"Perfect! Now turn this way... just a little more... smile!" The photographer directing us seemed like a seasoned professional, but she wasn’t. She was a girl who couldn't have been more than 12 years old. Standing in front of the iconic "TEQUILA" sign in the small Mexican town of the same name, I watched as she masterfully worked multiple angles with our phone, producing shots that would make an Instagram influencer proud.

In the central plaza of Tequila, Jalisco—the region famous for its eponymous spirit—a remarkable micro-economy has emerged. While tourists browse vendors selling clay vessels of tequila and listen to traditional music, a team of child photographers has carved out their own entrepreneurial niche.

These children were working to earn a living. In the developed world, such scenes might raise concerns about child labor, but in Mexico, particularly in a small town, this is often a necessity. If these children’s parents were wealthy, they likely would not need to work at such a young age. However, in a developing country, they need to support their families and contribute to their household income.

It was mind-blowing to witness how skilled and proactive they were. They were not shy at all; instead, they were excellent salespeople. They approached us confidently, took pictures and videos from various angles, and demonstrated their intelligence and resourcefulness.

Watching these young photographers at work stirred complex emotions. Their resourcefulness and entrepreneurial spirit were impressive. Skills that could serve them well in any context. These children, whether they like it or not, had mastered skills many adults struggle with. Customer service, photography, negotiation.

Should they have had to? Perhaps not, but they had no choice. They were born into these circumstances and made the best of them. They were an example for all who witnessed. That no matter where you begin your story, no matter your circumstances, what you do with them is up to you.

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