Julio Fonyat

Unlike photographing sports, where creating the perfect image can depend on many different scenarios, weddings provide extensive opportunities to perfectly capture a once-in-a lifetime memory. My most popular pieces are often my Portraits. Sometimes intimidating due to their intimacy, taking a more unobtrusive approach while maintaining close attention to detail allows me to connect without compromising comfort. I’m always humbled to share the moments that last a lifetime.

My biggest wish during my work is for the client to have a great experience. I strive to deliver an unforgettable moment that can be kept forever—both in pictures and in memory. I work closely with each client to ensure their experience is fantastic, and exceeds their expectations.

Originally from Brazil, I come from a family of creative minds and beautiful souls. My father and grandfather are renowned photographers and architects; and my mother an avid art collector. As a child I would spend hours looking at their work, dreaming of being a photographer. When I was 15 years old my mother handed down my father’s cameras to me. With his Polaroid and 35mm Leicas, I was able to learn the fundamentals of photography and focus on acquiring technical knowledge before I took on the digital world. Even though most of my equipment today is digital, I still like to shoot 35mm and develop my own film.

In 2002, I moved to San Diego to pursue my dream of being a professional photographer. Along with my vintage cameras, I brought a deep desire to create something different. After I started college, I developed a passion for sports and water photography. From spending hours practicing in the water to attending countless workshops at the renowned Brooks Institute, I worked diligently to gain knowledge and experience. Cultivating my own unique approach to surf photography, I found success in my passion; seeing my work published in some of the most iconic surf magazines in the world.