South American Smiles | Smiles of South America | Photo Essay | Part 1

Smiles of South America is a four part photo essay series showcasing the vibrant locals in both posed and candid portraits. The following photos are from Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador in no particular order. I must admit that I’m just dying to go back to South America. I had such an amazing time during my nearly 6 months that I spent exploring back in 2010. The following smiling faces travel photos capture the spirit of the people of the region.

A sassy performer flashes a smile during the Fiesta del Gran Poder parade in La Paz, Bolivia.

A lady sits down to enjoy Mate (local tea) in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

A very enthusiastic male performer during the Fiesta del Gran Poder – Bolivia.

A lady sits down with her baby on the side of a busy street in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

A very friendly and entertaining Peruvian man entertains foreigners in Cusco, Peru.  I’ll never forget this authentic smiling face.

A drag queen makes his way down the street during the Sunday Market while apparently whispering something secret into the ear of another – Buenos Aires, Argentina.

A local indigenous lady smiles with her Llama while wearing her brightly coloured attire.

A smiling girl poses with a stray object on a floating island in Lake Titicaca, Bolivia.

An Ecuadorian man shines shoes while affectionately smiling at his customer.

A lovely child performs a song and dance – Lake Titicaca.

A smiling carved object in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile.

A smiling faces portrait drawn by a local at a nearby market in Quito, Ecuador.

A cute Ecuadorian boy gives me the thumbs up in Quito, Ecuador.

Some lovely ladies smile as our tour group is just about to leave – Lake Titicaca, Peru.

Two blind performers play their hearts out for passer-bys in hopes of receiving some small change in return for their efforts.