My background in photography was originally shooting B&W with a 2 ¼ Roliflex. Black and white photography gives me the opportunity to focus on the light, the textures, the shapes, and the shadows without the distraction of color. I wanted to capture everyday Cuba, mostly street life: their struggles and persistence amid a city of opposites: grand palaces next to crumbling dwellings, music, and dance contrasted against the lack of the most basic necessities such as food and medicine. Friendliness abounded. I felt safe everywhere, even at night, on the streets of this once-great city of Havana.