Let’s address the elephant in the room right away: I am not a photographer, I am a writer.
I don’t spend my weekends debating the merits of mirrorless vs DSLR on Reddit, and I don’t have a lens collection worth more than my car. I actually landed here because Adorama was looking for a writer. We clicked immediately during the interview process, and the rest is history. But, as I’ve settled into this role, I’ve realized that being the “non-shooter” in a room full of experts isn’t a bug — it’s actually my biggest feature.
A writer’s art of translation
My job isn’t to take photos. However, my job is to ensure the story behind them lands. I approach every draft that crosses my desk with the fresh eyes of a beginner. This perspective is my secret weapon. It allows me to spot when an article is getting bogged down in intimidating jargon and help the author simplify the message without losing the technical lesson. My goal is to keep our blog readable for everyone, from the nervous beginner unboxing their first camera to the seasoned expert looking for a quick refresher.
I am always hunting for that specific spark in a draft: connection. I look for elements that bridge the gap between the writer and the reader. When I feel that the original author isn’t just reciting specs but is genuinely communicating a message, I know we have a piece of content that is going to be a fantastic read.
My gear crush: The Fujifilm X-T5
Just because I don’t shoot professionally doesn’t mean I’m immune to “Gear Acquisition Syndrome.” I spend my days reading about the finest engineering in the industry. If I had to pick up a camera tomorrow and start my own journey, I would pick the Fujifilm X-T5.
As a writer, I love describing visuals, and this camera is a visual masterpiece in itself. There is something about the tactile, retro dials that appeals to my love for classic storytelling. But beyond the aesthetics, looking at the specs — that massive 40MP APS-C sensor and the 5-axis in-body image stabilization — it feels like the perfect tool for capturing the kind of rich and detailed stories I love to write about.
Life on one side of the lens
While I might not be behind the lens, I am very comfortable in front of it. As the first grandchild on both sides of my family, I grew up with cameras pointed at me constantly. This gave me a lifelong appreciation for Portrait Photography.
When I pose for studio shoots now, the process feels entirely natural. I love studying the way models gaze into the lens and how they can communicate a complex emotion or message without speaking a single word. This experience helps me edit our portraiture and lighting articles with a unique empathy. I know exactly what the subject is feeling, and I have an idea of what it takes to make them look their best.
The island life
When I’m not polishing articles about aperture and composition, I am usually in a beach town. I’m based in Cebu City, and I take full advantage of the island life. I actually just got back from Moalboal, a beach town nearby, where I tried canyoneering for the first time. It was an incredible experience, though I admit it was excruciating — my body is still reminding me of the physical toll!
Whether I’m snorkeling in Siargao (where I spent time a few months ago), surfing, or just journaling at a local café in Cebu with a sweet drink, I am always observing. I love good local food, deep conversations with the people I love, and writing about random topics that spark my curiosity.
My editorial promise as a writer
In a world overflowing with technical specs and dry manuals, I view my job as a writer as a quality control filter for your curiosity. Every article I edit is an opportunity to make photography more accessible and less intimidating.
I might not be a photographer by trade, but I am a student of the craft by proximity, and I am learning right alongside you. My goal is to make sure that every time you visit our blog, you leave with a clearer understanding than when you arrived.
