This past weekend, I had the chance to photograph La Onda 2025, a Latin music festival produced by BottleRock. I was there covering the event for Dulce y Picante TV, focusing on both photography and video.
Festivals like this are some of my favorite environments to work in. There’s something about the energy of a live crowd that I miss once its done. Every direction you look, there’s a story happening. I saw families with their kids on their shoulders, friends dancing and laughing, couples singing their hearts out. And yeah, people crying during heartbreak songs. But, overall the joy that is experienced is contagious, and it’s the kind of thing I love capturing.
One of my favorite parts of the day was wandering through the food area between sets. I picked up a mangonada from Fruta and saw people all around me enjoying tacos, mole, and churros. Along with live Mariachi and drinks by some of the sponsors including Don Julio.
At one point I turned a corner and found myself in front of a live lucha libre match. The masked wrestlers were flying off the ropes, hyping up the crowd.
El Club was packed. DJs were spinning reggaeton and Latin hits while the crowd danced under glowing lights. It felt like stepping into a mini nightclub tucked inside the festival.
The Silent Club was another cool spot. Everyone wore headphones and switched between two live DJs that people can alternate between with.
As a Latino creative myself, it was powerful to see so much of our culture being celebrated and shared. People from all backgrounds showed up to enjoy the music, the food, and the community. That mix created a unique energy throughout the entire weekend.
On the gear side, I came fully prepared. I ran dual Sony bodies, one with a 70-200mm lens and the other rotating between a 12-24mm, 16-35mm, and 24-70mm. I shoot exclusively with GM glass for sharpness, flexibility, and reliability. My approach is all about anticipating the moment and moving with intention. Whether I’m capturing a headliner on stage, a fan reacting to their favorite song, or a behind the scene moment, I’m always thinking in terms of telling a story.
Even though I was also filming interviews and editing on the go, I still came away with a solid gallery of shots that reflect the heart of the weekend. I also got to meet some incredible staff and crew, and it was great to see how well the media side of things was organized. Special thanks to Armando Garcia and Eugenia Schmidt for making sure everything ran smoothly.
La Onda 2025 was a reminder of why I love this work. The fast pace, the unpredictability, the mix of cultures and sounds, the challenge of adapting, it pushes me creatively. And when it all comes together, it’s so worth it.
If you’re part of a festival team, artist camp, or media outlet looking for concert and music festival coverage, feel free to explore more of my work. I’m always open to future collaborations that align with the kind of storytelling I love. Real moments, real energy, and visuals that reflect the heart of an event.
Thanks for reading. Check out the full photo gallery below.
