CubaPLUS Magazine

For young photographer Theder Castro, the art of capturing images is much more than just a job or a hobby—it is a way of life, a medium through which he expresses his deep connection to his homeland and its people.

 “Through photography, I can capture the essence of Cuba—its vibrant landscapes, its rich and diverse culture, and the everyday stories of those who live here. Every image I take is a piece of my identity and a tribute to the beauty and resilience of my country,” he shared in an exclusive interview with CubaPLUS Magazine.

 It could be said that Theder was born with a camera in hand, rather than with a loaf of bread, as the saying goes for those born lucky. His passion for photography began at a very young age.

 “I started as a child, when I happened to pick up a camera. At the time, I didn’t know much about technique or composition, but something about capturing a moment in time, a landscape, or an emotion fascinated me. I started experimenting, taking photos of everything that caught my eye, and little by little, I realized I wanted to learn more,” he recalled.

 When asked about what inspired him to fully dedicate himself to photography, Theder explained:

 “What motivated me to pursue the art of light and imagery was its ability to convey emotions, tell stories, and capture unique moments that might otherwise be lost in time. From the moment I discovered photography, I understood that I could express my vision of the world in a way that words simply couldn’t.

 “Light, colors, shadows, and compositions became my language. I was fascinated by how I could manipulate these elements to create something impactful. I love the idea that each image I capture is a part of me—a reflection of my perspective and creativity.

 That drive pushed me to keep learning, experimenting, and fully dedicating myself to this art.”

A pivotal moment in his career was meeting Leonel Gil, an experienced photographer with an extensive background in advertising photography, war photojournalism, and more. Leonel became his mentor, teaching him invaluable knowledge about the profession.

 Theder is passionate about three main areas of photography:

 • Nature Photography: “I feel deeply connected to the world when I capture landscapes, the details of flora and fauna, and those unique moments that only nature can offer. It’s my way of honoring the planet and inspiring others to protect it.”

 • Advertising Photography: “I enjoy the challenge of creating images that are not only visually striking but also communicate a clear and persuasive message. The idea that a single image can sell a product, tell a story, or evoke an emotion that leads to action excites me.”

 • Fashion Photography: “I love the fusion of creativity, style, and personal expression.

 Working with designs, colors, and textures— collaborating with models, stylists, and makeup artists—allows me to create images that convey elegance, boldness, or whatever concept we want to explore. Each session is an opportunity to innovate and tell a story through fashion.”

 Theder’s work has been exhibited in major venues, including Blue Moon, a renowned restaurant in Havana, and Casa Amarilla.

 “Both experiences were key moments in my career, and I’m grateful for the opportunities to share my art with the public,” he said.

 Despite his young but promising career, Theder has already received significant recognition.

 “In 2024, I had the honor of participating in major events like Turnat 2024, CAM 2024, and the International Tourism Fair. All the photographs showcased and used at the fair were mine, which was an incredible source of pride for me.”

 When discussing his future plans, Theder emphasized his commitment to continuous growth and establishing himself in the photography industry.

 “First, I want to keep learning from my colleagues, exchanging ideas and techniques, and drawing from their experiences. Constant learning is key to evolving in this art, and I’m always open to new perspectives and challenges.

 “My goal is to become a leading photographer in Cuba—recognized not only for my work but also for my contribution to the country’s visual culture. In short, my journey is one of continuous learning, creating, and leaving a meaningful mark on the world of Cuban photography.”