Diego Cesar Monroy Chaparro
1. Congratulations on winning in the Global Photography Awards! Can you share a little about yourself, what inspired you to pursue photography, and how has your journey evolved since your first shot?
I am a physician by training, but in recent years, photography has become my greatest passion and hobby. I believe that photographers are social activists by nature; they capture reality and are present at the social and cultural events of their country or region. Through them, we learn what is happening in a given place. One evolves based on what is seen in daily life and by observing the work of peers
2. Can you share the story or inspiration behind your award-winning piece? How does winning this award make you feel about your journey in photography?
It is a great honor; I am overjoyed to have won the category, and it encourages me to continue in the world of photography. This contest is a wonderful opportunity for me to keep improving and striving to achieve my dreams. It is one of the greatest personal and professional achievements I have ever had. I feel very fortunate to have participated and to be among the winners.
3. How do you decide which photo to submit for a competition?
Based on the background information, the characteristics of the competition, and criteria from previous years while considering the past winners.
4. What first made you pick up a camera?
Life and mostly social events.
5. What’s your favorite type of photography, and why do you love it?
Street and documentary photography reveal the social, cultural, and even political reality of a country.
6. What’s your go-to camera setup, and why does it work best for your projects? What’s your favorite feature?
Modified lighting.
7. If someone looked at your work, what’s the one thing you’d want them to feel?
Love for photography and the genuine realization that my work is authentic and involves great sacrifice.
8. What was the most challenging part of capturing your winning shot?
Being in those places because I didn't have enough money to get there.
9. Is there a specific place or subject that inspires you the most?
Street and documentary photography.
10. Who or what has been your biggest influence in photography?
The people on the streets, in the villages, and in the places I have visited inspire me to capture life, as well as social, cultural, and political reality.
11. What message would you share to inspire photographers to participate in photography awards, and what advice would you give to help them excel in the competition?
Photography contests serve as a test within the photography world; experts in the field evaluate your work, and authoritative voices decide whether to select or reject it. Always review the winners from previous years, the themes, and the specific requirements of each contest.
12. What’s one piece of advice for someone just starting in photography?
You should always be persistent and seek to be original.
13. What role do editing and post-processing play in your creative workflow?
It may not seem like much, but you always have to pay attention to the little details, especially the lighting, though my work is always rooted in capturing what is real, the urban landscape, and lived experience.
14. How do you see technology, like AI, influencing the future of photography and your own approach?
AI must be used with great care, as the essence and originality of photography should always remain paramount. It serves as a tool, yet every photographer needs to understand it to avoid confusion; a street scene or a real landscape should never be altered by AI.
15. If you could photograph anything or anyone in the world, what would it be?
I would take a photograph of early Egyptian culture, as it is enigmatic, unique, and diverse.
