
OAXACA MARKETS PHOTO TOUR
Oaxaca, México / Art & Culture / Street Photography

2 hours - hosted in Spanish and English
Experience hosted by Juan Pablo Barba

What you'll do
✨ Street Photography at Oaxaca’s Central de Abastos Market ✨
Step into the heart of Oaxaca and discover the true essence of Mexico through your lens. In this exclusive 2-hour photography experience, we will explore Central de Abastos, one of the largest and most iconic markets in the country. This bustling marketplace is where Oaxaca comes alive every day vendors, families, travelers, and workers filling its corridors with colors, textures, aromas, and stories. It’s a place that provides fresh products to the entire city, and more importantly, it reflects the pulse of real, authentic Mexico.
Far from the polished tourist spots, Central de Abastos offers a raw and dynamic stage for street photography. Every corner reveals a scene waiting to be captured: vibrant piles of fruits and vegetables, artisans selling handmade goods, people bargaining with energy and smiles, and the rhythm of daily life unfolding in real time. The atmosphere is electric, filled with contrasts that make for powerful and unforgettable images.
You will be guided by an experienced local professional photographer, who will not only lead you through the market but also teach you how to approach street photography with confidence and creativity. Along the way, I’ll share my best tips on composition, light, and storytelling, helping you capture the soul of Oaxaca through candid portraits, dynamic street scenes, and detailed textures that tell a bigger story.
This experience is open to everyone whether you’re just beginning to explore photography or you’re already an advanced photographer, you’ll gain valuable insight into how to observe, anticipate, and capture authentic moments. You’ll learn how to work respectfully in a cultural context, approach subjects with sensitivity, and find beauty in the ordinary details that often go unnoticed.
Beyond the technical skills, you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of Oaxaca’s daily life. As we move through the market, I’ll share stories and insights about the traditions, people, and history that make Central de Abastos so important for the city. By the end of the walk, you’ll have more than just photographs you’ll have lived a piece of the Mexico that locals know and cherish.
📸 Join me for this unforgettable experience in Oaxaca’s Central de Abastos, where culture, people, and photography come together to reveal the beauty of Mexico’s everyday life.
What's included
The activity includes a delicious coffee or another drink
in "El Volador" at the beginning or end of the tour.
Meet your Host, Juan Pablo Barba
Juan Pablo Barba is a passionate Mexican photographer and world traveler whose lens captures stories with both artistry and soul. His work has been featured in prestigious outlets including National Geographic, Playboy, Maxim, GQ, and Mexico Desconocido, earning him recognition for his ability to reveal beauty and authenticity in every frame.
Driven by a deep love for Mexican culture and its people, Juan is currently traveling across the country, documenting traditions, landscapes, and cultural treasures for his upcoming photobook a project that celebrates Mexico’s vibrant identity.
Now based in Oaxaca, one of the most visually stunning regions of Mexico, Juan has been immersed in photography since childhood. Over the years, he has refined his craft through countless courses and by staying at the forefront of emerging trends and techniques, ensuring his work remains both fresh and timeless.
Beyond his career behind the camera, Juan finds true joy in sharing his knowledge with others. He teaches photography to both local and international students, helping them not only master technical skills but also discover their own creative voice.
Where we'll be
We will start the tour at a local coffee shop "El Mayordomo" located in the heart of Oaxaca, the central zocalo. We can continue the conversation over a delicious cup of coffee or chocolate or the drink you prefer.




































