Meet En la Brega: Rediscovering Analog

Reviving Analog Photography in Western Puerto Rico

In a world dominated by digital media, a group of photography enthusiasts has decided to rescue the essence of analog format. En la Brega is an analog photography lab and art gallery located in western Puerto Rico. Its name, inspired by a Puerto Rican expression, reflects constant effort and evolving work.

A Space for Analog Photography

Founded by Nicol R. Chaves and Alejandra S. Escobar, En la Brega offers film development and digitization services for 35mm and 120mm formats, as well as disposable cameras. Specializing in C-41 color and black-and-white processes, the lab aims to provide the photography community with an accessible space to develop their art without relying on off-island services.

The Founders

Nicol R. Chaves, a Puerto Rican photographer with experience in curation and participation in photographic events in New York, has published two zines and a small book, and is currently working on her first photography book. Her vision has always been to create a space where Puerto Rican artists can develop and showcase their work.

Alejandra S. Escobar, a photographer and agronomist from Vega Baja, discovered her passion for analog photography during the pandemic while documenting her surroundings on her farm. The idea of opening a lab came from a conversation with Chaves, and together they turned their passion into a tangible project.

Services and Operations

To make their services accessible, En la Brega has strategic drop-off points that eliminate additional shipping costs. Customers can drop off their film rolls at the following locations:

En la Brega Film Lab

El Cliff Sangría Bar & Restaurant

Tuluum Restaurante y Tequila Bar

Film collection takes place Monday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Processing time varies depending on demand, with an estimated turnaround of 3 to 5 business days. Once the service is complete, customers receive their digitized images in JPG format via WeTransfer. Negatives can be picked up at the drop-off points or shipped by mail, following instructions on the lab’s website.

More Than a Lab: Community and Growth

In addition to film processing, En la Brega sells film rolls and disposable cameras and organizes workshops to strengthen the analog photography and artistic community on the island.

The lab is currently running a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe to acquire essential materials and expand operations, creating more local employment opportunities. Donations will help consolidate this space for creativity and the preservation of analog photography in Puerto Rico.

To support the project, you can contribute through the following link: Fundraiser by Nicol Rodríguez Chaves: EN LA BREGA FILM LAB.

En la Brega also promotes emerging artists, especially locals, through exhibitions open to the public. More than just a lab, it is a space for art, community, and resistance to the digital era.

📍 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

For location and contact information, visit this link.