Member Spotlight: Margo Ramirez
Introduce yourself (ideas include where you were born, where you reside, how you got your start in photography, what you typically shoot, etc.)
My name is Margo Ramirez and I am a NJ/NY tristate area photographer. Photography is not just a hobby or a job for me it’s a way of expressing myself and capturing the world around me. Through the lens of my camera, I am able to narrate stories, convey emotions and document moments that might otherwise be forgotten. Photography has the power to freeze time, evoke memories and provoke thought. One of the aspects I find most intriguing is how a photograph can speak to people from all walks of life, it transcends language barriers and can ignite a thought-provoking conversation. This universal quality of photography is what makes it such a powerful tool that inspires everyone to whip out their phone and tell their stories.
As a street and documentary photographer I am drawn to capturing raw authentic moments that reflect the diversity and complexity of the human experience. I believe every person has a story to tell, and its my job as a photographer to give a voice to those stories. Whether it’s a candid street scene, a portrait of a stranger, or a documentary project that sheds light to a social issue, I strive to capture the essence of humanity in all its forms.
I started taking pictures at a young age as a means to escape my awkwardness and shyness as a kid. As the youngest daughter to immigrant parents with very little resources I took advantage of a free elective class in high school and with my borrowed Minolta camera I discovered I had the ability of making time stand still. Through the years photography has allowed me to find clarity, focus, and meaning in a form of meditation, a way of grounding myself in the present moment and a means of connecting with others in a profound and meaningful way. Through the lens I hope to continue telling stories, sparking conversations and inspiring others to see the beauty in the complexity of the world.
Tell us how you discovered CMC, and why do you like being a member of the collective
CMC is my version of The Photo League in 2024 and I am so glad I stumbled upon the Camera of the Month Club. It has truly been a game changer for me in terms of my photographic journey. As a photographer, it is important to be able to connect with like minded individuals who share the same passion for photography and are willing to support and inspire each other. Meeting other photographers through lectures, workshops and gallery openings is a fantastic way to learn and grow but having a close-knit community to regularly collaborate with is invaluable.
Through my short experience with CMC, I have found a sense of belonging and camaraderie that I have searched for. The members of CMC are not only talented photographers but also incredibly supportive and encouraging. They are always willing to provide feedback, share and explore new ideas and techniques. Being surrounded by such positivity and creative environment has motivated me to challenge myself and take my photography into a more creative space. In addition to the practical benefits of being in the club, they are now giving me the opportunity to submit my work for an upcoming group exhibit.
You have a passion for documentary photography. Why, and how did that start?
Originally my photography was scattered and lacked focus. From stealing images and creeping around, to the all so hated selfies, I went though it all, and in my journey, I found one thing to be a constant and that was, that I knew that regardless of which would be my genre I knew I needed to hold a camera. My focus was not clear however it was a transformative experience with well known photographer Joseph Rodriguez that I realized the power of getting close and storytelling.
Seeing Joe’s impactful series on the gangs of LA sparked a deep sense of purpose within me. I understood that photography could be a tool for shedding light on social issues and creating meaningful narratives that can engage the viewer on a deeper level. I was drawn to the idea of immersing myself in a subject and his/hers’s environment. I began to research this medium and came across Life Magazine and it served as a source of inspiration, showcasing the immense power of a few images and captions in telling a compelling narrative. Through my involvement with Social Documentary Network and Zeke Magazine I found a community of individuals who share in my passion for social commentaries and advocacy. This platform has allowed me to showcase my work and connect my work with others interested in learning more.
Engaging with my subjects at a personal level, earning their trust, researching the situation and sharing the story is what fuels me to linger with a project until I feel I have a start, middle and an ending that may inspire hope.
What do you think makes a good photograph?
Beyond technical proficiency or aesthetic appeal, images that provoke thought, evoke emotion, and invite curiosity have a lasting impact on viewers. Photography has the unique ability to transport us to different times and spaces, to elicit wonder and stir our imaginations. It's in those moments of pause, when we're compelled to linger and contemplate, that the true power of photography reveals itself.
The beauty of photography lies not just in its ability to capture visually pleasing scenes, but also in its capacity to connect with us on a deeper, more profound level. Images that speak to our hearts, that make us question, reflect, and feel, have a timeless quality that transcends the medium itself.
Share 3-5 images of your most recent project or photo series. Tell us a little bit about the project or photos.
“Battling Beautifully and Boldly" is a documentary photo series that explores the deeply personal and transformative relationship between women, beauty rituals, and resilience in the face of adversity, particularly for those fighting cancer.
This series shines a light on the profound significance of seemingly mundane rituals like applying makeup, styling wigs, and maintaining nails. For many women, these rituals are not just about vanity or conforming to societal standards of beauty; they're acts of self-care, empowerment, and reclaiming a sense of agency in the midst of challenging circumstances.
For cancer patients undergoing treatment, these rituals take on an even deeper meaning. In the face of physical and emotional turmoil, they become symbols of strength, courage, and identity. Rather than mere adornments, makeup, wigs, and manicures become essential tools of resilience, helping patients maintain a sense of normalcy and dignity amidst the chaos of illness.
By documenting these moments of empowerment and self-expression, "Battling Beautifully and Boldly" celebrates the resilience and inner beauty of these women. It reminds us that beauty is not just skin-deep; it's a reflection of the strength, grace, and spirit that shine brightest in the darkest of times.