Featured Creative: Christian Cayetano

Christian Cayetano is a senior at Mitty who developed a passion for photography after his father had introduced it to him. Along with the photography section of the newspaper, Christian is also a part of Robotics. He also participates in the Filipino Student Union’s cultural dance activities. 
Abbie Hsu ’29 and Ananya Shah ’29
October 15, 2025
Featured Creative: Christian Cayetano
Christian Cayetano ’26

How did you get into photography/how long have you been doing this?

I have been photographing since freshman year. It all started when my dad, also a photographer, let me borrow his camera. He wanted to share his hobby with me. When we went on trips to LA, Disneyland, and Hawaii he would start photographing our vacation and experiences, which was the start of my interest in photography.

Pearl River/Chelsea Market Cafeteria: “Bathed in the warm glow radiating through the nearby store’s massive windows, this lively cafeteria in Chelsea Market exudes a comforting atmosphere with red decor, filled tables, and shoppers’ silhouettes.”
Friends Across a Subway: “Under New York City, I captured two enthusiastic subway-goers surrounded by concrete beams, bustling commutes, a green ambiance.”

 Is there a particular technique you enjoy using to take photos?

Definitely the rule of thirds, which is a fundamental rule of photography where the image is divided into 9 equal parts by 2 horizontal lines and 2 vertical lines. Also, whenever composing a shot, I always like to have a centered subject like an interesting car or person that I focus on.

 

Do you have a favorite location or thing you like to shoot? 

I like to shoot street and city life, interesting objects, and peoples’ everyday lives. I went to New York during spring break and photographed the entire time with just my phone. Some other cities I like to capture are Paris and London. I also like photographing my own city, downtown Campbell. Landscapes are also one of my favorites, especially during golden hour, when shadows are long and the sun is glowing on the ground.

What’s your goal with photography? Where do you want to take this hobby? 

Mainly focusing on just telling stories and showing the mundane lives of people.

If we want to see more of your work, where can we go to do so? 

Here is my Flickr page: https://www.flickr.com/photos/203026756@N08/ 

Red Ramen Shop: “Captured in New York City’s Chelsea Market, bold, red and green neon lights illuminate a secluded ramen joint, underscoring the eerie and dramatic vibe of an otherwise tucked-away urban corner. Bouncing off the white walls, the red rays reveal chatting customers and eccentric decor. This was one of my favorite finds in America’s most diverse city.”

What is a memorable experience or insight you gained from photographing?

Recently in New York, getting to use my dads film camera showed me how to use shots wisely and meaningfully because film cameras have limited film. Before I just used a digital camera and was able to take as many shots as I wanted, but I felt more connected with my pictures using film. I felt some nostalgia as I was able to experience how my dad photographed when he was younger.

Christian Cayetano ’26

Do you have a favorite color scheme or season that you like photographing?

Spring and summer mainly because the sun is out and it’s not too foggy or sunny. The pictures look more colorized in these seasons. 

Do you have any advice for aspiring photographers?

Always have a camera on you. Don’t overlook basic things – the tree outside of your house, your favorite street, your mom or dad’s car.

Everything is interesting if you seek value from it. 

 

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