Meet MICAFOTO

We had the good fortune of connecting with MICAFOTO and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi MICAFOTO, what do you attribute your success to?
I believe that the most crucial factor for my success as a photographer is effective communication. For example, during a shoot, helping the model relax and boosting their motivation can result in capturing their best expressions. Establishing good communication with clients builds trust, which leads to repeat business and new opportunities. I am dedicated to understanding and meeting the clients’ needs and expectations. While passion, creativity, and technical skills are fundamental for any professional, I prioritize and value the importance of maintaining strong, positive relationships with people.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
About My Art:

Capturing moments and making them eternal is my job. I fall in love with the models as I photograph them. Of course, it’s only during the shoots—otherwise, it would be a big problem, haha. In portrait photography, I value capturing moments when my subjects are most relaxed and able to express their true selves and inner beauty. When shooting natural landscapes, I often feel a divine presence that moves me to press the shutter. In those moments, tears sometimes flow naturally. These are the moments that make my heart tremble the most. My greatest hope is that my work can inspire people and add color to their daily lives.

Professional Journey:

My journey to my current professional status has been quite unique. I initially came to America for a different reason, but after facing setbacks, I began my journey as a photographer. People around me often complimented my photography skills, which encouraged me to study photography more seriously. I started with black-and-white film because I loved the work of photographer Elliott Erwitt. I spent up to seven hours in the darkroom developing my photos, and I enjoyed the process. Later, I became fascinated by the colors of slide film and eventually transitioned to digital cameras. This shift led me to also work on music videos and commercial videos. I even had the opportunity to work as an assistant to a well known professional German photographer. There were times when I was on the brink of giving up because I wasn’t satisfied with my work, but I always had people around me who supported me, and that helped me persevere.

Lessons Learned:

One of the most important lessons I learned came from a teacher during my black-and-white film days: “Never shoot for free.” Free work has no value. Even if the payment is low, receiving money for your work gives it value, earns respect, and leads to future opportunities.

Additionally, there are some universal lessons that apply to any profession:
Flexibility and Adaptability: Understanding the importance of being flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances.
The Importance of Communication: Realizing that good communication with clients and team members is key to success.
Self-Belief and Continuous Improvement: Believing in myself and continuously striving to improve has given me the confidence to face any challenge.

Message to the World:

I have a strong desire to bring joy and inspiration to people through my photography. My goal is to highlight the beauty and individuality of my subjects, positively impacting those who view my work. I hope that my photos help people find and appreciate beauty in their everyday lives.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Santa Monica + Venice
Photo Spot: Venice Canals, Abbot Kinney Mural
Breakfast: The Rose Venice
Lunch: Gjelina
Shop: Abbot Kinney Blvd
Sightseeing: Venice Boardwalk, Santa Monica Pier
Dinner: Elephante (Great food, great view)

Day 2: Downtown LA
Photo Spot: The Last Bookstore, The Bradbury Building (Film location of Blade Runner)
Brunch: Eggslut at Grand Central Market
Take: Angels Flight
Visit: The Broad Museum
Dinner: Le Petit Paris (Amazing French restaurant)
Evening Activity: Watch LA Phil at Walt Disney Concert Hall

Day 3: Echo Park + Silver Lake
Morning: Horseback riding at Sunset Ranch Hollywood
Breakfast: Lady Byrd Cafe
Activity: Swan Boat at Echo Park
Lunch: Pine & Crane
Shop: Sunset Junction, Farmers Market
Photo Spot: Micheltorena Stairs, The Murray Stairs
Evening Activity: Baseball game at Dodger Stadium (My best friend is a big fan of Ohtani); get some beer and hot dogs

Day 4: Culver City
Morning Hike: Baldwin Hills
Breakfast: Lodge Bread
Shop: Platform
Lunch: Bianca
Ice Cream: Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Dinner: Lillie’s Bistro & Garden (Culver Hotel)

Day 5: Malibu
Brunch: Malibu Farm Cafe (My favorite breakfast place)
Activity: Relax at the beach
Shop: Malibu Country Mart
Lunch: Broad Street Oyster Co. (Lobster Rolls)
Photo Spot: The Historic Adamson House, sunset at Point Dume
Dinner: Taverna Tony (Greek)

Day 6: Montrose
Morning Hike: Millard Falls in Altadena
Breakfast: Toasted. Cafe (Great toast options)
Photo Spot: Descanso Gardens
Afternoon Tea: The T Room
Shop: Lost Books (Great vinyl selections and many plants, unique interior)
Dinner: Casa Cordoba (Spanish, tapas)

Day 7: Ojai
Morning Hike: Rose Valley Fall
Brunch: Love Social Cafe
Photo Spot: Bart’s Books
Shop: Farmers Market, FIG Curated Living (Cute store), and Heavenly Honey Ojai (The best honey)
Visit: Ojai Olive Company (The best olive oil)
Wine Tasting: The Ojai Vineyard
Activity: Relax at hot springs
Evening Activity: Sunset yoga at Meditation Mount
Accommodation: Stay at Caravan Outpost (Airstreams) and BBQ

People who are passionate about their daily work, whether they are artists, musicians, or chefs, are truly inspiring. I love eating, so going out for delicious meals or cooking is always enjoyable for me. In a world overflowing with information and people, I believe it’s important to occasionally disconnect and visit places in nature where there’s no cell service to reset oneself.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The person I am most grateful for is my husband. Since we met 23 years ago, he has always supported me. I am able to freely pursue my passions because of his unwavering encouragement. Additionally, I am especially thankful to Eri Beverly a fashion writer who has been instrumental in my career. Her support opened doors for me to shoot for my favorite fashion magazines and brand catalogs. To everyone who loves and supports my photography, I am deeply thankful and filled with gratitude

Website: https://www.micafoto.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/micafoto

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micafoto

Twitter: https://x.com/micafoto

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/micafotopage/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/micafoto

Other: Tumblr
https://micafoto.tumblr.com

Image Credits
MICAFOTO