We reached out to Hersley-Ven Casero to learn more about his work and the inspiration behind his canine-focused street photography. First, we wanted to know what drew the Filipino photographer to capture dogs as subjects in his candid street shots. Here’s what Hersley-Ven shared with us: “As an artist, street photography for me was a very natural extension to my creative outlet and curiosity at the world. I have always been drawn to the unnoticed, fleeting moments that reveal humor, beauty, or quiet truth. Catch A Moment became my way of capturing those split-second alignments that often go unseen and would otherwise be lost in unrecorded history. Living in Dumaguete, I find endless inspiration in the streets—ordinary scenes can suddenly feel surreal or meaningful. Photography helps me stay present, curious, and connected to my surroundings.”
We also asked Hersley whether his approach to photographing dogs differs from how he captures humans on the street. He responded: “Yes—there’s a similar but different kind of empathy involved. I treat stray dogs with the same observational respect, but I also see them as symbols of quiet resilience. They’re survivors, often overlooked but deeply present. I don’t disturb them—I wait for a natural moment that reveals their spirit or story.”
Hersley-Ven Casero also shared with us that it’s not very common for dog owners to react after seeing his photos of their pets. He explained: “Most of the dogs I photograph don’t have owners. They’re street dogs, surviving on their own, living among humans yet abandoned by them. There’s a silent, aching desire in their eyes—a yearning to revive an ancient bond we’ve long neglected. Still, when people see the photos, they often feel something stir. A pang of protectiveness, perhaps, for a creature so exposed. Or maybe a flicker of recognition—a mirror to their own fragility. It’s powerful how an image can shift the way we see these animals—from background figures to beings with quiet dignity.”
When asked to pick his personal favorite photo, the street photographer admitted, “I couldn’t begin to choose just one—many hold meaning for me.” Still, he shared a special favorite: a silhouette of a dog against a golden Dumaguete sunrise, standing like a silent guardian by the sea. He explained, “It captures the heart of strays—resilience, loyalty, and a quiet bond with place. Moments like that remind me why I keep returning to the streets with my camera: to honor the beauty in survival and presence.”
