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Cubans at City Park

Las ideas no se matan

By Mateo Toro

October 16^th, 2019

I brought back from Cuba this past June hand-rolled Cigars by Doña Clara (story coming soon on her and Finca Gerardo). My intention for these cigars weren't for them to be souvenirs or just a cool gift from Cuba. I wanted to be able to smoke each Cigar with a family member or friend to catch up and slow down in the moment.

One of these cigars had my brother's, Jonathan Tinoco, name on it the moment I bought them. It had been a while since we caught up so I hit him up for us to link and smoke one.

One of my favorite portraits I've ever taken. A true candid at that.

We got together at City Park, which is one of my favorite places to take photos at in Reading. It was the first day true fall weather had arrived and the light was absolutely gorgeous. I am always surprised how lonely City Park is compared to major parks in other cities. City Park should be full of life year round.

I have been trying harder and harder to document simple moments. It's not easy. It's a fine line between documenting or just being that person that is always taking photos. However, I asked Jonathan if he was fine with me taking pictures and he totally trusted me. I'm thankful for the trust as always.

We had an amazing conversation about the City of Reading, the future, and how important it is to just sit down and be in the moment. My brother-in-law, Anthony Orozco, happened to be cycling up the Pagoda and joined us last minute before the sun set.