Hey y'all, Iā€™m Em!

I am a proud first-generation graduate from San Francisco State University and a photojournalist at The Kansas City Star passionate about visual storytelling.

Growing up, I learned the value of hard work and determination from my parents, who instilled in me a strong work ethic and a drive to succeed.

As a proud Latina, I believe that my cultural background helps me thrive in my field. I'm able to bring a unique perspective to my work and I'm passionate about representing my culture in a positive light.

When I'm not capturing the essence of society through my lens, I'm a taco enthusiast, baseball lover, a mother to several house plants and an orange tabby named Penny. I also love connecting with people like my former neighbor Lois, who's never told me her exact age but is a wealth of knowledge and great company.

My passion for journalism has led to my work being published in reputable publications such as The Seattle Times, The San Francisco Chronicle, The Washington Post and the Associated Press. With a keen eye for detail, I use my photography to shine a light on the realities of everyday life in our communities.

As a young Latina, I strive to be a positive influence and role model. I hope to encourage and motivate others like me to pursue their dreams fearlessly. My ultimate goal is to make a meaningful impact in the field of journalism by uncovering and sharing the unvarnished stories that make up our society.