Our Latina Lens
The Comunidad
Our Latina Lens is a community of U.S.-based Latina photographers who find inspiration and motivation in other Latina photographers, who want to engage in a culturally connected way with peers, mentors and teachers.
We share resources, skills and opportunities with each other. We celebrate our accomplishments and together learn about Latina photographers who have contributed to the visual narrative of the U.S.
Photographers of all levels and specialties are welcome. We do not have a hierarchy of specialties here. We all want each other to succeed and find genuine joy in each other’s accomplishments- whether it is being selected for a national brand campaign, getting that prestigious artist residency or picking up your camera for the first time in years to document your family.
What do we mean by Latina/e?
We know that labels attached to identity are complicated if not impossible, frustrating and limiting. And, our community needed a name. The aim of this community is to serve women identifying and gender-expansive folks who have cultural roots in Latin America. The term Latina may resonate with you and it may not, if the preceding statement is one you connect to, then you are welcome. Within our community we will honor how you want to identify. We aim to create a welcoming and safe space to connect and grow as creatives and professionals so we can increase each other’s visibility in the photography industry.
All images on this site were taken by Kita Zuleta at Bravo Studios with LA fotógrafas.
Mission
Our Latina Lens connects, supports, and elevates US-based Latina/e photographers past, present and future.
Vision
The vision for Our Latina Lens is to serve as a safe, inclusive and nurturing national community centering and connecting Latina/e photographers not only to each other and the wider world but also to the photographic legacy that previous Latina/e photographers have left us of the history of the United States.
OLL serves as a hub of resources for and about women identifying and gender expansive Latina/e photographers. We empower accomplished photographers in the community to be mentors, teachers and role models for the next generation of photographers. We share opportunities for artistic and creative growth to facilitate success in any way we can.
Mónika Aldarondo-Lugo
Hola! I’m a photographer, podcaster and creative shape shifter. Since my first 110mm magenta Mickey Mouse camera as a child, creating images has always been a grounding force when I needed it.
My formal and informal studies have included photojournalism, documentary, conceptual and family photography. I hold degrees in journalism and art education. I spent a decade as an educator and then Creative Director at Boston Arts Academy.
As a military brat and adult nomad who has lived in 11 homes across 3 countries and 7 states, I have learned a lot about building community. I am fiercely proud of my Puerto Rican heritage and love learning about and connecting with so many Latine photographers.
I founded Our Latina Lens to be the safe and uplifting photographic community I have needed throughout my journey with photography, but could never find.
I now live in the SF Bay Area with my partner and son, who I support in unschooling. I am an advocate for folks with chronic diseases, specifically autoimmune liver disease. As an organ donation recipient, I am also a Donate Life ambassador and am happy to share my experience and answer questions about the organ donation process.
Gracias to our Sponsors
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our valued sponsors whose support fuels our mission to empower Latina photographers and celebrate their unique perspectives.
Support Our Work
Friends, our community of Latina/e photographers uplifts and empowers each other. Will you donate to help us connect, support, and elevate the creative talents of Latina/es nationwide?
Your gift fuels our shared mission to nurture artistic growth, increase visibility and cultivate mentors. ¿Que dices? Donate now and be part of ensuring our work continues!