Meet ALE CASTELLANOS | Mexican storyteller

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

Hi ALE, how do you think about risk?
Risk has been a crucial factor in my career as a wedding photographer. From the very beginning, I trusted my intuition and took a leap of faith, fully committing to my dreams. Every time I face significant decisions in my career, I reflect on that pivotal moment when I chose to leave everything behind to pursue photography. Following my heart has always led me to new challenges and opportunities, reinforcing my belief that embracing risk is essential for growth and success in my field.

We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally? Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way? What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?

My art is a blend of visual poetry and storytelling, rooted deeply in my Mexican heritage. As a wedding photographer, I strive to capture not just moments, but emotions, weaving them into a narrative that tells a unique love story. What sets me apart is my ability to combine editorial artistry with candid, heartfelt moments, creating images that are both timeless and intimate.

I am most proud of the connections I make with my clients. Each wedding is a new story, and being entrusted to document such a significant day is an honor I do not take lightly. I am excited by the endless possibilities each new project brings and the challenge of capturing the essence of each couple’s unique journey.

Getting to where I am today professionally was far from easy. It required a lot of dedication, hard work, and resilience. One of the biggest challenges was establishing myself in a competitive industry. To overcome this, I focused on honing my craft, continuously learning, and staying true to my artistic vision. Networking and building strong relationships with clients and other professionals in the field also played a crucial role in my growth.

Along the way, I have learned several valuable lessons. Firstly, authenticity is key. Staying true to my style and vision has attracted clients who appreciate my work for what it truly is. Secondly, perseverance is essential. There were times when things didn’t go as planned, but persistence and a positive attitude helped me push through. Lastly, the importance of community cannot be overstated. The support from my family, peers, and mentors has been invaluable.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that my work is driven by passion and a deep love for storytelling. Each photograph is crafted with care, aiming to capture the essence of love and joy. My brand is about more than just taking pictures; it’s about creating lasting memories and telling stories that resonate for a lifetime.

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?
If my best friend was visiting Miami for a week, I would want to show them the best of what this vibrant city has to offer. Here’s a little itinerary of some of my favorite spots:

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Morning: We would start the day with a delicious and healthy breakfast at Pura Vida to fuel up for our adventures ahead.
Afternoon: After checking into our accommodation, we would spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and enjoying the lively atmosphere of South Beach.
Evening: For dinner, I would take my friend to Osaka Cocina Nikkei, where we can indulge in the unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors.
Day 2: Art and Culture

Morning: We would explore the artistic side of Miami by visiting the Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and taking in the stunning contemporary art exhibits.
Afternoon: Next, we would head to the Wynwood Walls to marvel at the vibrant street art and grab lunch at a local spot in Wynwood.
Evening: We would enjoy a casual dinner at Mr. 01 Pizza followed by drinks at The Wharf Miami to experience Miami’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Day 3: Nature and History

Morning: A visit to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens would be a must, not only for its historical significance but also because it holds a special place in my heart.
Afternoon: After exploring Vizcaya, we would have lunch at La Mar by Gaston Acurio to enjoy delicious Peruvian cuisine with waterfront views.
Evening: We would end the day with a sunset cruise around Biscayne Bay followed by dinner at Zuma Miami for a memorable dining experience.

Day 4: Brunch, Shopping, and Relaxation in Design District

Morning: We’ll start the day with a delightful brunch at Table in the Design District, where we can indulge in delicious dishes and enjoy some refreshing mimosas to kick off the day.
Late Morning: After brunch, we’ll head out to explore the trendy boutiques and unique shops in the Design District, soaking in the latest fashion trends and discovering hidden gems.
Afternoon: We’ll continue our retail therapy session in the Design District, browsing through local designers and international brands to find the perfect additions to our wardrobes.
Late Afternoon: To add a touch of relaxation to our day, we’ll treat ourselves to a rejuvenating massage at a luxurious spa in the area.
Evening: Finally, we’ll enjoy a leisurely dinner at Zuma Miami to unwind and reflect on our fabulous day of shopping, dining, and pampering.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Mainly, my parents have been a tremendous driving force behind my major life decisions. They always supported me and, from a very young age, encouraged me to choose a career that would make me truly happy. They have always stood by the theory: dedicate yourself to something that makes you so happy that even if you weren’t paid for it, you would still love doing it. Their unwavering belief in this philosophy and their constant encouragement have been instrumental in my journey as a wedding photographer. I am deeply grateful for their love and support, which have been pivotal in shaping my career and passion. Now that I dedicate myself to this, I truly feel what they told me. When I am working and enjoying my work so much, I feel like I am playing with my best friends, taking photos of them, and that feeling is priceless.

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

Other: email: aalecass@gmail.com

Image Credits
Alecas