Communism, vintage American cars, rum, and cigars - this was the extent of my knowledge of Cuba. Determined to stretch these preconceived notions and my creative muscles, I approached photographing the mysterious country with risk and vulnerability. I was unequivocally open to the bounty and beauty of the people of Cuba.

In Havana, gestures of openness and freedom ripple through crowded streets. The closeness of the people reflects weavings of Cuba’s communist ideals. There is a robust sense of sharing, a genuine concern for each others good. It’s evident in the way complete strangers invite you inside their homes, in the school movements that channel community engagement, and even in the communal raising of children.

In Old Havana the streets are narrow, doors and windows of ancient buildings are agape, beckoning curios photographers like myself to wander inside. The tight urbanism echoes Cuba’s culture of closeness. Every frame is filled with warm smiles and bustling streets.

Every boulevard and side alley is an ongoing thoroughfare of activity that provides endless photographic and participatory opportunity. Huddles of young and old invited me to join them in games of chess, basketball, and a swig of fine Cuban rum! I was welcomed and genuinely accepted into these spaces. I think the intimacy of my street photography gives you a sense of this closeness.

Their heartfelt acceptance made me feel less like an outsider and more like a neighbor.

The biggest takeaway from my trip to Cuba is that it is a country of villages, closely connected, each village dedicated to bringing friendship back to the forefront of the human experience. With the distraction of phones and social media, I’m really taking this experience to heart.

If you’re not getting invited to take a shot of rum and play a game of chess, are you really being vulnerable?

Be vulnerable and reap the gift of friendship!

Shot mostly on 35mm film.