Diego Cesar Monroy Chaparro is a Mexican photographer who believes the power of an image comes from what is captured in-camera rather than in post-production. His work highlights real-life moments and personal connections, including his beloved photograph, Smiling Llama, taken in Peru's Colca Valley.
The first photos I took were as a hobby; I sent some to other platforms and they got good ratings. As time went on, the quality of my work increased, and I understood that the world of photography must be professional, and I respect the great work of photographers and photojournalists around the world.
This is one of the greatest achievements in my short photography career. It's a great honour to be considered for this wonderful competition.
The series portrays the reality of the places that have had the greatest impact on my life: Lima and Mexico City.
The last photo, "Smiling Llama," shows the love I have for that place, the Colca Valley, and it's my favourite photo.
Normally, I would pick based on the background of awards and personal photographic criteria.
Street photography because it reflects social reality, cultural struggles, and documents the daily life of the local society.
In my case, a mobile phone!
Both joy and surprise.
The most challenging part in capturing this winning shot was definitely framing.
Street photography. It should be spontaneous and enigmatic.
All the curators who have selected my work have been some of the biggest influences in photography for me.
Review previous winners and photographic criteria to understand and help you further excel in any competitions.
Think carefully about your decision because it's very difficult and requires persistence. But the world of photography is beautiful.
Editing should be minimal but effective; the essence of photography is capturing the moment with the camera or with a cell phone.
Paying attention to the manipulation and creation of photographic material, it is a great opportunity for updating.
Some constellation or galaxy.
Discover the interview where Multi-Award-Winner Marcel van Beek Discusses Photography as a Path to Self-Understanding in this link here.