Photographer Carolina Isabel Salazar Is Exploring Latinx Beauty

“A lot of Hispanic profiles in front of the camera feel like that one version of what a Latino/a/x looks like in a Eurocentric way,” says Salazar. “That really hits home. I have very indigenous features, and I have never felt represented.” That feeling of being othered sparked this photography series and her desire to create something her entire community can relate to.

“We are a cosmic race, a global diaspora with extremely diverse beauty and unique qualities,” says the Guatemalan-American photographer. “As we speak, we are healing and coming into our power as a culture, yet we are still fighting for our place and are observed in a certain way within the media.”

With the assistance of mentees from Las Fotos Project, Salazar used her poetic, timeless, and dreamy aesthetic to photograph members of the Latinx community who are making their mark on culture as a whole. Her models: costume designer Sailor D. Gonzales, model and hairstylist Lana Hunter, laser cut artist Fatima Nieto, DJ and stylist Sandra Armenta, community organizer Andrea Skater, and many, many more (which you’ll see throughout this story!).

“This project's purpose is to capture some amazing beings that are contributing to the foundation and representation of our people in the creative world,” says Salazar. “Showing the people behind the photos, music, wardrobe, and events that inspire us.”

She continues: “We have yet to highlight the visionaries of our present. Celebrating their unique beauty is proof that our ancestry and culture are not a limitation but a power move. To be brown and proud in the spaces we shine through can create the lives we want and change the mindsets of those around us that don’t understand us.”

Through the Exploring Latinx Beauty portrait project, Salazar hopes to inspire women and show members of the LGBTQ+ Latinx community that they are beautiful and that there is space for them to achieve their dreams. “The change is happening as we speak,” she says. “And we can really change the trajectory of our people and heritage.”

Ready to showcase your unique beauty? Take our Beauty Quiz now to get started with your own IPSY subscription. Already an IPSY member? Refer your friends to earn points, which you can use toward products. Either way, don’t forget to check us out on Instagram and TikTok @IPSY.

Like this article? Share it with your friends by clicking the icons below!