NOEL BENITEZ Since 2021, I have been using photography as a way to explore my creativity and capture the world in a unique way. I am married and a proud mother of two wonderful daughters, and I work full-time at Philips. I began with conceptual and imaginative work, constantly seeking the boundary between reality and surrealism. Ki has been an important source of inspiration and guided me through various workshops such as faceless photography, street photography, and in-depth Photoshop sessions. Some of my favorite works emerged from the Faceless workshop and have strongly influenced my creative development. A highlight of my photographic journey was attending the Promoting Passion Conference 2024 in the United Kingdom. I attended together with other creatives, and the event was organized by Brooke Shaden. There, I met Georgia Rose Hardy, whose surreal, poetic self-portraits left a lasting impression on me. I also admire the work of Simon Lister for UNICEF and documentary photographer Marieke van der Velden. Both inspire me to capture stories that truly matter. Recently, I have focused on children’s portraits. I would like to expand this to families in which a family member is seriously or terminally ill, creating photographs that offer comfort, preserve memories, and provide emotional support. Every photograph I make is driven by emotion, human connection, and the desire to create timeless, meaningful images. I work with a Sony A7R IV and my favorite 85mm lens, perfect for intimate and lasting portraits. My motto: “Life is a celebration, but you have to hang up the decorations yourself. It’s not about what happens, but how you respond to it. Live fully, embrace every moment, and color your life the way you want.” I love collaborating, discovering new ideas, and telling stories that matter. Instagram: @noel_benitez_photography Website: www.noelbenitez.com