The Plaza del Mercado de Río Piedras is one of the oldest fresh produce and country markets in Puerto Rico. In this market you can find all the products that are needed for the typical Puerto Rican food. In it there is also a good number of town characters, people with whom to talk is extremely easy and pleasant.

The Plaza is a place of cultural and economic contrast. In it you find poor and rich (although few), Puerto Ricans, Dominicans and Cubans, colorful and happy scenes, and other depressive ones. All of these factors make for a good workshop for the diligent and observant photographer.

To take photography in this place, a small camera is recommended, which does not arouse interest or fear, especially in a community that could contain illegal immigrants. A lens with a range from 24mm (full frame) is also preferable since the aisles are narrow and the photographic action occurs very close to the lens.

I always go with my wife, she buys groceries while I take photos of subjects who don’t mind me doing it because they understand that I’m just another client and not an indiscreet photographer.

The Plaza is not a place to go just once to take photos, the people who visit it make it an endless source of photographic opportunities. Below I share photos of several of my outings to this picturesque place.