about

"Photography became Carlos' intimate language, a way to express the depths of his emotions and his unique perspective on the world."

the story

He's Carlos José Leal Arias.

Carlos, born on February 2nd, 1953, is a Sanitary Engineer who graduated in the USSR. He was born in the city of San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic, a place renowned for its beautiful sunsets. He currently resides in the vibrant city of Santo Domingo, where he embraces his diverse background and blends the rich cultural influences of both his Dominican and Portuguese roots.

From a tender age, Carlos has been a passionate lover of photography, capturing the world around him through his unique lens. At the age of 13, he would eagerly chase after breathtaking sunsets, armed with a rudimentary camera, capturing the splendor of the Higuamo River’s mouth—an awe-inspiring landscape that rightfully bestowed San Pedro with its well-deserved reputation.

Though he embarked on a professional journey as a Sanitary Engineer, his artistic soul found solace in the captivating art form of photography. His quest for knowledge led him to undertake basic photography courses at the Altos de Chavón School and the Museum of Modern Art, while his true education as a photographer stemmed from his relentless self-study and unwavering dedication to his craft.

Carlos’ insatiable thirst for exploration fuels his love for travel photography, as he traverses the globe, capturing breathtaking moments that embody the essence of each destination. His portfolio is a reflection of his versatility and a keen eye for detail, transcending genres to capture beauty in its many forms.

In recent years, Carlos has not only continued to expand his photographic horizons but also achieved remarkable success in international photography contests. His talent and artistic vision have garnered him acclaim and numerous accolades, adding to his already impressive list of accomplishments. Notably, he secured first place in the Punta Cana Carnival 2016 photography contest, received an honorable mention from the National Botanical Garden of Santo Domingo, and emerged victorious in the prestigious photography contest held by Juandoliando Magazine.

Through this portfolio, he invites you to embark on a visual journey, capturing the essence of captivating moments frozen in time.

See portfolio