1- What’s your name and where do you come from ?
My name is Manuel Cappellari and I moved here from Argentina 8 years ago with my family; my wife and two little boys. Some know me as Manu, and others as Viejo Lobo, it’s a words game.
2- Where did you study photography and how long have you been a photographer ?
I’m a self-taught photographer. I’m very curious, I read everything I can find and ask a lot of questions. Although I had an unique school in Tulum. In the beginning, I was fortunate to work as a producer assistant for a fashion production company based in Tulum, Cocoshoot Productions, with clients like Victoria Secret, Vogue, Elle, big ones! The photographers were incredible, the TOP models are amazing, so many people to do one pic? I couldn’t believe it. But then I learned that the photography was just another part of the work.
3- How long have you been working in the Riviera Maya and why did you decide to work in this destination ?
I started working for the destination before moving here. We were collaborating from our advertising agency in Argentina with a local project in Tulum, a magazine called Republica. That’s how we learned that some dreams may come true and that we could try living in the Caribbean. We can’t be thankful enough!
4- How long have you been a wedding photographer and Why did you choose to shoot weddings?
Although I started shooting weddings by accident, right away I discovered that it was the most full-filling for me. In fashion all is beautiful and very profesional, but very technical as well, nothing is spontaneous. In a wedding instead, everything is unique: the Yes I Do, the first kiss, the hugs, the first dance. That’s what makes wedding photos so important, they will last for ever. It’s the beginning of a family. Wow!
5- How would you describe your wedding-photography style?
Relaxed and real, that’s the idea. No fake, please. If I could make myself invisible, it’d be perfect. I try not to interfere with what is happening so I can get the real feel. Of course we always have the portrait session with the couple and all the family, but most of the time I’m surrounding the couple and trying to get all the little moments.
6- Are you working alone or with a team ?
We are a team running the business, but I’m the eye behind the camera and the editor of my photos and videos. I think of it as an art, but I had to learn how to delegate a little, emails and the administration mostly.
Photo by Manuel Cappellari
7- What is your best wedding shoot memory ?
My first wedding. I do remember getting to the beach, and the view of the palm trees and the pelicans and all the place dressed up, like a dream… it was a bit shocking! And then I understood what a Destination Wedding was about.
8- Which word would you use to describe your job?
Feelings.
9- What is the best advice you could tell to the brides and Groom who are reading this interview for their wedding day?
Listen to your wedding planner, be yourself, and enjoy the moment. Be careful with Pinterest, the boards can look beautiful but many of them have editorial purposes and are not real weddings.
10- How future brides can contact you ?
The best way is by e-mail at hola@manuelcappellari.com
Photographs by: Viejo Lobo Films
Hair & Makeup by: Sarah Garnier
Wedding planner: Special thanks to Synda from Your Wedding Planner Tulum