We had the good fortune of connecting with Mercedes Armella and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mercedes, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
Growing up in Mexico, I was immersed in a world of vibrant colors, intricate designs and a very rich culture.
Surrounded by art lovers, my passion for visual storytelling ignited early on.

As a kid, I was captivated by my grandfather’s old darkroom where my fascination with photography took root. The magic of watching images materialize from negatives sparked my imagination and fueled my desire to capture moments frozen in time.

Photography became more than a hobby; it became my way of translating emotions, experiences and the beauty of everyday moments into visual narratives. My journey as a photographer began in those early days, guided by the vibrant artistic spirit of Mexico and my family’s passion for art.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
In a world flooded with content, staying true to my artistic vision has been my greatest challenge. I strive to capture what deeply resonates with me, resisting the temptation to be swayed by external trends or influences.

Authenticity is the core value in my work. Whether it’s capturing genuine emotions or real moments, I take pride in depicting life as beautifully chaotic as it truly is. I aim for authenticity in every image I create, always seeking to capture the beauty that often goes unnoticed before us.

Like in every artistic journey, I experience moments of deep doubt, questioning the impact of my work, if any.
Today, I feel more confident about the value of my work and I can see a clear path forward.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Bookstores, museums, and wine bars always top my list when exploring new places or hosting visitors. Living in a dynamic city rich with history and hidden treasures is so fun.

Breakfast or brunch holds a special place in my heart, so anyone visiting me must indulge in a few of these. Afterwards, we can stroll along my favorite streets and stores.

I love playing tourist in my own city, especially when friends are visiting—it’s the perfect opportunity to discover new sights and try new restaurants.

After a satisfying walk, nothing beats unwinding with a glass (or two) of wine.

I firmly believe that quality time with friends is invaluable, and exploring the city together to find new favorite spots is always a joy.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
w, provided we remain receptive.
Recognizing those who shape our journey is crucial, regardless of its direction. In my case, I owe immense gratitude to my parents. They not only shared with their love for art early on but also gifted me my first camera, opening the door to the magical world of photography.

Becoming a mother marked a significant shift in my artistic path. It inspired me to embark on a long-term project: capturing my children’s childhood. I aim for these photographs to serve as a window into their past, offering them a glimpse into their origins when they grow older. In this way, my two children have become my greatest mentors.

Instagram: @mercedes_armella_photo

Image Credits
All images are mine.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.