Photography by Jonathan Mendez

Founder, El Pino Collective

Athlete, academy owner, and photographer documenting competition, people, and environments with a disciplined, documentary approach.

I am a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner with firsthand experience inside competitive environments. That perspective informs how I photograph sports, events, and people — with respect for movement, timing, and the moments that matter most.

Through El Pino Collective, my work spans sports and competition, travel and lifestyle, portraits, and live events. I approach every assignment with an understanding of professional etiquette, athlete safety, and unobtrusive storytelling.