Graduate engineering student Jose Castro, who is originally from El Salvador, was working in Nicaragua in the summer of 2008. The beautiful surroundings made him wish he could paint or draw. When his friend suggested that he get a camera, Castro discovered an artform he could pursue despite his lack of artistic training.

Although Castro considers photography a hobby, his work has been featured in several Salvadoran magazines. He’s also done some professional work — for engagements, weddings and birthdays — which helps to pay for books and tuition.

Nature photography is his first love. In August, Castro was on vacation in Orlando, Florida, when a storm hit. “I planned to take a photo of lightning bolts, but it was a coincidence that several lightning bolts struck the same spot,” he says.

Visit Jose’s Flickr page