Photographer documents Chicago, Hispanic community

October 10, 2011 (CHICAGO)

He has spent decades capturing snapshots of Chicago politics and the city's Hispanic community through the lens of his camera.

And, at 72 years young, he is showing no signs of slowing down on his passion to document history with his photography.

He also has taken photos of movie stars, Pope John Paul, presidents, national political leaders, Illinois governor's since 1969, and every mayor of Chicago since Richard J. Daley.

Zuno compares the first Mayor Daley with Richard M. Daley.

"Senior was more strict," said Zuno. "Junior had a lot of experience from his father. He did a good job."

The 72-year-old photographer says he has enjoyed covering events and taking pictures of everyone. He has no favorites and looks forward to working with Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

"In people I capture the best expression of them or capture the best part of the event," Zuno said.

Miguel Zuno Jr. and his daughter Claudia are now in charge of Zuno Photographic Services for corporate and personal needs. It is located in the 1400-block of North Ashland Avenue. They pride themselves on quality and service.

"My father instilled in us to be the best and that is what keeps us going," said Zuno Jr. "What we sell is our dedication to the business and providing great service."

The company has embraced technology and the digital age. Even Zuno Sr. is involved in moving the company forward.

Zuno Jr. says technology requires more work and more labor to get the image that you want, but it is fun and well worth it.

"You have to embrace it," said Zuno Jr. "It is new, it is here and the future, so you have to keep going. We are continuing on that technology path and not looking back."

The siblings say they are not afraid of competition. They welcome it. They intend to continue to capture the spirit of a person or an event in a single frame.

"I feel part of the city, this state and this beautiful country," said Miguel Zuno Sr.

Zuno Sr. battled cancer almost five years ago. His cancer is now in remission. He spends all of his free time with his grandchildren and with volunteering at Rush Hospital, a place he calls his second home. He continues to instill in his adult children that it is important to give back to society .

Zuno Sr. says Chicago is his home and he is grateful for the life he has had here.

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