How We Filmed a Tradition for Coyotas Doña María
- Alejandro Mendivil
- Mar 13
- 2 min read
"Nostalgia que trasciende" is a documentary created for Coyotas Doña María, following Doña María and the generations who continue her work, preserving a tradition that is part of Hermosillo’s cultural heritage.
The goal was to create a piece that honors the present of the business while also recognizing its history, showing how traditions stay alive when they are passed down from one generation to the next.
At its core, the documentary centers on family, tradition, and the love for a craft that has been carried forward through generations.
To support this story, we developed a poem that guides the narrative of the film and highlights the values behind it. This element allows the piece not only to inform, but also to convey the passage of time, the rhythm of everyday work, and the deeper meaning of preserving a tradition.
Filming in Villa de Seris
Production took place in Villa de Seris, one of Hermosillo’s most historic neighborhoods and the place where coyotas originated.
The documentary was shot with a small team designed to work closely and respectfully within the natural rhythm of the location. Filming began early in the morning and continued throughout the day, allowing us to document the start of daily activity and the moments that shape life inside the space.
Capturing the authentic atmosphere of the business was essential. We also considered practical details to maintain a natural look on camera, such as controlling shine and adapting the lighting to the environment. The camera team worked with a range of lenses, filters, and lighting setups to support the visual tone of the film.
Our art direction focused on preserving authenticity by working with real elements from the space and subtle details that reinforced the environment.
Everyday objects that belong to the visual world of the business—such as baskets, photographs, and personal accessories—were carefully arranged so that each element within the frame contributed context and memory to the story.
For us, it was important to approach the roots of a tradition that has endured over time by observing the spaces, gestures, and moments that have shaped its history. From that perspective, the film reveals the love for a craft, the family bond that sustains it, and a legacy that continues to carry forward across generations.
Stories like this remind us that many traditions begin in everyday life and endure thanks to the people who keep them alive.
What traditions are part of your community? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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