Mercedes Diaz Barreiro Aldana, a graduate from Norwich University of the Arts, explores her Mexican heritage, folklore and history through a project titled ‘Soul of Mexico’. Originally inspired by her devotion to home, her work soon gained input from her studies abroad and became a collaborative project with other young artists. Mercedes tells me more about how she got into photography, her work which I discovered at Free Range (The Truman Brewery), and her future goals…

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!

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'Mi México Lindo y Querido'. This self-portrait captures the emotional distance between myself and my homeland. It is a visual testament to the gratitude, honor, and love I carry for Mexico. While creating this image, I evoked the spirit of Jorge Negrete, my grandfather’s favorite singer and the soundtrack of my youth. This photograph embodies his iconic song translated to 'beautiful and beloved Mexico,' a lifelong sentiment carried in the heart of Mexicans.
‘Mi México Lindo y Querido’ from Soul of Mexico. This self-portrait captures the emotional distance between myself and my homeland. It is a visual testament to the gratitude, honor, and love I carry for Mexico. While creating this image, I evoked the spirit of Jorge Negrete, my grandfather’s favorite singer and the soundtrack of my youth. This photograph embodies his iconic song translated to ‘beautiful and beloved Mexico,’ a lifelong sentiment carried in the heart of Mexicans. Image: Mercedes Diaz Barreiro Aldana

When and why did you start taking photographs?

Raised by an artist, I discovered my passion for visual storytelling as a toddler, documenting my childhood with a toy Disney film camera. What began as a natural instinct to observe and capture everyday moments transformed into a career path in 2019 when I bought my first Canon digital camera and began studying photography formally. Today, I use my lens to challenge perspectives, see the world through a creative framework, and paint with light to connect deeply with people and my inner soul.

Which genre do you tend to work mostly in?

My practice centers primarily on portraiture, drawn to the creative freedom of building intentional sets that tell a subject’s story. Through fine art photography, I construct conceptual realities to represent diverse peoples and cultures. Ultimately, my work aims to engage and educate viewers on vital themes, including cultural identity, environmental sustainability, and the deep spirituality found in nature.

'Ave del Paraíso'. Beyond its iconic orange and purple petals, the Bird of Paradise evokes the spirit of the Mexican jungle. This treasure brightens the landscape, representing a life of freedom and pure joy. While taking the photograph, my mind was connected to ancient architecture which is why I positioned each flower on a different frame axis. To create an organic pyramid shape making a connection to the location where my favorite Mexican pyramid stands, in Uxmal Yucatán, the most beautiful jungle I’ve seen. This bloom is a piece of my heart, a vivid reminder of bustling Mexican flower stalls, the rich landscapes of Yucatán, and a culture that speaks in brilliant colour.
‘Ave del Paraíso’ from Soul of Mexico. Beyond its iconic orange and purple petals, the Bird of Paradise evokes the spirit of the Mexican jungle. This treasure brightens the landscape, representing a life of freedom and pure joy. While taking the photograph, my mind was connected to ancient architecture which is why I positioned each flower on a different frame axis. To create an organic pyramid shape making a connection to the location where my favorite Mexican pyramid stands, in Uxmal Yucatán, the most beautiful jungle I’ve seen. This bloom is a piece of my heart, a vivid reminder of bustling Mexican flower stalls, the rich landscapes of Yucatán, and a culture that speaks in brilliant colour. Image: Mercedes Diaz Barreiro Aldana

Tell us a little bit more about your photographic training. Why did you want to study on this particular course?

I recently graduated with a First-Class Honours BA in Photography from Norwich University of the Arts, where I dedicated three intensive years to studio practice. My decision to study here stemmed from a desire to move abroad, experience a new culture, and expand my horizons, with the ultimate goal of working in London’s vibrant creative sector. Leaving Mexico to build a new life in Norwich was a massive milestone, and photography became the tool that helped me shape my new identity. Through this technically rigorous course, I directed, styled, and shot weekly projects, collaborating closely with fellow creatives to bring my vision to life.

