US photography enthusiast sets sights on a productive 2024

Video by Wang Haolan

Anna Gutierrez, an American music and art teacher with a passion for photography, has established close connections within the local community through her hobby and looks forward to achieving more in the new year.

Gutierrez, who arrived in Shenzhen last August, used her passion for photography to help her quickly integrate into urban life and establish strong relationships.

Anna Gutierrez takes photos when taking a stroll near her workplace in the OCT Loft neighborhood.  Photos by Wang Haolan except otherwise stated

“I’ve been involved with a local rugby team here in Shenzhen and have completed several media projects for them, which has allowed me to establish many social connections,” Gutierrez noted, adding that she plans to travel to Thailand to film a documentary for the team.

During weekends, Gutierrez works with a local art community and has even produced a documentary featuring women who work as dance and physical education teachers. “I have also exhibited my photography at a local bar, which will be showcased next year. It’s amazing to be involved in such events.”

Anna Gutierrez takes a walk in the OCT Loft, looking for interesting people and scenes for photography. Xu Shuntian

Gutierrez also praised the city’s convenient transportation system, emphasizing that she can easily travel across the urban area to capture wonderful moments.

“My first impressions of Shenzhen are that it is clean and beautiful, the architecture is amazing, and the people here are really nice,” she remarked.

Anna Gutierrez takes a photo in OCT Loft. Xu Shuntian

In her spare time, she frequently plays soccer at professional fields in Futian, where she has discovered a variety of dining options and met many other expats through social events.

As a music and arts teacher, Gutierrez creatively combines teaching English with music. “I teach kids English words and vocabulary through English music, as I believe this makes sense,” she explained.

Anna Gutierrez in Nanshan District.

This year marks Gutierrez’s transition to becoming an independent teacher, as opposed to her previous role as a teaching assistant in the U.S. “I've gained a lot of confidence as a teacher and photographer, and the programs I’ve been involved in have helped me smoothly transition into this new role,” she stated, expressing her aspirations to carry her achievements forward into the new year while aiming for even higher goals.

“In the Year of the Dragon, I hope to capture more beautiful photos, collaborate with more artists in Shenzhen, become the best teacher I can be, and achieve a perfect balance between my two passions,” she said.