Alberto Domínguez is a self-taught photographer drawn to nature photography, particularly landscapes and wildlife. His latest work captures the essence of Panama through images that share its beauty and diversity. He shares more about how he started, his inspirations and the gear he’s currently using…
Our emerging photographer series aims to shed a light on up-and-coming talent. Photographers are offered a platform to share their work with a wider audience through the AP channels, with the scope of furthering their careers. We also get an insight into their inspirations, the camera gear used and future aspirations, as well as the journey taken into photography – which doesn’t have to be the most traditional route!
We’ll be sharing the work of photographers on our website and social media and even in the magazine. If you have recently started your photography journey or are a student / graduate, share your work with us at [email protected]
When and why did you start taking photographs?
I started taking photographs in November 2023. I wanted a way to document a part of my life that means a lot to me. I spend a lot of time in nature, whether it’s hiking, trail running, wildlife watching, or exploring new places, and photography became a way to preserve those experiences and memories.
At the time, my sister had an unused camera, so she gave it to me. What began as a way to document my adventures quickly grew into a creative passion and an important part of how I experience the world around me.
Which genre do you tend to work mostly in?
I mainly focus on nature photography, particularly landscapes and wildlife. I also enjoy street photography, especially while traveling. Although the subjects are different, both genres allow me to explore observation, composition, and storytelling through images.
What draws you towards your favoured genre?
I’m drawn to nature photography because of my passion for nature and wildlife. Photography allows me to document and connect with experiences that are already a big part of my life. I also enjoy street photography because I’m fascinated by the everyday life, architecture, and stories that can be found in cities.
Tell us a little bit more about your photographic training (if any)?
I am a self-taught photographer and have not taken any formal photography courses.
Instead, I have learned by studying the work of photographers whose images inspire me, while continuously building my understanding of the fundamentals of photography. Combining those influences with my own creative eye has allowed me to gradually develop a style that feels authentic to who I am as a photographer.
Tell us more about your work?
One of my most recent projects was a collection of some of my favorite photographs from Panama, the country I call home.
The collection brought together landscapes, wildlife, and natural scenes from different parts of the country. My goal was to capture the essence of Panama through images and share the beauty and diversity that make it such a special place.
What kind of reaction has it had?
The response was very positive, and the collection reached thousands of people.
What meant the most to me was seeing how many people connected with the message behind the images. Many viewers felt a sense of pride in being part of a country with such incredible natural beauty, and I was happy to see the photographs encourage a deeper appreciation for Panama’s landscapes and wildlife.
What has been your biggest photographic obstacle to date?
My biggest photographic obstacle has been finding my own visual identity.
Developing a style that genuinely reflects how I experience nature and the world around me has taken time. Through color, composition, and storytelling, I have worked to create images that communicate the emotions I feel when I am outdoors or exploring a place. It has been a challenging process, but also one of the most rewarding parts of my journey as a photographer.
Who are your biggest influences?
Two of my biggest influences are Gastón Luna and Hannes Becker.
Gastón Luna inspired me to explore more and to see nature differently, paying attention to details that I might have overlooked before photography became part of my life. Hannes Becker’s work has also had a strong influence on me, particularly his ability to combine nature with mood, emotion, and a darker visual style.
Studying the work of both photographers has helped shape my eye for color, composition, and storytelling, while encouraging me to develop a style of my own.
What equipment do you use?
I currently shoot with a Sony A7C II, primarily paired with a Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 and a Rokinon 35mm f/1.8. My secondary camera is a Sony A6000, and for aerial photography, I use a DJI Air 3 drone.
What would be your dream equipment to work with?
My dream camera would be a Hasselblad X2D 100C. The image quality, color rendition, and medium format sensor make it a camera I would love to work with someday.
What has been the highlight of your photography career so far?
One of the biggest highlights of my photographic journey so far was being granted access to a conservation facility dedicated to the Panamanian golden frog, one of the country’s most iconic and endangered species.
Having the opportunity to photograph such a remarkable animal up close was a very special experience. As someone who is passionate about nature and wildlife, it was both an honor and a reminder of the importance of conservation and the role photography can play in connecting people with the natural world.
What are your hopes for your photography career in the future?
My hope for the future is to share my photography with a wider audience and inspire more people, whether that means encouraging them to pick up a camera or simply spend more time exploring and appreciating nature.
Do you have a dream assignment?
As for a dream assignment, I would love to create a large exhibition of my work one day. Being able to showcase the images that best represent my journey as a photographer and share them with the people who have supported me along the way would be incredibly meaningful.
What piece of advice would you give to other aspiring photographers?
My advice to aspiring photographers would be to focus less on equipment and more on developing their creative vision.
In my opinion, the most important things when starting out are understanding the fundamentals of photography, developing a strong sense of composition, and staying true to your own creative instincts. When those elements come together, great images can be created with almost any camera.
Equipment can always be upgraded later but learning how to see and express your perspective is what truly makes a photographer.
Instagram: @az.frames
Success stories
At the 2026 AP Awards, Nick Teo was announced as our Emerging Talent winner for this documentary-fashion work. Previous emerging photographer award winners include Ethan Parker, Aliz Kovacs-Zoldi and Tariq Sadu. Si Jubb and Ethan Parker spoke at our Festival of Photography: Documentary event in 2025.
More reading:
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- These powerful photographs of the Bangladeshi floods will make you stop and think harder about climate change | Amateur Photographer
- These delicious food photos are sure to be a treat for your eyes
Do you want to win some great prizes for your photography? Enter your photos in our International Amateur Photographer of the Year competition. Free entry for photographers aged 13-21.
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