Meet Maria Gabriela Montilla | Lifestyle photographer

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

Hi Maria Gabriela, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
Many people think being a photographer is just about clicking a button… and that’s it. But there’s so much more behind the scenes: study, lots of practice, planning, creative direction, endless hours of editing, emotional connection with clients, and a significant physical effort.
Especially in lifestyle photography, achieving natural results means creating a space where people feel relaxed and comfortable enough to be themselves. That, to me, is the magic of photography—capturing unique moments that can’t be repeated. I love witnessing those looks, those laughs, and all the beautiful things that unfold during a session.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Being a photographer is born from emotion and the need to tell real stories.
What sets my work apart is that I don’t just aim to capture how a moment looks, but how it feels. Whether it’s a family session, helping a brand showcase its product, or a spontaneous moment, my intention is always to reflect the genuine essence of the person in front of my lens.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy. I began my journey in Venezuela, where I co-founded Foto Captura, a photography business with two friends right after graduating from university. Years later, I made the brave decision to leave path behind and start from scratch in a completely new place, without knowing anyone.

I’ve faced many challenges—uncertainty, fear, and moments of doubt. But I’ve learned that growth often hides right where fear lives. Every “no,” every silence, every stumble taught me to be more patient, stronger, and more faithful to my vision.

One of the biggest lessons this journey has taught me is that authenticity always wins. Staying true to my values, my style, and my artistic voice has been key in building a brand that doesn’t just deliver photos, but creates experiences that stay in people’s hearts.

What I want the world to know is that behind every image I deliver, there’s intention, care, art, and a lot of love. My work celebrates real beauty, human connection, and that fleeting magic found in everyday life.

And while I’ve come a long way, I’m still evolving—always learning, dreaming, and moving forward with a grateful heart and a camera in hand.

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?
The first thing we’d do is go to the beach, take a walk through South Pointe Park, and watch the sunset. After that, we’d have dinner at Mister O1 — one of my favorite pizza spots.

I’d love for her to visit the Vizcaya Museum — it’s a magical place, full of beauty and history.
I’d also take her to Wynwood to enjoy the murals, explore local shops, and end the day with some amazing burgers at Skinny Louie.

For a more relaxed day, we’d have breakfast at Pura Vida — it’s super chill and delicious — and maybe do a little shopping at Aventura Mall. I absolutely love that place!

Of course, I’d take her to the Miami Design District, which always has something new: cool art, interesting events, and unique stores.
We could wrap up the day with dinner at Casadonna — a stunning restaurant with great vibes, lovely music, and the perfect atmosphere.

Miami is a fun and vibrant city, full of amazing things to do, great energy, and hidden places waiting to be discovered.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Behind every achievement, there are many people who, in one way or another, have helped me get to where I am today.
First, my family for teaching me from a young age to believe in myself and for supporting me even when my decisions weren’t the safest. Their love has always been my foundation.

To my clients, especially those who trusted me when I was starting from scratch in a new country. Thank you for choosing me, recommending me, and encouraging me to keep growing.

I also want to recognize all the creative, entrepreneurial, and dream-driven friends I’ve met in Miami. Their passion, discipline, and drive to build with purpose inspire me deeply.

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

Other: https://www.instagram.com/fotocaptura/