READING TIME: 3 min 37 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 02/24/2026
UPDATED: 02/24/2026
For Joy Zamora, photography has never been about defining a single style — it has always been about responding to people. Based in Spain and working internationally, Joy has spent more than a decade documenting weddings across Italy, France, Greece, Morocco, Thailand, and beyond, building a body of work rooted in observation, emotional sensitivity, and creative intention.
“My background blends editorial aesthetics with a documentary approach,” he explains. “I’m inspired by cinema, fashion, and real human connection.”
That intersection — where fashion meets honesty and cinematic influence meets lived experience — defines everything he creates.
Joy’s relationship with wedding photography wasn’t something he planned. Like many meaningful paths, it emerged naturally over time.
“I’ve been in this industry for over 11 years now. Never thought this was going to be my passion. Now, I cannot imagine another way of living.”
Through travel, connection, and creative exploration, photography became not only his profession, but the lens through which he experiences the world.
“This profession has taken me places I could have never imagined and connected me with people I would likely have never crossed paths with otherwise.”
Rather than limiting himself to a single visual identity, Joy adapts to the emotional rhythm of the day.
“I don’t believe I’m defined by one style,” he says. “Throughout a wedding day, I become many different photographers.”
There are moments when he steps back completely, working instinctively in a documentary manner — observing quietly as events unfold naturally. Then there are moments when creative direction becomes essential, shaped by light, architecture, and atmosphere.
“My approach leans toward editorial and fashion — refined, composed, and thoughtfully directed — yet always searching for something slightly unexpected.”
Underlying everything is a subtle cinematic influence.
There’s a cinematic undercurrent running through everything I create. It shapes how I see light, movement, and emotion.
Joy’s approach to equipment reflects the same philosophy — balance.
His primary digital system includes the Canon R5, paired most often with a 24–70mm and an 85mm lens.
“That range feels honest to me — close enough to feel intimate, restrained enough to stay elegant.”
Film photography plays an equally important role.
“Film is not an accessory; it’s an essential part of how I work. It slows me down. It forces intention.”
His Contax G2 and Contax T2 cameras allow him to introduce softness, texture, and emotional depth that digital alone cannot replicate.
He also incorporates aerial perspective using a DJI Mini Pro drone when landscapes call for scale and context.
For Joy, editing is not a technical step — it’s part of the creative process itself.
“Post-processing is where the work breathes again.”
Rather than relying on presets, he builds every color palette individually, responding to the emotional tone of the wedding.
“I study the light, the location, and the mood of the couple. Every preview is crafted from scratch.”
Technology supports efficiency, but never replaces artistic intention.
“I personally review every image. That final pass is where precision and personality come back in.”
His goal is always the same: imagery that feels cinematic, honest, and timeless.
What Joy values most about photography extends far beyond visual creation.
“It’s about being invited into people’s lives — even if just for a brief moment — and witnessing who they truly are.”
These connections often last long after the wedding itself.
Some of my closest friends today started as clients.
Through photography, he has explored more than twenty countries — experiences that have shaped not only his work, but his perspective.
“They’ve shaped not only my work, but the person I’ve become.”
Joy’s process begins long before the wedding day.
“I need to truly know them. I can’t do my best work without understanding who they are.”
Through thoughtful questionnaires, video calls, and shared creative exploration, he builds relationships that allow for authenticity and trust.
One of his favorite questions reveals more than couples expect.
“What would you do if you encountered a friendly alien?”
“It sounds absurd,” he says, “but it reveals imagination, humor, instinct. It opens the door to something real.”
This trust transforms his role.
“I don’t want to feel like a vendor. I prefer to feel like a trusted friend.”
Flexibility is central to Joy’s philosophy.
“Every couple is different — different cultures, different timelines, different expectations.”
He begins with a clear framework, then personalizes each proposal to reflect the couple’s unique vision.
“Structure gives clarity. Customization gives meaning.”
Joy’s advice is simple, but powerful.
“Stay present, and love each other. That’s it.”
He believes the most meaningful images emerge when couples allow themselves to experience the day fully, without overthinking or performance.
The best images don’t come from overthinking. They come from presence and emotion.
Destination weddings are central to Joy’s work, with certain places holding special significance.
“Italy, especially Tuscany, is one of them. The light, the landscapes, the history — there’s something timeless there.”
Bali has also left a lasting impression.
“The raw nature, the spirituality, the energy — photographing there feels immersive, almost meditative.”
Each destination influences his perspective, expanding the emotional and visual vocabulary he brings to every wedding.
