At Viva La Foto, we spend so much time capturing everyone else’s stories that we rarely pause to share our own. Today, we’re turning the lens around and introducing the heart behind the camera — Maribel.

To help you get to know her a little better, we asked a few questions about her journey, her inspiration, and what photography truly means to her.

• How did your journey into photography begin?

MK: My love for photography has been there since forever I would say, because I used to look at the magazine, enjoy seeing all the different images, cut them and create collages. When I was taking walks, I was always admiring the graffiti art, advertising photos, so photography has always been in my life.

• What inspired you to create Viva La Foto?

MK: I Always love photography.

I started taking family photos or photographs of people, but because of my sons, I discovered a new niche.

• How would you describe your photography style in three words?

MK: I want to always capture the real moment, to freeze it in time and to make it look natural.

Maybe my style can be described as fun, spontaneous and natural.

• What’s your favourite part of working with families and couples?

MK: When they come and see the photos and they are really happy. I feel connected when taking the photos and I like directing them so we can together create memories they will cherish forever.

• How do you help clients feel relaxed in front of the camera?

MK: By playing really nice music, guide them how to pose, follow my instruction, show them what to do. I always welcome their ideas and initiative too!

Music allows me and my customers to be happy and make the whole experience even better.For children I will sing along a nursery song, for adults I would say a silly joke, something like : “pretend you like each other “ or “the person that doesn’t smile pays the bill”.

• What makes a photo truly meaningful to you?

MK: Is in my blood, absolutely love taking picture. For me is not about the money, obviously is my profession but it is in my blood, in my veins.

• What has been one of your most memorable moments behind the camera?

MK: Sometimes the most beautiful moments happen before the photos are even taken.

A few days before the session, a mom reached out to me with a special idea. She wanted to surprise her partner with a photoshoot. She came to the studio ahead of time, asked thoughtful questions, and carefully planned every detail to make the moment unforgettable.

The day before the shoot, she stopped by again — this time with a cake and balloons in hand. Everything was set. Five minutes before they arrived, she sent me a text message so I could be ready.

When they walked in, I played the music we had chosen. He looked a little confused at first, trying to understand what was happening. Then I slowly opened the curtain.

On the other side was the surprise.

In that instant, I could see pure happiness on his face — followed by tears. The kind of tears that come from feeling deeply loved and truly seen.

Those are the moments I live for. Not just the photos, but the emotion behind them. The planning, the anticipation, the surprise… and finally, the joy.

That’s the magic of a surprise photoshoot.

• What do you hope clients feel when they receive their images?

MK: Hopefully I have captured something that will be passed thru generations.

• What does being “behind the camera” mean to you personally?

MK: Being behind the camera means everything to me. It’s where I feel most fulfilled. Photography isn’t just my job — it’s something that truly makes me happy. I feel incredibly lucky to do what I love and to be trusted to capture families and their most meaningful moments. Being able to preserve those memories is a privilege I never take for granted.

At Viva La Foto, photography is about more than beautiful images — it’s about connection, trust, and preserving the moments that matter most. We’re so proud of the care and heart Maribel brings to every session, and we’re grateful to share her passion with the families who invite us into their stories.

If you’d like to create your own memories with Viva La Foto, we’d love to welcome you.