© Reynaldo San Martín, Latin America, National Awards Shortlist, Sony World Photography Awards 2023
We've been sharing a top photograph from the 2023 Awards on our Instagram each week and explaining why we love it. At the end of every month, we share those weekly pics on our Instagram Stories, asking you to vote your favourite. One of our recent winners is Reynaldo San Martín, a Bolivian photographer shortlisted in Latin America National Awards. We put the talented photographer in the spotlight...
Your shortlisted photograph is of the Illimani mountain in Bolivia. Can you share the story behind your image?
I often visit this place, because it has amazing viewpoints of the Andean Mountain range, especially the one in the image. I visualized it and returned to that point multiple times until the light was perfect for the shot I wanted.
You were shortlisted in this year's Latin America National Awards. What advice do you have for photographers thinking about submitting their work to the Sony World Photography Awards?
Be creative, and take the risk. Sometimes as a photographer you rely on others' opinion about your own work, but you have to trust yourself and be loyal to your own style.
You took up photography because...
I worked in the tourism industry for many years, traveled a lot and developed a special love for nature and wildlife. I decided to take this path to deliver a message of nature environmental conservancy.
Who or what has been the greatest influence on your photography?
The most important photographic influencer in my life is my father. He always shared his passion for photography with me. When I was a child, I used to play with his cameras and we used to go out and take pictures.
You’re a landscape and wildlife photographer. How do you approach getting the perfect shot in often unpredictable conditions, such as low light or bad weather?
For landscape, the key is planning and patience. The light is very important and changes everything. For wildlife, you have to study the behavior of the species you want to photograph. It’s better to travel with a specialist or a park ranger, they know everything.
The perfect shot also depends on technique, you have to know your camera and set it beforehand for the type of shots you want. Perfecting your technique will allow you to have less stress in difficult situations and therefore enjoy the process.
Favorite photographic quote?
“In my mind, I visualize how a particular… sight will appear on a print. If it excites me, there is a good chance it will make a good photograph. It is an intuitive sense, an ability that comes from a lot of practice.” – Ansel Adams
Are you currently working on any projects?
Yes, I am working on a project to visualize the impact of the urban footprint growth on our landscapes and natural heritage.
Follow Reynaldo San Martín on Instagram
