About Afonso Salcedo

Studio self-portrait of Los Angeles portrait and documentary photographer Afonso Salcedo

A Cinematic Approach to Human Stories

I’m a portrait and documentary photographer based in Los Angeles. My twenty years in feature-film lighting and compositing include work at Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios on films such as Toy Story 3, WALL-E, Encanto and Moana 2. That experience informs my attention to light, composition and the people in front of the camera.

Member of ASMP and NPPA. Based in Los Angeles and fully insured, available for assignments across California and worldwide.

My Approach

I pay close attention to light, expression and the details that give a photograph its character.

In portrait sessions, I combine carefully shaped lighting with clear direction and a relaxed atmosphere, giving people space to feel comfortable and look like themselves.

Curiosity, patient observation and respect for the people I photograph guide my documentary work. From Los Angeles to Haiti and Portugal, I’m interested in how people live, adapt and support their communities.

Working Together

Portrait and commissioned sessions begin with a conversation about the photographs you need and how you’ll use them. We can develop a mood board to establish the visual direction before the shoot.

On set, I offer clear direction and a comfortable pace, with attention to expression, posture and the details that matter.

Based in West Hollywood, I’m available for assignments across California and worldwide.