In Conversation with Paul Baldonado

For many photographers, the camera is more than a tool—it’s a bridge. It connects us to the places, people, and histories that shape who we are. For New York–based photographer Paul Baldonado, that bridge recently led him across the world to the Philippines, where he set out to reconnect with his family’s roots while documenting the experience through his lens.

In this conversation, Paul shares what it meant to finally make the trip he had been planning for years, how local photo communities shaped his journey, and why the work he created there continues to influence the way he sees and shoots today.

What inspired you to take a trip to the Philippines at this time in your life?

This trip had been in the works for years. I kept dreaming about it, planning it, watching it fall through, and trying again. Finally, everything lined up, and I was able to make it happen.

I think a lot of first and second generation Americans, children of immigrants, feel that same pull to go back to their homeland and reconnect with their roots through photography.

How did you prepare for the visit—did you focus on any particular region, community, or theme?

I went during Holy Week, so I knew there’d be a lot happening around ceremonies and events. Beyond that, I linked up with local photographers and photo communities, and they really shaped the way I experienced and moved through the trip. (s/o to Kio, Nico, Bry, Kebs, Andrew, Chavo, & the Sunny16 team) 

Did you approach subjects differently there—people, landscapes, or cultural rituals—compared to how you shoot in New York or elsewhere?

Yes and no. There were moments I felt the same flow I get in New York, but the pace, the environment, and the people made things feel completely different. The way I was photographing still very much felt like me, but not always in the traditional “street photography” sense.

Were there moments when you felt torn between capturing candid shots and respecting personal or culturally sensitive moments?

Always. Empathy typically drives how I shoot, whether I’m in New York or Manila. If something feels too sensitive, I feel like I’ve learned when to step back.

How do you see the work from this trip shaping your photography when you return home?

Honestly, the trip shook me up. It took months before I felt excited or even interested about “traditional” street photography again. The trip meant more to me than photography alone, in a way that is hard to explain. I often think about going back, I just wish it didn’t take ~30 hours to get there.

Did you encounter any unexpected surprises or turns during the journey? Were there technical challenges—like weather, remote locations, or lighting—and how did you adapt?

It was hot. Mid-April is peak summer in Manila, and every day felt like 100 degrees.

The biggest technical challenge was self-inflicted. I brought a Nikon F2 as a second camera, but I was not familiar enough with it. Instead of helping, it slowed me down. Next time, if I bring two cameras, I will make sure they are both ones I know inside out.

Travelling as a photographer can be a bit tricky. How do you choose what gear to pack? Did you experiment with new gear or techniques you hadn’t used before?

I kept it simple, brought my main kit that I use 90% of the time (Leica MP + 28mm Summicron). Most days I shot with that one camera setup. On a couple of days I brought the F2, but it taught me that experimenting on a trip like this isn’t the move (for me). Stick with what you know. I also packed close to 100 rolls of film and ended up shooting 55. I used X-ray protective bags at the airports. Those rolls went through machines six times on the roundtrip and all the negatives came out fine. No CT scanners, thankfully.

Has this journey changed how you plan future photography projects or travel experiences?

Definitely. Every time I think about a new trip, part of me just wants to book another ticket to Manila.

Do you have any plans to publish or expand this body of work? Tell us about anything you have in the works!

Not yet. I only had eight days of photography there, and I believe the best projects/books/bodies of work usually take years upon years. I’d need to go back many more times before I even consider calling it a “project.” For now, I just know it’s something I want to keep coming back to.

About Paul Baldonado

Paulie B is an NYC-based street photographer known for his candid interactions and authentic urban images that capture unique, fleeting moments, reflecting the city’s vibrant energy. Beyond his street photography, Paulie shares his expertise and passion for his vraft through his popular social media platforms.

Want more from Paulie? Check him out on Instagram and YouTube.