Downey vs. Warren Rivalry Spirit Week

Eliseo Payan and Ariel Lara
November 10, 2021

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About the Contributors

Eliseo Payan, Photographer / Videographer

Entering his first year in The Downey Legend, Eliseo Payan, 12, an extroverted and outgoing individual who enjoys making jokes, talking to people, and lightening the mood, Payan is ready to put his best effort into what he loves most; photography. Photography instantly became one of his passions as he was able to capture the environment around him and turn it into art. Though photography is one of his passions, he also enjoys many other hobbies, such as painting, singing, and acting. Although he is unsure of his major, he strives to go to college and get a career with as much creative freedom as possible to express and explore his creativity.

As someone who is very passionate about their hobbies, Payan enjoys many activities that include interacting with the world around him. “My main passion is photography and capturing the beauty of the world around me no matter how simple it may be, there is always something- a meaning behind it,” Payan stated. “The unique thing about photography is how you can take anything through the lense of a camera and keep it forever. The Downey Legend was the perfect opportunity to take advantage of what I like most and show it to my community.”

Ariel Lara, Photographer

As she enters her last year of high school, Ariel Lara, 12, joins The Downey Legend with hopes to step out of her comfort zone, while also learning more about photography. After high school, Lara plans to go to Cerritos College and eventually Cal State Long Beach to earn her degrees in photography. After earning her degrees, she hopes to start her own photography business for runway fashion or magazines. Aside from photography, Lara also likes to spend her free time helping others and caring for her pet turtle Napoleon.

Lara’s passion was first sparked at age 14 after seeing her uncle’s love, passion, and drive for photography. “When I used to see him go on his free time taking photos and showing them to me, and how all the editing and the process works, it really interested me,” Lara said. “Once I started to try it out, I realized how good I am at it. It’s just a really fun way for me to be myself and express who I am through photos.”