Returning to My Second Home: A Creative Storytelling Journey Back to Guatemala
San Juan La Laguna, Guatemala.
Sunrise view of San Pedro La Laguna, Guatemala, shot with my DJI Mavic Air 2 Drone.
After three years away, I finally returned to a place that holds an enormous part of my heart—Guatemala. I lived there for over four and a half years, and returning felt like reconnecting with a version of myself I had deeply missed. I lived all around Lake Atitlán and Antigua. That chapter of my life in Guatemala is where I truly grew into who I am on a soul level. It’s the place that sparked my love for Latin cultures, solo travel, and the courage to start my own business. Honestly, this is where it all began for me.
Coming back to the familiar rhythms, the lush nature, the warmth of the people, and the vibrant textures and colors of everyday life—it was like stepping back into a dream I never wanted to wake from.
This wasn’t just a nostalgic trip. It was a soul-nourishing creative adventure filled with purpose, reconnection, and new storytelling opportunities.
Initiating a heartfelt personal project
One of the most meaningful parts of my journey was beginning a new creative project focused on female Guatemalan spiritual guides. These women carry ancient wisdom passed down through generations. The project is still in its early stages, but it has already been transformational—both personally and creatively.
As a visual storyteller, I’m always drawn to narratives rich in heart, heritage, and healing. These women embody all of that and more. I can’t wait to share more as this project unfolds.
Collaborating with Water4Life Guatemala
While in Guatemala, I also had the opportunity to reconnect with my friends at Agua Para Vida Guatemala (Water for Life Guatemala), a remarkable organization dedicated to providing vital access to clean water in rural communities. We traveled to San Pedro La Laguna at sunrise to capture stunning drone footage of the lake, and later visited the rural village of Santa Lucía to document the community there—highlighting how local women are making handmade soaps to support both their families and the environment.
Documenting their impact—through both stills and video—reminded me just how powerful visual storytelling can be in amplifying voices and missions that truly make a difference.
Hotel Lifestyle Photography For Salvaje & Casa Aurora
In addition to the nonprofit work, I had the joy of capturing fresh lifestyle content for two hotels owned by dear friends and clients. These boutique properties are nestled in some of Guatemala’s most picturesque settings—think jungle views, volcano sunrises, and handcrafted details in every corner.
From serene sunrise moments to cozy hospitality touches, I created a library of images that reflect the essence of their spaces and stories. These kinds of shoots are always a joy for me—intimate, immersive, and full of creative freedom.
Why Guatemala Will Always Be Part of My Story
Guatemala isn’t just a destination—it’s a part of me. It’s where my creative soul came alive, where I learned to listen deeply to my body, and where I built a community that feels like family. Coming back reminded me that this place will always be a second home. I’m endlessly grateful for how warmly I’ve been welcomed in Guate over the years, and I’m committed to continuing to give back however I can.
This trip rekindled so much for me. I’m walking away with new collaborations, renewed inspiration, and a heart full of gratitude for a country that has shaped me in countless ways.
My lens is always ready to capture stories that matter.