Tell us more about your project/exhibition/recent work? etc

My recent project called “Soul of Mexico,” which was exhibited at The Truman Brewery for Free Range 2026, has been my latest work based on my Mexican heritage. The project explores Mexican folklore and history inspired by my profound devotion to home which I have been expressing through my photographs due to being far away and maintaining that connection with art.

“Soul of Mexico” was further shaped by my photographic studies abroad, which taught me to embrace a more sustainable and collaborative practice. With input from other young artists, the sets involved handmade props, recycled backdrops and charity-shop items to support the community’s principles. From this, I proudly shared my work as the product of multiculturalism and its potential to create art.

'La Bandera'. Green, white, and red: the living canvas of the Mexican flag. In this image, green evokes the hope carried in our hands, white mirrors the purity of our people's hearts, and red honours the blood spilled by those who fought for our freedom. Wrapped in the depth of Mexican history, the model stands with unmistakable pride, holding fast to the red. Her headpiece features corn leaves, a sacred tribute to the ancient symbol of life. Together, these elements transform the photograph into a profound visual love letter to our country, born straight from the flag itself.
‘La Bandera’ from Soul of Mexico. Green, white, and red: the living canvas of the Mexican flag. In this image, green evokes the hope carried in our hands, white mirrors the purity of our people’s hearts, and red honours the blood spilled by those who fought for our freedom. Wrapped in the depth of Mexican history, the model stands with unmistakable pride, holding fast to the red. Her headpiece features corn leaves, a sacred tribute to the ancient symbol of life. Together, these elements transform the photograph into a profound visual love letter to our country, born straight from the flag itself. Image: Mercedes Diaz Barreiro Aldana

What kind of reaction has it had?

The project has received an incredibly positive response, ranging from the team involved in the photoshoots to external industry professionals, including creatives and the Association of Photographers. Seeing people engage so deeply with the vibrant colors and cultural narrative of Mexico truly motivates me to continue documenting cultural subjects.

Being named a finalist in the People category for the Student AOP Awards was an absolute honor. It also provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with established photographers like Rich Lakos, who shared invaluable feedback on my work. Ultimately, capturing Mexico’s profound passion for artisanal crafts has been immensely rewarding, allowing me to collaborate with fellow creatives like Pacheco from Our Latin Thing and help expand the Latin American creative community.

'Tulipa', from Rooted in Her. This photograph shows the favorite flower of one of the women I interviewed for this project and their connection to flowers. By featuring a trio of tulips rather than a solitary bloom, this arrangement evokes a profound sense of companionship. This visual unity directly mirrors the heartwarming community of female gardeners. The deliberate composition brings the three flowers into physical contact, their touching leaves mapping out natural curves and leading lines that guide the eye directly to the petals. Though bound together, each tulip retains a unique architectural structure, celebrating both collective harmony and individual beauty.
‘Tulipa’, from Rooted in Her. This photograph shows the favorite flower of one of the women I interviewed for this project and their connection to flowers. By featuring a trio of tulips rather than a solitary bloom, this arrangement evokes a profound sense of companionship. This visual unity directly mirrors the heartwarming community of female gardeners. The deliberate composition brings the three flowers into physical contact, their touching leaves mapping out natural curves and leading lines that guide the eye directly to the petals. Though bound together, each tulip retains a unique architectural structure, celebrating both collective harmony and individual beauty. Image: Mercedes Diaz Barreiro Aldana

What equipment do you use?

My technical foundation is built on adaptability, developed in large part through the extensive equipment resources at Norwich University of the Arts. My portfolio spans from Pentax DSLRs to the Canon R5 mirrorless system. While the R5, alongside Elinchrom and Amaran lighting powers the majority of my imagery, my flower still-life series demands a different pace.

For these, I step into a quiet space and use a Phase One camera that allows me to focus on absolute precision and deeply connect with my subject. This university training is paired with real-world industry experience, while assisting on professional sets in London, I have become confident in adapting to various studio environments using Profoto, Broncolor, and Godox lighting systems.

