About Miguel

Born in Madrid. Years in technology and consulting — work built around people, decisions, and what holds under pressure. Photography began as a private discipline and became paid work in New York, photographing actors, professionals, and people who wanted a portrait that felt like them rather than a standard headshot.

After a period in Europe, I have returned to the New York area and to portraiture with a narrower brief: a small number of commissions, made on location, finished as artwork.

Now based in South Orange, New Jersey, working throughout Northern New Jersey and New York City — including Maplewood, Millburn, Short Hills, Summit, Montclair, and Manhattan.

Sessions happen where the story belongs: a home, an office, a field or gym. Not a generic landscape unless that place is part of the life.

I am less interested in making photographs simply because they are beautiful. I am interested in making photographs that become more important with time.

• A son before he leaves for college.
• A parent whose face you know by heart.
• A couple after thirty years together.
• A founder at the moment an idea becomes a company.
• An athlete at the end of a final season.
• A person who has changed and finally feels like themselves again.

The common thread is not age, profession or circumstance.

It is identity.

Years ago I made a quiet portrait of Kevin — a close family friend. He wasn't styled or retouched. He was simply himself, in his own hat.

After he died, his family chose that photograph for his memorial. I have a 40×30 print of it in my own home, and every time I see it, the reaction is immediate, and it is always the same.

Not a beautiful photograph of him. Not a good likeness. Just — him. That is what I want every portrait to do.

My approach is controlled and deliberate. I use light carefully, I direct when direction is useful, and I pay attention to details.

But I do not want technique to erase the person. Wrinkles, asymmetry, character, intensity, warmth and restraint often matter more than perfection.

The portrait should still feel like you.

My own standard is simple:

The work is intentionally personal and low-volume. Every commission begins with a conversation about the person, relationship or chapter that matters — and what would be worth preserving from it.