Playa del Camera
Southeastern photographer David Siglin trades his digital EQUIPMENT for film on a first-time journey through Mexico’s Isla Mujeres
by david siglin
I never thought I would visit Cancún. My typical vacation vibe is an unheard-of town along the Po River in Italy or The New Inn in Waterley Bottoms (yes, it’s a real name) in Great Britain. But a warm beach in winter and grandparents offering to watch the kids at home were too good to pass up.
"The traditional front of the Chapel of Guadalupe belies the modern interior with its all-glass sanctuary wall, giving commanding views of the Caribbean Sea. Across the street, Café Mango offers one of the best breakfasts on the island."
Some locales make compelling photography easy. They are novel, uniquely beautiful, or offer a glimpse of a time long-passed. Isla Mujeres, a small island near Cancún, is none of these, and that made for a fun challenge.
Of course, the answer is to photograph the people. Isla Mujeres may be well known, but the people who live and work there aren’t. I decided to spend time wandering the island, asking to take portraits of whoever would let me.
"The dusty pink and slightly worn surfboard sign had a very Wes Anderson vibe. I was surprised by the colors of Isla Mujeres—from the vibrant buildings to the dazzling sea."
To help my odds, I brought my diminutive Olympus OM-2n film camera. I had recently bought it from a widow who was selling her late husband’s prized possession. I promised her I would give it new life—starting with these images that offer a glimpse into daily life on Isla Mujeres.
Self-portrait of the photographer