'Flower Crown' from Rooted in Her. Featuring a model in a green blazer and an intricate flower headpiece, this image expands on the themes of elegance and confidence born from a connection with the earth. It illustrates how women derive strength and authority from the communal support of gardeners, a network that directly elevates their well-being. Captured from a low angle to project height and stature, the portrait utilizes the model’s relaxed, creative styling of the blazer to project a quiet dominance. Ultimately, this confidence is rooted in a nurturing power, highlighting the profound authority that comes from knowing how to care for and appreciate nature. I
‘Flower Crown’ from Rooted in Her. Featuring a model in a green blazer and an intricate flower headpiece, this image expands on the themes of elegance and confidence born from a connection with the earth. It illustrates how women derive strength and authority from the communal support of gardeners, a network that directly elevates their well-being. Captured from a low angle to project height and stature, the portrait utilizes the model’s relaxed, creative styling of the blazer to project a quiet dominance. Ultimately, this confidence is rooted in a nurturing power, highlighting the profound authority that comes from knowing how to care for and appreciate nature. Image: Mercedes Diaz Barreiro Aldana

What are your hopes for your photography career in the future?

I am an aspiring Lighting Assistant in London looking to expand my experience across commercial and freelance projects. I aim to collaborate with diverse creatives, exchange innovative ideas, and contribute to the photographic sector while mastering advanced lighting techniques. My long-term goal is to launch a sustainable, culture-driven freelance business, with a focus on supporting environmentally conscious organizations like National Geographic and exhibiting my work in galleries.

Do you have a dream assignment?

A dream assignment would be photographing stills for an environmental and cultural documentary film. To create a fine art production based on their theme to support their marketing in markets such as museums and educational settlements to expand their audience. As a lifelong admirer of educational cinema, inspired by impactful works like National Geographic’s The Secret of Bees and John Chester’s The Biggest Little Farm, I want to translate these vital stories into powerful key art. For me, the ultimate assignment is crafting the definitive billboard, book cover, or key image that brings an environmental narrative to the global stage.

