Meet Dalila Alvarez | Dance, Event and Portrait Photographer

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

Hi Dalila, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Photography was never something I initially planned on pursuing. It actually started on a trip to Iceland when my family gifted me a basic camera. I didn’t expect it, but I instantly fell in love with capturing the moments. After the trip, my cousin, a dance coach, needed a photographer for a workshop. Although I had zero experience with photographing dance, I offered to give it a try “at my own risk.” That leap of faith turned out to be the catalyst. From there, I committed myself to learning—taking classes with professional photographers, honing my skills, and immersing myself in the craft.
As I grew more passionate, I realized that photography wasn’t just a hobby; it was something I loved so much that I would do it for free. So, I thought, why not make it my full-time focus? And here we are, a year and a half later, and my business is thriving. The thought process behind starting my business was simple: I found something I loved, something that brought me joy, and I wanted to turn that passion into my life’s work.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey into photography was unexpected but deeply fulfilling. I never planned on becoming a photographer—it all started when my family gifted me a camera on a trip to Iceland. I fell in love with capturing moments, and that passion grew even stronger when I photographed a dance workshop for my cousin, despite having no prior experience. That leap of faith changed everything.

What sets me apart is that I strive to make every photoshoot a unique experience. I love incorporating props, scouting out distinctive locations, and bringing creative ideas to life so that each session feels like more than just a photoshoot—it’s an immersive, artistic journey. My photography style is colorful, bold, and fun, capturing the energy and vibrancy of every moment. Beyond that, I’ve built a community of incredible dance ambassadors—talented dancers who are always up for my craziest ideas and supportive mothers who have become like family. Their trust and enthusiasm inspire me to push creative boundaries.

The transition from social work to photography wasn’t easy. I had to start from scratch—learning, experimenting, and pushing past self-doubt. But the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that passion and dedication can turn a dream into reality. I built my business on the belief that if you love something enough to do it for free, you should find a way to make it your life’s work.

Through my photography, I want the world to see the beauty of movement, expression, and connection. My goal is not just to take pictures, but to create bold, joyful art that resonates and experiences that people will always remember.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
a beach day, venezuelan food, sunrise watching with a photoshoot. picketball tournaments , tour around Brickell and bayside, maybe some Art class at Painting with a Twist or a pottery session at Ceramic League of Miami and ofcourse miami’s Calle Ocho, visit Domino Park, and sip a cafecito at La Colada Gourmet. maybe some Salsa dancing at Ball & Chain live music, mojitos, and dancing all night!

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?
i want to do a shoutout for my family, my siblings and parents for pushing me to do what i love no matter what, to work hard and to always be myself. And most importantly Thank you to God for putting this God given talent in my hands and presenting me with amazing opportunities to capture life’s most amazing moments for my clients.

Website: https://photographybyda.pic-time.com/portfolio

Instagram: @photographybyda_

Facebook: Photography by DA

Image Credits
All images shot by Photography by DA: Dalila Alvarez