“Guerrero is its own world, a colorful universe full of experiences, stories, and tragedies. Above all, it’s a land of warriors,” Paul Ávila.
Paul Ávila’s journey into photography began not in a studio or with a camera, but through the vibrant memories of his childhood in Guerrero. Born in a state rich with culture and stunning landscapes, Paul’s deep connection to his roots would ultimately guide his path as a photographer.
“Since I was young, I’ve always been observant, drawn to the small details. As I grew older, I learned about the customs and traditions of my town. At first, I thought they were common in other parts of the state, but when I realized they were unique, I wanted to share them with the world,” he says.
“Little by little, I began to learn more about my municipality, then the state, and its big festivals.” The more he learned, the more he realized that Guerrero has so much to offer, and Paul wants to be a part of that story. “I want to help promote and preserve what we have here,” Paul says.
Paul traces his early inspiration to his father. “My first exposure to photography came when my dad gave me a photography book. I was fascinated.” That gift marked the start of his journey.
His path to photography was also shaped by his formal education. “I have a degree in communication sciences, which laid the foundation for my growing interest, eventually turning into a passion,” he says.
Paul considers himself largely self-taught in documentary photography. His learning was shaped through field research and by living in and witnessing the traditions of villages.
“At first, I didn’t know which path to take, but life and circumstances led me to where I am now, and I love it,” he reflects. “What captivates me most is culture—exploring the origins of dances, traditions, and customs in villages.”
“I’m drawn to them because they take me back in time. Just thinking about how these traditions began, who founded them, what the world must have looked like back then, everything that had to happen for them to take shape, and how long it takes to prepare for them, fascinates me.” For Paul, each photograph is a way of connecting the past with the present—capturing traditions for generations to come.
“Guerrero is its own world, a colorful universe full of experiences, stories, and tragedies. But above all, it’s a land of warriors, a people with history, and traditions brimming with color and magic. Through my lens, I capture every detail, driven by the emotion that comes from learning each story,” he explains.
“For me, it’s always important to capture unique moments, and I do so with respect. One of the first things I do when entering any space is ask for permission, especially from the environment. For instance, if I visit a community, the first thing I do is connect with the world around it before stepping in. My approach is more emotional; it’s what drives me in my work and within my camera.”
Paul has been deeply moved by the people and places that have welcomed him along the way. “Every story, every tradition, every person leaves me with a piece of my own story. But what stays with me most are the moments when elders share the history of our experiences. It feels like being transported back to the very beginning of those traditions and dances.”
Photography has also taught Paul valuable life lessons. “It’s about observing the world around me, trusting in my own vision, and, above all, respecting every space I enter.” These principles, shaped by his personal experiences, guide his work.
Looking back on his journey, Paul would tell his younger self to trust the path. “Trust the process; it will be a long and somewhat difficult journey, but you will meet the right people who will take you to places you never imagined reaching.” His own journey reflects this belief, as each project has led him to new opportunities and growth.
One project that remains close to Paul’s heart is his series, Colores de mi Tierra (Colors of My Land). “The most special photograph, the one that marked a turning point in my photographic journey, is Colores de mi Tierra. I still look at it, and it brings back that same emotion I felt when I first captured it. Whenever I’m lacking inspiration, I turn to it, and it helps me organize my thoughts,” he reflects.
“The project I’m eager to complete is a book about Huitziltepec, a community I hold close to my heart. From the moment I arrived to photograph its people, they welcomed me with open arms,” Paul explains. “Huitziltepec has become a place I truly cherish,” he adds.
Paul’s photographic style is bold and vibrant, much like the festivals and traditions he documents. As he describes it, “My style is very colorful. I love for people to see the colors I observe when I enter the local festivities. I wish they could feel the energy and the scents in the air, but with the colors, I believe they can be transported beyond the screen.”
Building on his growth as a photographer, Paul’s work with El Sol de Chilpancingo, a local newspaper, gave him the chance to bring his stories to a wider audience. “Working with El Sol de Chilpancingo was a pleasant surprise for me,” he reflects. “It allowed me to reach a new milestone in my life, without the need to jump through hoops.”
“The most important thing is that they’ve let me stay true to my own stories. They don’t impose photos or narratives on me; it’s free, and I’ve been able to keep my essence. This freedom has helped me grow both personally and professionally,” he says.
Paul Ávila’s photography is not just about capturing images; it’s about preserving the soul of Guerrero—its people, its history, and its enduring traditions. Through his lens, he brings to life a world that is rich in color, filled with stories of resilience and triumph, and a deep connection to the land and its customs.
As he reflects on the significance of his work, it becomes clear that for Paul, photography is an act of love and reverence for his roots. By sharing Guerrero’s vibrant identity with the world, he ensures that the stories, both joyful and tragic, are never forgotten. In every photo, Paul invites us to see the beauty and magic that he sees—capturing not just moments, but the very heart of a land that continues to inspire him at every turn.
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Soledad Quartucci, CEO, Latina Republic
Latina Republic envisions a world where the beauty and resilience of Latin American and Caribbean cultures are recognized and appreciated globally. By amplifying the voices of artists and cultural custodians, we strive to cultivate a deeper understanding of the region’s challenges and triumphs. Our goal is to inspire greater appreciation for the arts as a tool for empathy, unity, and transformative social change. Through our work, we aim to equip all stakeholders with essential insights for addressing regional challenges, ultimately enriching the global cultural landscape and portraying the victories and hardships of everyday life in Latin America.
