We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kevin Figueroa. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kevin below.

Alright, Kevin thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

Currently, the most meaningful project I am working on is my feature-length documentary, Beyond Darkness: The Journey of a Goalball Champion. This film follows Manuel Puma as he prepares for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, California, and it shines a light on Goalball—a Paralympic sport that is well-known within the disabled community yet remains largely unknown to the wider public. I am incredibly grateful to have an amazing team by my side, including my Line Producer, Grace Pomilla, and my Producer and Composer, Aidan Fuller. Their dedication, creativity, and hard work have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life.

I first envisioned this documentary in 2019 during my freshman year at the School of Visual Arts. However, due to unforeseen events in 2020, my plans were abruptly put on hold. In 2024, after four years of freelancing, I decided that it was finally time to tell this story. With the unwavering support of Grace and Aidan, what once seemed like a distant dream is now becoming a reality.

Goalball has always been a significant part of my life. In high school, I participated in various sports, including swimming and wrestling, but I always looked forward to playing Goalball. What makes Goalball so unique is that it was designed specifically for blind and visually impaired athletes. While many sports are adapted for individuals with disabilities, Goalball prioritizes and celebrates the abilities of its players.

The game is played with six blindfolded players—three on each side—defending a goal. The objective is to throw a ball, slightly larger than a basketball and containing bells, past the opponents and into their net to score points. Players stay on their hands and knees to defend their goal and to counterattack.

I have countless cherished memories from my time on the court—from the practices with my teammates to the fast-paced tournament games. This sport holds a special place in my heart, and I believe it deserves to be in the spotlight for everyone to enjoy. My unique perspective as a filmmaker with a visual impairment, coupled with my firsthand experience of playing the game with blackout goggles, allows me to tell this story with authenticity and passion. I couldn’t do this without Grace and Aidan, whose commitment to this project continues to inspire me every day.

Kevin, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a legally blind director, cinematographer, and photographer from New York City. My journey in photography began in middle school at the New York Institute for Special Education (NYISE). I was inspired by my homeroom and math teacher, Ms. Maria Paone, who owned a Nikon D5100. One day during an annual winter concert, I asked if I could use her camera to take photos, and her response changed everything. From that moment, I began teaching myself the basics of photography, learning about ISO, shutter speed, and aperture, and experimenting with an on-camera flash.

I quickly started photographing school events and had the opportunity to shadow Jimmy Rivera, one of the gym teachers and the unofficial school photographer. Along with his cousin, John Hernandez, I learned the fundamentals of photography, including how to use Lightroom and understand good composition. I spent countless hours in Mr. John’s computer room, exploring Lightroom sliders and honing my skills by capturing everything from school concerts to prom nights.

In high school, I gradually transitioned to videography, which eventually led me to take filmmaking classes at the New York Film Academy. As senior year approached, I made the decision to pursue film school and was accepted into the School of Visual Arts (SVA). I loved the hands-on experience, the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, and access to studio space and equipment that I had only dreamed of using. However, when COVID-19 forced classes online, that magic quickly dissipated. I then decided to leave SVA and launch a full-time freelance photography career.

Shortly after leaving SVA, I opened my first photo gallery in New York City, showcasing my work focused on the beer and brewing industry. With Johnathan Marin as the director for this project. It was an exhilarating experience to see my photographs in a printed, physical form, bridging my passion for photography with the vibrant local scene and providing a tangible representation of my artistic vision.

After various portrait gigs, I landed my biggest opportunity yet at the Tribeca Film Festival, where, through my connection with Kara Baker, along with her trust and believing in me. I was hired as one of the House Photographers capturing red carpet events, world premieres, and VIP gatherings.

Being a visually impaired artist in the visual arts comes with its share of questions, how can a blind man take photographs? Is he really blind? Over the years, I have embraced these challenges, discovered new techniques, and learned to use my surroundings to capture my unique artistic vision. Every day, I prove to the doubters that I can succeed as a director, cinematographer, and photographer, while paving the way for other blind and low vision individuals to pursue similar careers.

Most recently, I have discovered a new passion at NYISE. I now have the opportunity not only to speak about my experiences but also to teach photography and filmmaking to blind and low vision students. Being able to provide guidance to the next generation of artists is incredibly rewarding, and I am proud to be someone they can look up to for inspiration and support.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a deep commitment to redefining what it means to be a visually impaired artist and to challenge the stereotypes often associated with disability. I believe that creativity transcends physical limitations, and my work is a testament to the power of unique perspectives. Every project I undertake—whether it’s a documentary, a film, or a photograph—is an opportunity to showcase the beauty and strength that can emerge from embracing one’s differences.

At the core of my mission is a desire to inspire others. I want to empower individuals, especially those who have been marginalized or underestimated, to pursue their creative passions and to see their unique visions as assets rather than obstacles. By sharing my experiences and breaking down traditional barriers in the visual arts, I hope to spark conversations about inclusivity and broaden the narrative surrounding disability.

Ultimately, my goal is not just to create compelling visual stories, but also to pave the way for a more inclusive creative industry—one where diverse voices are celebrated and where every person, regardless of their physical abilities, has the opportunity to tell their story.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

As a visually impaired artist, my creative journey is deeply personal and uniquely rewarding. My visual disability has taught me to perceive the world in a different light, one that is rich in contrasts, subtle nuances, and unexpected beauty. Every piece I create is an opportunity to share a perspective that not only challenges conventional viewpoints but also reflects the resilience that comes from overcoming obstacles. I channel my experiences and insights into my work, offering others a glimpse of a world that might otherwise remain unseen.

Beyond personal expression, I find immense fulfillment in knowing that my art inspires and uplifts others. It motivates me to know that my creative work can spark conversations about the intersection of disability and artistry, encouraging people to embrace their own differences. I am driven by the hope that my work will serve as a beacon for future generations, contributing to positive change and leaving a lasting legacy. The greatest reward of all is knowing that my art will continue to resonate and make an impact, even long after I am gone.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kevin-figueroa.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blind_light_photography?igsh=ZDh3a254Z3BnNG1w&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18ozBp4KF2/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kevinfigs1?si=KCZx2lo1ulO-SdJd