Sponsored Content by Angel Colmenares

In the last couple of years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and photographing remarkable individuals on this island. Every one of us is a creator in our own unique ways, each one finding ways to express, to connect and to share their light. This photography exhibition, ‘The Light Between Us,’ celebrates these moments of connection and expression, capturing the essence of what makes each person uniquely inspiring.”

There was no plan in who would be in the show, I think that for me the most important part was to have that connection, to learn from them, what inspired them, what motivated them, and to try and capture that energy that radiates from us humans. The most amazing thing is that most people are doing incredible things on a daily basis, most of us have no clue unless you take time to meet and talk to them. So in this exhibition you’ll find artists, musicians, pilots, dancers, editors, writers, and business owners.

When I started this project, I didn’t know exactly what it would become. I just knew I wanted to connect—with the people who live here, with their stories, their work, their creativity. I was drawn to those who spend their days making things, shaping the world around them, and giving their time to this island community.

At first, I photographed people in their workspaces—painters, musicians, teachers, farmers. But as time passed, something deeper started to come through. The project shifted. It became less about documenting what people do, and more about being present with who they are.

Each portrait became a quiet exchange—not of anything material, but of energy. A moment of stillness between the person and the camera. A space where something unspoken could pass between us.

These images aren’t about how people see themselves, or even how I see them. They’re about what felt true in that moment. A shared presence. A small opening. The light between us.

For me it is a celebration of that creative spirit, you don’t have to be a painter, or musician to be creative, we are creative in our everyday life, we are creating our reality. A love letter to a community of makers, and ongoing portrait series that I hope to use as a way to connect and to share the light between us.

The Light Between Us show can be seen at Angel Colmenares Photography (formerly Studio 50) at 50 First Street, Friday Harbor, from August 1 to October 31. For more information visit his Instagram @lightofdayfilms