In the heart of El Morro, where ancient stones still echo the past, the old powder magazines became the stage for unveiling the new Team Cuba uniform. This wasn’t simply a photo session; it was a creative and technical challenge aimed at capturing more than just the look of a garment. It was about expressing identity, strength, and national pride.
The sunset was our ally. That golden, ever; changing light bathed the fortress walls and the sea, creating a perfect contrast between the warm tones of the sky and the deep blues of the uniform. But working with this light has its challenges: the window of time is short, and every minute demands quick decisions in framing, exposure, and direction.
A setting loaded with history
El Morro’s powder magazines have witnessed centuries of defense and endurance. Their weathered stone textures speak of strategy and resilience, while the surrounding sea symbolizes goals yet to be reached. On the horizon, Havana reminded us that every victory is built upon strong roots.
Technical and creative challenges
The session was captured with a Canon 5D Mark III and a selection of lenses that allowed me to play with different visual languages:
• Canon 50mm f/1.8 (shot at f/2.8) for close portraits, capturing expression and energy.
• Praktica 135mm f/2.8 to isolate details and compress the background, enhancing the drama of each pose.
• Pentacon 29mm f/2.8 to open the scene and show the connection between the subject and the environment.
The sunset demanded speed and precision. Every shift in light required immediate adjustments, and the backlight against the sea was both a challenge and an opportunity, keeping highlights from blowing out, preserving shadow details, and, above all, capturing the atmosphere of the moment.
More than images, a statement
The new uniform doesn’t just clothe the athletes; it wraps them in the colors of a nation, in the responsibility of representing it with dignity. This series is a tribute to those who train relentlessly, who overcome material and personal obstacles to keep moving forward, and to a country that, despite challenges, refuses to stop dreaming.
As the sun finally touched the horizon, the sea reflected a glow that seemed eternal. Between gunpowder, sea, and colors… Cuba kept looking ahead.
