Meet Paola Boyance

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

Hi Paola, what habits do you feel helped you succeed?
One habit that I believe has greatly contributed to my success is allowing myself to play, constantly. Whenever I take photos, I feel like a child again, giving myself the freedom to explore and enjoy the process. Photography has become a game for me, where I’m in constant touch with my inner child, a space where I can experiment and have fun naturally. It’s a place where perspective is everything, and I get excited just because I have the chance to witness human connection or a flower in full bloom. Being in the moment with my thoughts and curiosities, I see them as opportunities rather than threats. By surrendering to the present, I only need to document what is already there, finding beauty in everything before me. I’ve made it a habit to see the wonder and potential in the world around me, embracing reality instead of fighting against it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What distinguishes my work from others is my ability to see and magnify the beauty in small moments. I take pride in my authenticity and unwavering commitment to being true to myself. Recently, I’ve been particularly excited about a collaborative exhibition I did in Mexico with an organization called AMANC, which supports children with cancer. This project has opened up new worlds for me and reignited my creative spark, especially since I had felt somewhat blocked in expressing my creativity through my work.

I’ve learned that being an artist, or generally following your dreams, means wearing your heart on your sleeve, and that comes with a price. Sometimes it’s easily paid, and other times it feels like living this way indebts you. It’s neither good nor bad because I’ve learned not to fight with reality but to use it to my advantage and find the best way to live with my abilities.

Something I want people to learn from my brand and my story is the importance of being authentic. Even though it’s difficult in this world, it’s crucial to understand that there’s no point in comparing ourselves to others, as every story is unique and everyone has a different definition of success. There is always space for everyone.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d make sure they had the best time ever. Without a doubt, our first stop would be McNally Jackson bookstore in the Seaport. There’s a piece of me in that place; I go there every week without fail, whether it’s to edit, read, or just unwind with my friends or, of course, with my best friend and business partner Ana Leal Photography. Next, I would take them to From Lucie’s, the most beautiful bakeshop. After that, we’ll take a photo at the photobooth at the new spot, Old Friends Photobooth on Orchard St in the Lower East Side. Then, we’d head over to the magical Elizabeth Street Garden to enjoy our slice of cake from Lucie’s.
In the evenings, we’d savor a meal at Kiki’s, a charming Greek taverna on the Lower East Side. Afterward, we’d make our way to one of my favorite bars, either Bar Belly or Caffe Select, for some drinks and a great atmosphere. It’s the perfect mix of culture, relaxation, and delicious treats.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
One thing that deeply influences my work is nostalgia and the precious weight of a memory. Life has taught me the significance of loss and how, when everything changes, we always have an intact moment or memory captured in a photo. This, to me, is invaluable. It’s an understatement to say that I wouldn’t be who I am or have reached the heights I have without the love of my family—my mom, who means the world to me, my sisters, my grandmother, and of course, my best friends. They’ve always lent me their eyes when I couldn’t see my work with love, as I am very hard on myself. Additionally, studying at the International Center of Photography (ICP) in New York changed my life. Good teachers open up a thousand worlds, and this was true for me. I had the opportunity to learn from teachers who significantly influenced my journey and formed precious friendships with people like María Prieto and Pablo Arguelles, whom I deeply care for and admire.

Website: https://www.paolabphoto.com/

Instagram: @paolab.photo @ap__weddings