Hi, I'm Shelley. Photographer. Videographer. Joycatcher.
Growing up in The Bronx as a first generation American meant that I met most of my Dominican family through photographs. Despite the distance, photos let us celebrate, remember, and stay close to our roots. That's how I learned how much joy a single image can hold.
Today, I bring that same warmth and connection to every session. My mission is to help you create images that feel true to your story.
If you want photos that feel like you, I'd love to work with you.
Listen to Shelley's guiding principles as a photographer and activist.
Behind the Lens
a documentary about my documentary
Vimukthi Mawilmada made a documentary about my process as videographer!
"This film follows the incredible journey of photographer Shelley Polanco as she transitions from photography to videography. Witness her creative process and passion as she creates her first film, capturing the vibrant and diverse Latinx population at Brandeis University."
Latest Exhibition
"La Fuerza de Brandeis" at Brandeis Library
Shelley Polanco was the recipient of the 2023 Brandeis LACLS REM Grant. With this, she photographed 47 Latinx people at Brandeis to expand the campus' understanding of Latinx identity.
The first exhibition was open to the public for over a month, with an opening reception with over 100 people.
Now, it is on permanent display on the first floor of the Brandeis Library.
Press
The Justice newspaper published April 2, 2024.
Library news website feature published March 18, 2024.