Yuri Peña

My name is Yuri Peña, I was born and raised in Houston, TX, however, my roots come from San Luis Potosi and Matamoros, Mexico. Artistry is a bloodline through the Peña family and along the many forms of art – Photography became my passion. One early afternoon, I walked the streets of Houston-third ward area looking for something or someone interesting to photograph for a school project. I noticed an elderly lady sitting on her small porch that is the size of a family kitchen table. I took the initiative to ask her if I can photograph her exactly where she was sitting. She said, “Sure” very kindly. I looked around her neighborhood, and I wondered how long she has lived in one of the most dangerous areas of Houston. Her name was Ms. Erma, and she told me 47 years. Instantly, I knew that capturing this significant portrait of her meant that Photography was going to be a huge part of my life. Ms. Erma was 90 years old. Photojournalism became my primary focus than any other genre. I want to capture the realism of something or someone whether it is beautiful or not. Throughout my years of photographing I have learned to constitute dignifying portraits that are distinguished in stylistic approach as a photo story. My favorite thing to do as a Photojournalist is to develop a bond with my subject. It is important for me to be open minded, careful, research, and learn about my photo stories.