Wedding photography: beyond the images, stories

Born and raised in the Canary Islands, Alejandro Díaz has become one of the most inspirational wedding photographers in the Archipelago. Despite his youth, his love for what he does and his approachable nature behind the camera have taken him around the world, capturing the essence of hundreds of couples and, as he himself puts it, immortalising the memory of every love story.

In this post, Alejandro shares more about the deeper, less visible side of his work, offering his best tips for couples seeking inspiration.

Alejandro Díaz

How did you get started in photography?

The truth is, it all happened by chance. My father has been involved in photography since he was young, so there was always some contact with it at home, but I paid little attention; I was always more connected to music. I started studying Sound Engineering, but it didn’t work out, so I decided to study a vocational course in Sound and Image in Madrid. Surprisingly, I began to enjoy the photography side more, and I started working at parties and events while studying to live more comfortably in Madrid.

In 2011, I finished my studies and decided to return to Lanzarote because Madrid was in the middle of a crisis. However, when I arrived on the island, I found that the situation was just as bad, if not worse. So, I decided to take my camera to the streets, to local festivals and events, taking photos and sharing them on social media. One way or another, I started to get noticed.

And how did wedding photography come about?

A friend of mine was getting married and asked me if I could photograph the celebration; with no idea how to shoot a wedding, we went ahead. She liked the work, and I enjoyed the experience. I realised that many people were coming to the island to get married, so I decided to start my own business. I began in 2012 with three or four weddings a year, and now it has grown to 60 or 70. It’s been a long process of starting small and gradually growing, and now I can finally say that Alejandro Díaz makes a living from it.

What do you enjoy most about this type of photography?

For me, the most valuable thing is owning such an important memory. Although it can be a bit daunting, I love that responsibility. It fills me with pride that, after years, that physical memory remains and was created by me. That feeling is definitely what I enjoy most.

You also do couple photography. What’s a session day like for you?

The truth is, I don’t approach my work as photo sessions. What I do is spend a day with my clients and tell a story of that day. I always try to make sure they don’t feel like they’re hiring a service, but creating a memory—an image that takes them back to what they felt in that moment.

It’s different with every couple. Sometimes that memory is captured in a couple of hours, and other times, in just 20 minutes. There’s always a different rhythm, but until we have that reflection, I don’t leave.

Do you plan everything in advance, or do you leave room for improvisation?

The only thing I can control is the sunlight and adapting to the weather. Beyond the technical aspects, everything is improvisation. Believe it or not, it depends a lot on them and very little on me! My mission is to let them be themselves and capture that in the images.

Tell us about your favourite photograph.

It’s really hard to choose just one photo because, for me, they’re not just photos—they’re stories. And between one story and another, it’s impossible to decide.

If I had to choose a moment where everything truly came together, it would be a photograph taken from the air at Las Conchas beach, in La Graciosa. A very simple photo where all the conditions were perfect. However, 99% of the images are my favourites.

How do you create that chemistry between the photographer and the couple?

There’s no exact explanation, but connection is one of the most fundamental pillars of my work. I try to help with my personality; I’m a very approachable person, and I put myself in the couple’s shoes, thinking about how I would like to be treated. I don’t make them feel like clients but like companions, being empathetic and letting everything flow naturally. I aim to create a genuine bond, and I think I achieve that 99% of the time. Nowadays, if I can’t have direct contact with the clients and the process is managed through an intermediary, I don’t take on the job.

Tell us about something that inspires you.

To get ideas and find inspiration, I watch a lot of films, series, and explore the work of other artists, such as paintings. And to disconnect and find myself, there’s nothing like the island of Lanzarote and its sea. If I didn’t have that peace of being calm by the sea, I wouldn’t be able to do this. Lanzarote is my place.

Why do you think so many people come to Lanzarote to celebrate their wedding?

We’re lucky to live in a place with energy. People don’t visit the island just for its beaches or climate, but for how it feels here. 90% of the people who get married in Lanzarote have been here before. I think it’s because of its atmosphere, the contrast of the volcanoes, and the variety of landscapes within just a few kilometres. For me, people come here to feel Lanzarote, something that can’t be described in words.

What advice would you give to a couple before their wedding day?

The advice I give is not to play with your memory. The day passes, and in the end, it’s only left in your mind. The celebration ends, the catering is over, and you won’t wear the dress again… But the photos and videos last forever. No money can pay for a photo with your grandfather on the day he’s no longer with you. Being able to keep that memory with all your loved ones on such a special day is forever. Nothing can replace a well-told story.

What role do social media play in your work?

My second office is on Facebook, Instagram, and my website. I would say these are the three pillars for any photographer who wants to work internationally. If you want to explore the world and work with different cultures, it’s essential to use social media. Almost all the weddings I’ve had outside of Spain have come through these platforms.

How can people see your work and contact you? How much notice is needed?

To check out my work, you can visit my Instagram. And if you want to dive deeper into each story, I invite you to visit my website.

Right now, I’m booking up to a year and a half in advance, so it’s important to secure the date as soon as possible. Pre-wedding photos can be done within a week or so, but for a wedding, the earlier the better. My preferred way of contact is a phone call, a video call, or, of course, meeting in person: hearing the person’s voice and feeling who I’m talking to.