Jose’s initial resistance to wedding photography eventually gave way to a deep appreciation for it. He recalls the skepticism he felt about shooting weddings, considering it a lesser form of photography compared to high fashion or portraiture. He soon realized the unique artistic and financial potential of wedding photography and embraced it fully. In his first wedding shoots, he learned to balance his artistry with capturing special moments, which eventually led to a rewarding career. 

In 2000, digital photography began to dominate the event space. When digital began to establish itself as a standard, Jose chose to remain dedicated to film. His comfort with film and reluctance to adopt new technology influenced this decision. Despite feeling confident in his creative vision with film, he wasn’t entirely comfortable with digital, leading him to stick with film while many others embraced digital. Digital equipment eventually reached a point where it could support Jose’s creative vision, closing the gap between his film-based techniques and digital capabilities. Modern digital gear’s rapid enhancements helped him cater to younger clients who value quick turnaround times, an expectation that film could not always fulfill. Jose  finds his primary inspiration in his clients and the unique locations to which they bring him. Working with high-profile clients and traveling to different destinations challenges him to continually grow and adapt.

Jose addresses the common misconception that lavish weddings are purely wasteful and frivolous. He also highlights how the luxury wedding market provides substantial economic opportunities. For photographers aiming to expand their clientele, Jose emphasizes the importance of seizing pivotal career opportunities. One notable early career moment was being hired as an internal photographer for Martha Stewart Weddings, which opened doors to high-profile clients. He also emphasizes the value of being genuine, respectful, and easygoing in the photography and videography industry. Having a strong work ethic is crucial, and Jose credits his hard working immigrant parents for his own work ethic and drive for success. While many photographers focus solely on the quality of their work, personality and effort are the true differentiators for success. 

In closing, Jose reflects on how life experiences have deeply influenced his approach to photography, each of which have given him a deeper sensitivity to moments of bonding and the significance of family connections. He emphasizes that it takes time and experience to develop such depth in one’s work, advising young photographers to be patient with their journey and growth in the field.

Timestamps:

0:30 – Introduction of today’s episode and guest, Jose Villa. 

6:08 – Choosing an Unconventional Path. 

9:12 – The Surprising Journey of Wedding Photography. 

10:41 – Commitment to Film in a Digital World. 

16:17 – The Evolution of Jose’s Artistic Style. 

23:20 – Wealth, Purposeful Opulence and the Economic Impact of Luxury Weddings. 

26:15 – The Value of Experience and Pivotal Career Moments. 

30:28 – Humility, Work Ethic and Personality. 

40:28 – Challenges and Reflections on Work-Life Balance. 

53:42 – Reflecting on Life Experiences and Their Influence on Jose’s Photography.

Bio:

People often ask me how I developed my style, and how I create images that stand out in today’s highly competitive wedding market. Well, I am a fine art wedding photographer. My approach applies fine art photography to the living, breathing, fast-moving phenomenon that is a wedding. For me, it is all about making something beautiful. Ultimately, my goal is to craft vibrant, energetic, fine art images that are as unique as the people in the photographs.

I’m humbled to say that I have been published in many magazines around the world including, Martha Stewart Weddings,Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, Vogue Italia, Vogue Mexico, Vogue Bride Australia, Vogue Bride Japan, Geraldine Magazine, C Weddings, Flutter, The Knot, Instyle Weddings, Inside Weddings, BRIDES, Pacific Weddings, Cosmo Bride, PDN, American Photo, and many more around the world.

Named one the the top Wedding Photographers by Martha Stewart Weddings, Harpers Bazaar, Style Me Pretty, and Vogue; one of the top 10 wedding photographers in the world by American Photo Magazine, and one of the most influential photographers of our decade by PDN

Learn more about Jose Villa on his website and on Instagram at Jose Villa. You can purchase his book “Fine Art Wedding Photography” here.