What does it mean to preserve a culture through photography in a world that is constantly changing?

Sebastián Belaustegui, widely known as 'Suki', is a cultural photographer whose work spans over 3 decades, documenting the stories, traditions, and rituals of indigenous communities across Latin America, Africa, and Asia.

Through his portraits and projects like Guardians of Time, Suki has preserved cultural heritage while fostering empathy and understanding. His personal journey through profound mental health challenges has further shaped his life and work, inspiring resilience and authenticity in his art.

Highlights of my conversation with him:

• Experiences with severe mental health struggles, including anxiety, depression, and recoveries from it.
• The ethics of documenting indigenous communities and how to approach subjects with respect.
• How to use photography to elevate the voices of underrepresented cultures and educate others.
• The balance between raising awareness of indigenous populations and protecting them from overexposure.
• Why the experience of creating a photograph is often more meaningful than the final image.
• Teaching mindfulness, respect, and ethics in photography.
• Building relationships with subjects before taking photographs.
• Advice for photographers on slowing down, observing, and embracing the process over competition.

Find Suki's work on his channels:
Website: www.sebastian-suki-belaustegui.com
Instagram: @photosooky

Thank you to Luminar Neo for sponsoring this episode - get 25% discount on all their products here using the code MOODPODCAST25.
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