Instagram: @merdiazphoto

'La Catrina' from Soul of Mexico. More than just a representation of death, "La Catrina" serves as a profound connection to Mexican roots and a vibrant celebration of life. This portrait captures the spirited femininity of the Day of the Dead through intricate makeup, handmade paper flowers and jewellery. The two-piece embroidered set from Puebla was sourced from a local Mexican market to support the women artisans who keep traditional folklore and craftsmanship alive. This is further inspired by two icons I've always admired: the enduring passion of Frida Kahlo symbolised by the deep blue dress colour, and a childhood fascination with traditional "Michoacán" dolls represented through the ribbon headpiece. By drawing on these influences, the piece honours the spirit of the Day of the Dead, a celebration that empowers girlhood and pays tribute to the legacy of female artists
‘La Catrina’ from Soul of Mexico. More than just a representation of death, “La Catrina” serves as a profound connection to Mexican roots and a vibrant celebration of life. This portrait captures the spirited femininity of the Day of the Dead through intricate makeup, handmade paper flowers and jewellery. The two-piece embroidered set from Puebla was sourced from a local Mexican market to support the women artisans who keep traditional folklore and craftsmanship alive. This is further inspired by two icons I’ve always admired: the enduring passion of Frida Kahlo symbolised by the deep blue dress colour, and a childhood fascination with traditional “Michoacán” dolls represented through the ribbon headpiece. By drawing on these influences, the piece honours the spirit of the Day of the Dead, a celebration that empowers girlhood and pays tribute to the legacy of female artists. Image: Mercedes Diaz Barreiro Aldana
'Máscaras de Coco' from Soul of Mexico. Coconut masks are a striking tribute to the creative resilience of Guerrero, Mexico. Carved from the moldable shell of a coconut, these iconic artefacts bridge the gap between ancient indigenous ritual and modern folk artistry. Bought in “La Ciudadela,” one of the biggest markets in Mexico City, the models wear the masks with confidence while standing with a striking pose creating a pattern through their arms and legs assimilating to dance positions from Mesoamerican rituals. They offer a window into a world where every object has a soul and every face tells a story.
‘Máscaras de Coco’ from Soul of Mexico. Coconut masks are a striking tribute to the creative resilience of Guerrero, Mexico. Carved from the moldable shell of a coconut, these iconic artefacts bridge the gap between ancient indigenous ritual and modern folk artistry. Bought in “La Ciudadela,” one of the biggest markets in Mexico City, the models wear the masks with confidence while standing with a striking pose creating a pattern through their arms and legs assimilating to dance positions from Mesoamerican rituals. They offer a window into a world where every object has a soul and every face tells a story. Image: Mercedes Diaz Barreiro Aldana
Capturing a heroic view of an icon, this photograph presents a Mexican wrestler reimagined as a sharp, elegant businessman. This represents all the hard work behind the theatrical sport which many enjoy, holding tradition and originality. Framed by stage curtains, the portrait highlights the rich comedy and dramatic artistry behind "lucha libre."
‘El Luchador’ from Soul of Mexico. Capturing a heroic view of an icon, this photograph presents a Mexican wrestler reimagined as a sharp, elegant businessman. This represents all the hard work behind the theatrical sport which many enjoy, holding tradition and originality. Framed by stage curtains, the portrait highlights the rich comedy and dramatic artistry behind “lucha libre.” Image: Mercedes Diaz Barreiro Aldana
This photo speaks for my favourite Mexican objects that create a connection between the physical and the spiritual world. The presence of the paper marigolds and "milagrito" hearts made with recycled cans transforms this space into a living altar, grounding the room in a deep, ancient sense of peace. While the marigolds are a symbol for Day of the Dead which create a magical path to the spiritual world, the colourful hearts represent a state of being grateful and safe. They convey a sense of tranquillity and highlight the cultural meaning embedded in handcrafted artistry.
‘Milagritos’ from Soul of Mexico. This photo speaks for my favourite Mexican objects that create a connection between the physical and the spiritual world. The presence of the paper marigolds and “milagrito” hearts made with recycled cans transforms this space into a living altar, grounding the room in a deep, ancient sense of peace. While the marigolds are a symbol for Day of the Dead which create a magical path to the spiritual world, the colourful hearts represent a state of being grateful and safe. They convey a sense of tranquillity and highlight the cultural meaning embedded in handcrafted artistry. Image: Mercedes Diaz Barreiro Aldana
'Lysimachia Clethroides' from Rooted In Her. Three gooseneck loosestrife stand next to each other exposing their beautiful curved shape with a pure elegant sense of aliveness. The colour palette of this photograph grounds us in the very soil where these flowers bloom and where the relationship with gardening begins. These tones hold deep symbolic weight, tying the visual colors of the project back to the earth itself and honoring the raw, natural beauty that grows from within.
‘Lysimachia Clethroides’ from Rooted In Her. Three gooseneck loosestrife stand next to each other exposing their beautiful curved shape with a pure elegant sense of aliveness. The colour palette of this photograph grounds us in the very soil where these flowers bloom and where the relationship with gardening begins. These tones hold deep symbolic weight, tying the visual colors of the project back to the earth itself and honoring the raw, natural beauty that grows from within. Image: Mercedes Diaz Barreiro Aldana
'Where I Grow' from Rooted In Her. Standing on the fields of her childhood home, Claire smiles, deeply grounded and nurtured by the earth. The lush greenery and textured landscape offer a visual sanctuary, echoing her inner peace. Here, Claire shares her journey of connecting with flowers through the lens of womanhood. For her, this field did not just occupy space, it actively opened the threshold into motherhood and a profound era of personal development.
‘Where I Grow’ from Rooted In Her. Standing on the fields of her childhood home, Claire smiles, deeply grounded and nurtured by the earth. The lush greenery and textured landscape offer a visual sanctuary, echoing her inner peace. Here, Claire shares her journey of connecting with flowers through the lens of womanhood. For her, this field did not just occupy space, it actively opened the threshold into motherhood and a profound era of personal development. Image: Mercedes Diaz Barreiro Aldana

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.

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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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