BTVF: Who are you, Alonso Almédo Castro?
A.C: My name is Alonso Almedo Castro. I was born in Caracas, Venezuela. I’m a lawyer by profession and moved to France at the start of 2004 to study law at the University of La Rochelle. I left my homeland due to the difficult political situation in my South American country.
BTVF: We first met you in the French baseball world through match commentary at La Rochelle Baseball Club. What do you remember from that time?
A.C: In 2014, I started by commentating on D2 national division matches. With President Pascal Régnier, we set up a sound system to attract crowds to baseball games. I commentated on some of the club’s biggest events, like the CBLE and the All-Star Games in 2016 and 2017. For me, baseball is about friends, friendship, joy, sunshine, hot dogs, beer, and more. Today, the club still has sound during matches.
BTVF: Then photography became a serious part of your life. Tell us about the professionalization of this career?
A.C: In 2013, I became a photographer, a passion I share and blend with all my other activities. Photography is more than a job to me; it’s a true passion, an art that captures and immortalizes a precise moment. I seek to enjoy myself while taking photos.
I photograph based on my mood, inspiration, feelings, my surroundings, and the opportunities that come my way.
BTVF: Photography brought you back to baseball. Foreign magazines use your photos, as does the federation. How do you approach photography specifically for this sport?
A.C: I love baseball photos—the action, the hits, the unexpected moments. You need to know the game to capture these moments. I go to D1 matches to immortalize my Latino friends; they need great photos for their home countries. Since last year, I’ve become a fashion photographer, breaking into the scene through Paris and La Rochelle. I’ve found my calling, my true passion. Today, my photos are published by three magazines (one UK and two USA) and seen worldwide. I’ve received great recognition for my work.
BTVF: What can we wish for you?
A.C: To keep living off my passions. I also want to thank you for your work in broadcasting. It’s a great initiative to stream baseball matches live. Technology has come a long way, and I wish you continued success and recognition. You do remarkable work.
Interview by DC
