A New Chapter for Behind the Light

Since its beginning, this space has held visual work, reflections, and moments captured behind the camera. Over time, it’s also become clear that the stories I’m most drawn to, and the ones that feel most necessary, are rooted in people, place, and purpose.

Beginning this February, Behind the Light relaunches as an independent editorial project publishing bi-weekly reported stories and photography. The focus is on human-centered storytelling that explores culture, community, and creative identity based in El Paso and open to stories beyond the city.

This shift reflects a return to journalistic practice: listening closely, reporting thoughtfully, and documenting the people shaping their communities from the ground up. The stories moving forward will center artists, organizers, musicians, and community builders whose work reveals how culture and care intersect in everyday life.

Past posts will remain as part of the archive, representing earlier chapters of visual exploration and creative growth. Going forward, new work will follow a consistent editorial structure, pairing reported narratives with intentional photography to create publish-ready features.

The first story of this new chapter will launch in February and will focus on community-driven impact through music and collective action. From there, Behind the Light will continue documenting cultural moments and grassroots efforts, locally and beyond, one story at a time.

Thank you for reading, for following along, and for stepping into this next chapter with me.

Sharvon Hales, CPP