Continuing my hobby as a photographer in Buenos Aires has taken shape in different ways than I originally expected. Where in the States, I typically shoot digitally. The only digital photos I’ve taken have been for my CEA CAPA Content Creator program. Outside of these blogs, the majority of my photos have been taken on my iPhone and on my film cameras. This has been an incredible way to get out of my comfort zone and make the process a lot more interesting. One of my favorite elements of film photography in Buenos Aires has been finding a new lab to get my film developed at––my favorite is called Tokyo Film Lab.  

Carlos, Naomi, and I after my first creative portrait shoot since arriving in Buenos Aires.  

Jonas and Cole warm up to play soccer. 

In Buenos Aires, there are so many opportunities to continue and begin hobbies. One of my good friends here from Norway has been frequenting local yarn stores and has been making a large amount of the clothing that she wears here. Due to the amount of public green spaces, a variety of sports and outdoor activities are super common, despite being in an urban metropolis. 

Jonas on the soccer field. 

Jonas, Lauti, Jacob, Ryder, and Cole juggle to warm up. 

On the field. 

Of course, residing in Argentina means that fútbol becomes everyone's hobby. Some of my close friends from my program managed to meet a group of local guys who rent a field for an hour together every Tuesday night. Yes, this tradition is partially for physical fitness and a love of the game, but everyone within the group has found a greater sense of community and belonging that has kept them coming back.  

Naomi poses for my creative portrait challenge. 

Fuji 200 film of a Bondi near the capitol. 

Some of the photos included in this blog are of my friends and I playing a late-night slot in the same fields that the guys play in. Despite it being late on a Wednesday, every single field was full, and everyone was laughing together.  

Carlos and Naomi experiment with movement for my portraits. 

Naomi and Carlos modeling. 

 
 
One unique element about hobbies and pastimes here is that they are often best enjoyed together. Though my photography can easily become a one-off shoot and some silent editing in my room, my first creative portrait shoot involved my two models, two friends I made who helped with styling, and my roommates who sat with me and encouraged me through the editing process. In short, bring your hobbies abroad. You will have time for them, and you will surely end up wanting to share them with the people you come to love. If you’re as lucky as I have been, they will be eager to take part in the things you love.