, I prioritize rescheduling the photoshoot to a time when the baby is healthier. Ultimately, the well-being of the baby and ensuring the family's comfort are my top priorities.
What future projects or themes are you excited to explore in your photography?
Landscape photography is a future project that excites me greatly, whether it's exploring the landscapes here in the US or capturing the beauty of my homeland. I look forward to delving deeper into this genre and discovering new perspectives and natural wonders to showcase through my lens.
Artist’s Talk
Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.
