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“Cuban Repair Shop”This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please readour disclosurefor more info.
American documentary photographerMichael Chinniciis in love with Cuba.
Chinnici’s powerful visuals are accompanied by stories in English and Spanish to help guide the narrative.
Many of these stories are told by the Cubans who have created strong bonds with the New York-based photographer.
“The Children of Cuba”
And together, they are helping tell a story of Cuba’s past, present, and future.
Turning the pages, it’s impossible not to feel Chinnici’s love for Cuba.
Read on for My Modern Met’s exclusive interview and pick up a copy ofVanishing CubaonRed Octopus PublishingorAmazon.
“Vanishing Sun”
The Children of Cuba
What sparked your love for documentary photography and investigating other cultures through your art?
There are many genres of photography.
They all appeal to photographers in different ways.
“A Room With a View”
I love to connect with my subjects.
I get this mainly through people and environmental captures.
I dont get that kind of feedback from more static photography.
“Sunrise on the Malecon”
I fell in love with documentary photography because it captures real life in a beautiful and truthful way.
It allows the viewer to see the world through my eyes and better understand the story that Im telling.
I enjoy giving people a better understanding of the world around them.
“Bullet Nose”
I’m no different.
I’ve traveled to many countries, and there’s something exceptional about Cuba and Cuban culture.
The people have beauty in their souls.
“Exotic Beauty”
A Room With a View
When did it then transform into something larger?
I’m now up to 28 trips with my upcoming April trip.
My photography travel companyPhoto Workshop Adventuresleads photographic and cultural trips worldwide, including Cuba.
“Taxi Driver”
I’ll probably continue to go to Cuba several times a year for as long as its feasible.
What was the most surprising thing you learn through your time in Cuba?
The most surprising thing I’ve learned is how similar Cubans are to Americans.
Other than the distinct differences between the governments and the landscape, the people are the same.
We feel an affinity toward each other.
It’s pretty remarkable.
The 60-plus-year trade embargo against Cuba is still in place.
Think how that embargo affects everyday life for Cubans.
You would think there would be much hatred and anger toward Americans.
It’s the opposite.
Strangely, I see only anger toward the Cuban government.
Bullet Nose
What were some of the biggest changes you saw in Cuba throughout your trips?
Fewer young women giving birth.
Many new hotels sit empty, waiting for the next surge in tourism.
It’s strange to see.
I’ve also witnessed positive changes, such as capitalism.
But they are few and far between.
Exotic Beauty
Is there any image in particular that has special meaning to you, and how so?
The book contains 300 images, edited from a collection of tens of thousands.
But since you are asking the question, I will tell you about the story behind one photo.
I took an image of a young woman titledExotic Beauty.
The title describes her unique blend of ethnicities.
It’s not my favorite, but it has a very special meaning.
I was in a restaurant in Old Havana when I noticed a waitress with a unique look.
I asked her if I could photograph her, and she graciously accepted.
Soon after, Dayle and I became friends (like I do with so many of my encounters).
Fast forward several months later.
Recently, they were married in Florence, Italy.
Taxi Driver
What do you hope that people take away when looking atVanishing Cuba?
Feel my connection to the Cuban people and appreciate my photography.
