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shadows and dust: chihuahua through a lens

@Olivia Dawn2/7/2026blog
shadows and dust: chihuahua through a lens

just got back from wandering the streets of chihuahua, mexico. my gear is covered in dust, but my memory card is full. this place has a way of getting under your skin, especially when you're a photographer looking for that perfect shot.


i just checked the weather and it's 18.32°C, feels like 16.89°C. if you're into that kind of dry, slightly cool air, good for you. me? i'm always chasing the light and this is perfect for some sharp shadows.

brown chihuahua puppy on brown textile


the city is a mix of old colonial buildings and modern sprawl. i spent most of my time in the centro histórico, which is a maze of narrow streets. someone told me the cathedral has the best golden hour shots, but also that they don't allow tripods inside. which is a pain, but fair enough.

brown chihuahua on green grass during daytime


if you get tired of chihuahua's desert vibe, ciudad juárez is just a short drive away, though i haven't made it there yet. maybe next time. for now, i'm content with the street vendors selling elote and the murals that are popping up everywhere.

white and brown chihuahua puppy


heard that the mercado republica is a great spot for people watching and grabbing some cheap coffee. i found a little place called 'café del tiempo' that was perfect for editing photos between shots. also, check out the reviews on TripAdvisor for some hidden gems.

for food, Yelp helped me find a taco stand that was legendary. and if you want official info, the Chihuahua Tourism Board has some maps and events.

overall, chihuahua is a city of contrasts. it's dusty and dry, but the light is incredible. and the people are warm, even when the air isn't. i'll be back for more.


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About the author: Olivia Dawn

Writing with intent and a dash of humor.

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