Lens on a human landscape captured in Oaxaca
One of the most frequent complaints about contemporary photography is that we’re flooded with a constant stream of images, most of which don’t deserve our attention. The very nature of how we "feed" with images has in fact changed, with most people no longer even seeing photos in front of a computer screen but in the much smaller one of a mobile phone. This, in addition to creating the conditions for rapid and distracted observation, therefore superficial, of photographs that are affected by a continuous scroll doesn’t allow certain images that would require a wider viewing surface to be appreciated. Such is the case with photos like this:
I took this photograph in Oaxaca de Juarez, from a bridge that allows us to approach the Central de Abastos (general market) of the city. These are the kind of images that present the vastness of space but at the same time give the opportunity to read something about the human condition and therefore offer a reflection on the people who live in this place.
On paper, I can assure you, a photo like this you caress it while you look at it. If we look at the negative we can highlight the elements even better thus having a better perception of the composition:
From observing the positioning of people within a vast space like this and seeing them immersed in activities, others simply waiting, perhaps a bus or a taxi, we have elements of understanding the society that populates the place.
This bed of asphalt inspires me a lot and I photograph it anytime I am there in Oaxaca. From a bridge overhanging a vast motorway junction, circled by buildings and structures, I can see a urban landscape that not anyone is going to photograph. And the main reason is because is considered not a nice place of the city, even dangerous, where you find prostitution and maybe drug dealers and thieves. It is the Oaxaca you don’t expect, the one of the working class, not the touristic Oaxaca.
My eye as a street photographer is fascinated by it. I observe from the bridge and take the photograph that will tell me a lot about the journey and an idea of photography that is certainly not that of many photographers who come here and who perhaps take refuge in the cliche.
Hey, guys, if you want to live a fantastic experience in Oaxaca until June 30th the Day of the Dead Photo Expedition is offered at a special price that allows you to save money. Check it out:
Oaxaca Día de Muertos Photography Experience 2026
More than a decade leading Día de Muertos photography expeditions in Oaxaca
October 30 – November 2, 2026 - Oaxaca, Mexico
Overview
There are few places in the world where photography, culture, memory, and human emotion intersect as powerfully as they do in Oaxaca during Día de Muertos.
For four days, we will immerse ourselves in one of Mexico's most meaningful traditions, exploring not only the public celebrations but also the quieter moments that often tell the deeper story.
This expedition is designed for photographers interested in documentary and street photography rather than staged imagery. We will work with reality as it unfolds, responding to the atmosphere, the people, the rituals, and the unexpected moments that emerge naturally throughout the city and surrounding communities.
Oaxaca during Día de Muertos is intense, emotional, chaotic, beautiful, and deeply human. It offers endless opportunities for visual storytelling while demanding sensitivity, patience, and respect.
This is not a photography tour focused on collecting images.
It is an experience focused on observation, presence, and creating meaningful work.
Expedition Leader
The expedition is led by Alex Coghe, an Italian documentary photographer, photojournalist, educator, and writer based in Mexico.
For more than fifteen years, Alex has dedicated his work to documenting everyday life, urban culture, and the human condition through long-term photographic projects. His images have been published internationally, while his work has been exhibited and recognized across multiple countries.
Known for his immersive and observational approach, Alex has photographed extensively throughout Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and the United States, developing a visual language rooted in authenticity, proximity, and storytelling.
Since 2011, he has led workshops, expeditions, masterclasses, and educational programs for photographers seeking to strengthen both their technical abilities and their personal vision. His teaching philosophy emphasizes observation, intuition, visual narrative, and the creation of meaningful photographic work.
Rather than focusing on technical perfection, Alex encourages participants to engage deeply with their surroundings and develop a more personal relationship with photography. The goal is not simply to take photographs, but to create images that carry atmosphere, emotion, and meaning.
Throughout the expedition, participants will receive direct field guidance, individual feedback, editing support, and insights drawn from years of professional editorial and documentary practice.
Important Booking Deadline
Accommodation in Oaxaca becomes extremely limited during Día de Muertos, often selling out several months in advance.
For this reason, registrations will close on August 30st, 2026, or earlier if all available places are filled.
Until July 31st, 2026 a particular early bird discount is applied.
Participants are strongly encouraged to secure their spot as soon as possible to avoid difficulties with flights and accommodation availability.
What to Expect
Over four intensive days, we will photograph throughout Oaxaca's historic center, traditional markets, neighborhoods, cemeteries, public gatherings, and cultural events connected to Día de Muertos.
The schedule remains flexible, allowing us to respond to the strongest photographic opportunities as they arise.
Alongside daily shooting sessions, we will dedicate time to image editing, sequencing, portfolio discussions, and individual feedback.
The focus is not simply on making successful individual photographs, but on building a coherent visual narrative that reflects your personal experience of Oaxaca during these extraordinary days.
For Whom
This expedition is intended for photographers who are genuinely interested in people, culture, and visual storytelling.
Previous experience in street or documentary photography is helpful but not required.
What matters most is curiosity, openness, and a willingness to engage with the world attentively and respectfully.
You Will Gain
A cohesive body of work created during the expedition.
Personal mentoring and photographic guidance throughout the experience.
A deeper understanding of documentary storytelling.
Greater confidence working in dynamic public environments.
Practical insights into editing and selecting photographs for long-term projects.
Gear Recommendations
Travel light.
One camera and a single prime lens are often all you need.
A 28mm, 35mm or 50mm lens is particularly well suited to the environments we will encounter.
Bring spare batteries, memory cards, and a laptop with Lightroom or Capture One for editing sessions.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Important Note
The itinerary is intentionally flexible.
Día de Muertos is a living celebration, and the most meaningful photographic opportunities often emerge unexpectedly.
Our priority will always be to follow the strongest visual stories rather than rigid schedules.
What the Expedition Includes
✔ Three nights accommodation in a centrally located place in Oaxaca City.
✔ Welcome dinner on the first evening.
✔ Guided photographic experience during Oaxaca's Day of the Dead celebrations
✔ Daily photography coaching and field guidance
✔ Group image reviews and constructive feedback
✔ Private participant community before and after the workshop
✔ Post-workshop online editing and storytelling session
✔ Individual portfolio review of your best images from the experience
✔ Publication of selected participant photographs in a collective Day of the Dead Photography Experience eBook
✔ Featured photographs in the official workshop recap video published on YouTube, with photographer credits
✔ Opportunity to be featured in the participant showcase gallery on Alex Coghe's website
✔ Certificate of participation
✔ Street and documentary photography sessions throughout Oaxaca.
✔ Local transportation related to expedition activities.
✔ Pre-expedition assistance and preparation guidance.
✔ Small group experience limited to a maximum of 7 participants.
What Is Not Included
International or domestic flights.
Airport transfers.
Meals other than the welcome dinner.
Travel insurance.
Personal expenses and gratuities.
Anything not specifically listed in the “What the Expedition Includes” section.
Why This Experience Is Different
Most photography tours end when you board your flight home.
This experience continues beyond Oaxaca. Participants receive feedback, publication opportunities, portfolio development guidance, and the chance to see their work included in projects that celebrate the collective visual story created during the workshop.
The goal is not simply to photograph Day of the Dead, but to leave Oaxaca with stronger images, a deeper understanding of visual storytelling, and work that deserves to be seen.
Places disappear. Traditions evolve. Photographs become historical documents faster than we imagine. This expedition is an opportunity to witness and document Oaxaca during one of the most extraordinary moments of its year.
ABOUT THIS PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE YOU CAN READ:
https://fstoppers.com/opinion/dia-de-muertos-cannot-be-photographed-hurry-902337
