US photographer Michael Dweck's Habana Libre exhibition opens

The speaker arrived in Cuba on a humanitarian visa, initially to help people. They were invited to a party and discovered Ferrandola, a cultural celebration, which was a pleasant surprise. Feeling welcomed, they returned multiple times, developing a deep connection with Cuba and its people. The speaker reflects on capturing the essence of the Cuban spirit through photography.

What does the speaker mean by photographing the essence of the Cuban people?

In what ways does the speaker feel connected to the Cuban people?