Fernanda Cortina | Photojournalist | Mexico

StorytellerMexico

17 Feb

Based in Mexico City, Fernanda Cortina is a talented photojournalist seeking to “Expand the Horizons of Earth through Photography!”

Her professional life began in 2015 after graduating from Universidad Iberoamericana with a degree in Communication Sciences and a Journalism minor. Since then, Fernanda has gained experience in events, PR, marketing, digital strategy, design, photography and digital media and has worked with companies such as Forbes México, Editorial Televisa, Harper’s Bazaar Mx and Esquire Latam.

Currently, Fernanda writes about a diversity of topics, covering everything from ecotourism, culture, nature, exploration and conservation to sustainable fashion, music with a cultural focus, veganism, and hard news.

Notable Features

Star paintings… In the lens of Sergio Montúfar
Lido Pimienta explores the textures of identity in Miss Colombia
Wheel The World, transforming the experience of traveling in an accessible world

What is a typical day like for you?

I am a journalist and photographer from Mexico City. Most of my typical day centres around writing about several subjects, and covering stories. Whenever I get the chance, I leave the city to go scuba diving, which is my biggest passion, and I am currently studying to become an underwater photographer as well as learning about marine life and conservation.

What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?

I have always been an explorer. I remember from an early age I had a big interest in dinosaurs and archaeology. My parents have always said I am an Indiana Jones type. Around 8 years old I started collecting National Geographic magazines after my grandmother gave me her collection dating back to the 1950s. Since then, I have become a professional expedition, culture and nature photographer. I discovered my love for the ocean too when I was young. Conservation of our oceans and marine life has always been close to my heart. From very early on I wanted to learn how to scuba dive and was finally able to fulfil this dream two years ago when I got certified.

What/who currently inspires you?

I am inspired by the photographers whose work revolves around important stories, whether from the ocean, the forest or even cities. I want to tell stories that have an impact.

What path did you choose after leaving school?

I studied Communications and Media Sciences at Universidad Iberoamericana, specializing in narrative journalism. During this time I also started learning photography, both digital and analogue. Now, I am web editor for three of the biggest lifestyle magazines in Mexico.

What do you value most in life?

I would have to say knowledge. My aim in life has always been to learn about other cultures, place, species...

What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?

I am worried about the impact we are having on our oceans. I dive very frequently and it is very sad to see reefs struggling to recover after they've been harmed either by us or naturally. I want to help make conscience in people of the importance of marine species in our lives.

Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking?

I watch and read A LOT of books and documentaries. Most recently, I felt deeply moved by the book 'Spillover', which explains our impact on the planet and how it has led to so many pandemics in recent years.

What legacy do you hope to leave?

I hope that through my work as a journalist I can help people think about the planet and reach out to organizations that want to make the world a better place. I want to inspire people.

Underwater Footage by Fernanda Cortina.

Fernanda is also part of Wheel The World's photography team in Mexico where she documents how they achieve accessible travel and adventure for all.

Plan your trip at gowheeltheworld.com