Citlali Fabián: Creating Meaningful Portraits Through Collaboration
transcript
show notes
Mexican visual artist and photographer Citlali Fabián joins Angela Nicholson to discuss how trust, patience and collaboration can transform the portrait-making process.
Citlali grew up in Oaxaca, where her father ran a photo printing shop. Watching people bring in their film and return to collect their photographs gave her an early understanding of photography as an extension of memory. Her grandmother’s careful approach to being photographed also showed her how much meaning a single image can hold for future generations.
As Citlali’s interest developed, she began exploring photography as a way to tell stories about indigenous identity, migration, family and community. Her work places the people she photographs at the centre of the creative process, giving them an active role in deciding how they are represented.
This approach is particularly important in Bilha: Stories of My Sisters, the series that earned Citlali the title of Photographer of the Year at the 2026 Sony World Photography Awards. Created with women from her region, the project celebrates people whose work supports their communities and inspires younger generations.
Citlali explains how she shared contact sheets with each participant, invited them to help select their portrait and developed the final illustrations through conversation and feedback. She also discusses the importance of honouring someone’s decision when their preferred image differs from the photographer’s choice.
During the conversation, Citlali reflects on imposter syndrome, indigenous representation and the value of seeking guidance from people you trust. She also explains why photographers should resist pressure to produce work quickly and focus instead on creating something meaningful.
It is a thoughtful conversation about portrait photography, identity and the responsibility that comes with telling someone else’s story.
Takeaways
- Build trust before reaching for the camera
Meaningful portraits often begin with conversation. Taking time to understand someone can reveal the details, places and experiences that matter most to them. - Include people in how they are represented
A photographer may prefer one image but the person in the portrait may feel differently. Collaboration can produce work that feels both visually strong and personally truthful. - Do not rush the creative process
Good work does not always arrive quickly. Allowing ideas to develop can lead to stronger images and more thoughtful decisions. - Look closely at the stories around you
Photographers often overlook familiar people, places and experiences. Personal stories can offer a distinctive perspective that nobody else can provide. - Ask trusted people for guidance
Imposter syndrome can make it difficult to recognise the value of your work. Constructive support from a teacher, mentor or fellow photographer can help you move forward. - Protect your values and wellbeing
Not every opportunity is fair or worthwhile. It is acceptable to decline work that does not respect your time, values or contribution.
