Cuba, the island nation has long been hidden behind the veil, under the regime of revolutionary Fidel Castro who came into power after overthrowing dictator Fulgencio Batista. Castro ruled with an iron fist for 49 years, and passed the regime to his brother, Raul Castro, on account of failing health. Fidel’s recent passing further brings hope that Raul will continue to loosen the grip allowing for the continuing development of friendly relationships as was seen by the reinstatement of diplomatic relations between the US and Cuba. The easing of the relationship welcomed President Obama, the first of any US president since 1928, to visit the Communist-ruled island.
The reopening of the relationship between the US and Cuba sparked my interest in visiting this island nation. Long hidden behind a curtain since the Revolution in 1959, I felt as I was now able to visit, experience and photograph first-hand the iconic sights of what many say is a country lost in time. Once considered the jewel of the Caribbean, romancing long-time resident Ernest Hemingway where he wrote The Old Man and the Sea at his Cuban estate, and the American mafia and gangsters who owned and operated casinos on the island, my curiosity was piqued about this charming eden that had been abruptly restricted from visitation and became a forbidden fruit. With this new-found mutual commitment to move forward between the two governments, I felt compelled to travel to Cuba. Together with 5 female photographer friends, we set out to explore, learn and photograph Cuba and its people.
In addition to photographing the iconic sites and cars that the usual visitors are attracted to, I was more interested into looking directly into the eyes of the Cuban people. I wanted to capture their inner soul and spirit through my camera, emphasizing their beautiful faces and enchanting eyes. I photographed them using my iPhone, which I found was non-threatening as my large, DSLR camera might have been. As a thank you for their time and gracious attitude, I utilized a small, smart phone printer, presenting them with an immediate print of their portrait, which came to life right before their eyes. For some, this was the only photograph they had of themselves or their family members, and quickly became a treasured keepsake. I gifted those prints to each subject as a token of my appreciation.
One particular man, (seen in the images above), in the western town of Viñales was so appreciative of his portrait print, that he invited my friends and I to his house for dinner with him and his daughter that evening. Another incident in Cienfuegos, we nearly caused a scene on a street where a group of women were ecstatic at having their portrait taken and receiving a print. They immediately gathered and brought more friends out into the street to share in this unique, photographic experience.
Even with a slight language barrier, there were smiles, heartfelt thanks, and a true appreciation for photography as I traversed the island, photographing the locals. I came away from that trip and experience feeling as if I not only met and photographed many Cubans, but also gained an insight into their hidden lives and the Cuban way of life.
