David Peinado Romero

David Peinado Romero (Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, 1986) is a documentary photographer whose work explores the social, emotional and political consequences of life along the U.S.–Mexico border. He began his career in a small neighborhood studio, photographing weddings and community events to pay for his education. What started as a practical job soon revealed a deeper purpose: to preserve the stories and dignity of the people around him. Guided by a background in sociology and the visual arts, Peinado sees himself as a documentarian of reality rather than a traditional artist. His commitment to storytelling was shaped early on while covering the height of violence in Ciudad Juárez as an intern at El Norte, working closely with seasoned reporters during one of the darkest moments in the city’s history. He later joined La Polaka, known for its direct and unapologetic coverage of crime and the narco conflict — an experience that sharpened his ethical sensitivity and reinforced the weight of responsibility behind every photograph. His subsequent work at El Diario de Juárez, the region’s most influential newspaper, offered insight into the demands and constraints of mainstream media. Choosing independence, Peinado transitioned into collaborations with international outlets and press agencies, strengthening his conviction to portray border dynamics honestly: with both their brutality and their humanity. Today, his long-term approach seeks to reveal the everyday resilience of community.