Anatomy of a Vision

How Franchely Figueroa frames the psyche, and leaves the ego at the door.

In a visual landscape increasingly governed by algorithmic impulse and ephemeral clicks, Franchely Figueroa offers something startlingly human, images that don’t just capture subjects, but transcribe their essence like a living syntax. Her photographs function less like static compositions and more like biopsies of the soul, layered with narrative DNA and refracted through a clinical, almost surgical, precision of intention. A former journalism student turned visual storyteller, Figueroa approaches her work with the sensitivity of a diagnostician and the elegance of a seasoned grammarian, mapping the unseen tissues of personality and presence with light, lens, and instinct.

N.1

What originally drew you to photography, not just as a hobby, but as a serious career path?

While studying journalism at university, I began taking photography classes. During those classes, I felt inspired by the communicative power that photography had to make an impact on society, and from that moment on, I decided that would be my career.

N.2

Do you remember the first image you ever captured that made you think, “This is what I was born to do”?

Franchely: I remember the first photo I took was of a friend while we were walking through Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. It was a spontaneous photo, but you could see my friend's personality reflected in the photo. From that moment until today, I haven't stopped taking photos.

N.3

How would you describe your creative process from concept to final image? Are you more instinctive or methodical when you shoot?

My creative process is a combination of methodical and instinctive. I always create a brief for each concept I want to create, but on the day of the photoshoot, I like the subject to feel free to express their personality and emotions, and to harmonize with everything around them.

N.4

There’s an unmistakable signature in your work, can you tell us a little about where you started and how you developed your own signature style?

Developing my photographic style involved disconnecting from everything on the internet. From the moment I picked up a camera, I wanted to create a style that people could identify as mine just by looking at the photo. During that process, I had to experiment a lot with lighting, wardrobe styling, and post-processing.

N.5

You’ve photographed people, places, and moments that feel timeless. What do you find inspires you most?

I've always believed that photography is a whole. Having said that, what inspires me most in every photographic work I do is being able to establish a connection with the subject and how the subject can express themselves without limitations. All the elements in a photo are important to tell a story, and it's important to me that the final photo reflects that balance.

N.6

Who are some artists, inside or outside of photography, that have influenced the way you approach your craft?

Diane Arbus has undoubtedly been one of the people who has most influenced my work over the years. Her natural way of capturing people and opening the door to diversity through her work has inspired me.

N.7

In a world overflowing with images, how do you keep your vision clear and your creative compass steady?

Being open to growth and continuing to learn new things that I can apply to my photography has kept me focused on maintaining a clear vision. Throughout my years of photography, I've tried to get to know myself, and that's the most important thing to keep my creative vision alive. This way, you gain individuality while continuing to evolve.

N.8

What role does collaboration play in your work? How do you approach working with stylists, models, or creative directors?

Franchely: Beyond collaborating with stylists, models, and creative directors, I always like to introspect and ask myself what I can offer these people as a photographer that can positively impact their work. Collaborating goes beyond the final photo; for me, collaborating is about building connections, providing support, and motivating people when they need it most. Anyone can showcase a portfolio full of beautiful photos, but for me, collaboration is about creating connections that last forever.

N.9

Social media has changed the photography landscape in such a variety of ways. How do you navigate visibility and authenticity in such a fast-moving space?

Franchely: Social media is a powerful marketing tool today. That said, many people lose their authenticity by maintaining an algorithm and following social media trends. One of the things that has helped me maintain my authenticity without losing visibility is disconnection. I avoid being inspired by things I see on social media. I avoid creating work to post on social media daily. I focus on the quality of the work, not the quantity, so I can stay true to my creative vision without battling the social media algorithm daily.

N.10

If you could photograph any figure, past or present, who would it be, and what would you hope to capture in that frame?

If I had the opportunity to photograph an important figure in our society, I would definitely want to have Ali Abu Awwad in front of my lens. His message of peace is transcendental, and that's what I would like to capture in that photo.

N.11

What’s a moment in your career, big or quiet, that has stayed with you and continues to shape your artistic path?

Everything I've experienced throughout my life has shaped my artistic path. However, every time I see how a photograph brings a smile to people's faces, how it can change their lives and inspire them to move forward and love themselves, it motivates me to continue in this career.

N.12

What do you hope people feel, or perhaps remember, when they experience your photographs, not just see them, but really experience them?

I want people to remember how valuable they are when they experience my photos, to remember that we are all important, to remember that there is a power in authenticity that has no expiration date, and above all, to remember not to be afraid to show themselves as they are in front of society.

N.13

What’s next for you creatively, are there new projects, styles, or directions you're excited to explore?

I’m currently working on various projects involving photography and fashion design. Starting in 2022, I've been working on my own fashion designs, and I hope to share them soon.

N.14

What do you think is the most valuable habit or mindset an aspiring photographer should develop early in their journey?

I believe that any photographer beginning their journey in this career must be open to constant learning. To grow in this field, you must be open to learning new skills and how to apply them to photography.

N.15

In an industry that can feel oversaturated, how can new photographers stand out without losing sight of who they are creatively?

Authenticity and the stories you tell through your photos are the most important things that will make you stand out in an oversaturated industry.

For more, follow Wardrobe Stylist, Creative Director, and Photographer Franchely Figueroa @franchely_photographer, & Model Courtney Cowan @courtneycoward_