A tour through the bustling street markets of New York
- Text by Chris Lagares
- Photography by Chris Lagares
Rochester, New York – a small city on the shore of Lake Ontario – was my hometown of 25 years before I relocated to San Diego. In October last year, after recently quitting my job to pursue a full-time career in photography, I returned there for a short trip.
To challenge myself as a street photographer, I started a new project when I arrived called “100X100.” The idea behind it was to capture 100 portraits that document the diversity of the city.
After I told her about it, my mom thought it would be a good idea to visit the public market located in the heart of Rochester. She wanted me to shoot my uncle and aunt; who had been vendors at the market for over 20 years. Seeing as I hadn’t visited or seen them in almost a decade, I agreed.
I quickly found myself submerged in a highly multicultural environment. People from the suburbs, farms, and the city were all bustling around together, proving that our country isn’t as divided as we’re led to believe.
I eventually saw my uncle, who was selling Puerto Rico merchandise underneath his tent. Prior to that week, my family lost much of their property on the island because of Hurricane Maria. Fortunately, they were able to survive and rebuild. I witnessed many people embrace my uncle, and the proud look on his face made me realise that everything was going to be okay.
After visiting him, I learned the value of family. The trip made me realise that – regardless of your race, creed or colour – we’re all in this together. In many ways, my trip to Rochester was meant to heal my wounds: both creatively and spiritually.
Street photography is a gift, allowing others to see the world as your eyes do. Each perspective is different, but unique. Rochester is the backdrop of my success. The lessons learned during my visit helped me build the confidence to display my work around the world. Rochester isn’t the city that raised me, it’s the anchor to my journey.
See more of Chris Lagare’s work on his official website or follow him on Instagram.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
Latest on Huck
The legendary trans artist & illustrator behind Drag magazine
A new book brings together pioneer Vicky West’s luminous illustrations of fantasy, femininity and fashion.
Written by: Miss Rosen
Why did police taser a Bristol grandfather in the face?
Trailblazing documentary I Am Judah chronicles community champion Ras Judah Adunbi’s horrific treatment at the hands of the police and his fight for justice.
Written by: Maisy Hunter
In photos: Ghana’s complex e-waste industry
A new exhibition explores the country’s huge, unregulated industry, which can be hazardous to workers’ health and the local enviroment, yet provides economic opportunity to many.
Written by: Isaac Muk
Meet Corbin Shaw, Huck 81’s Artist in Residence
The Sheffield born artist talks about the people and places that shaped his practice for the latest issue of Huck.
Written by: Josh Jones
The Blessed Madonna: “Dance music flourishes in times of difficulty”
The DJ talks about her debut album ‘Godspeed’, connection and resistance on the dance floor, the US election and more alongside exclusive pictures from her album release party.
Written by: Ben Smoke
Revisiting the birth of skate culture in 1970s Los Angeles
New photobook ‘Last Days of Summer: California Skateboarding Archive 1975–1978’ looks back at an iconic chapter of youth culture.
Written by: Miss Rosen