Tell us a little bit about yourself, your education, you first job maybe, and how did you start photography?
Hi, I’m Jaja Samaniego and I’m a wedding photographer. I grew up in Tuguegarao City and I moved here in Manila in 2005 to study Communication Arts in De La Salle University. I’ve been here ever since. Right after college, my friend invited me to an apprenticeship program. Little did I know that it was a wedding photography apprenticeship program. I got accepted and that’s how it all started.
#fotografíaSpotlight © Jaja Samaniego, Wedding Photographer
What do you love most about what you do?
Ever since I started photography, it has changed the way I see the world. Photography is a gift. It made me see beauty in the most ordinary and mundane. Photography has also brought me to a lot of beautiful places where I met amazing people from different walks of life.
What or who inspires you? Where do you find inspiration?
Nature is my greatest inspiration.
What is your favorite camera and lens? Could you tell us a bit about the equipment you use?
It’s so hard to pick a favorite because I feel like they are all my babies. Currently my favorite is of course the Nikon Z7 and the Sigma Art 50mm 1.4.
#fotografíaSpotlight © Jaja Samaniego, Wedding Photographer
Name an interesting place you’ve ever photographed? Travel destination? Favorite road trip perhaps?
I have been to cities across the globe but nothing compares to our very own Batanes. There is something spiritual about that place that when you’re there, you are constantly in awe of nature. Time stops.
What music do you like to listen when you edit images? And can you name artists?
I am a music lover and I listen to a wide variety of genres depending on my mood. I’m currently listening to Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major as I type this. When I need to focus, I turn to classical, trip hop or downtempo music. I love listening to artists like Bonobo and Tycho when I edit my images.
What is your dream photo shoot, dream photo assignment?
My ultimate dream is to be able to shoot Barack and Michelle Obama. I want to take honest portraits of them. It’s my greatest dream to shoot meaningful people who have created a huge impact in our society.
#fotografíaSpotlight © Jaja Samaniego, Wedding Photographer
Name atleast 2-3 Filipino photographers you look up to?
Xyra Bacani
Shaira Luna
Do you ever get burned out? If yes, what helps you get back into the creative process?
Of course! I disconnect from social media and go to the beach.
Non-photography related, any other hobbies you love to do?
Since ECQ started, I started learning new things. I am currently honing my graphic design skills as well as video editing. I am also into plants and chairs.
#fotografíaSpotlight © Jaja Samaniego, Wedding Photographer
What advice would you give to someone starting out?
You have nothing to lose. Be who you are and don’t be afraid to express yourself. Only listen to people you trust.
Any photography project or discipline would you like to do after the enhanced community quarantine?
I just miss shooting weddings!
Any message to fellow creatives during the pandemic?
Innovation happens in times of crisis. This pandemic is an opportunity for us to explore and learn new things and think outside of the box.
#fotografíaSpotlight All images © Jaja Samaniego and used with permission. To see more of her work, you may visit her website and follow her Instagram.