The moments that stay
We spent last wedding weekend working alongside Che Vivi, and it made us want to continue the conversation. There’s something special about the people entrusted with preserving a celebration: their attention helps shape how we remember it.
We asked the team about instinct, connection, and the photographs that become more meaningful with time.
What’s one moment from last weekend’s wedding that has stayed with you and what drew your attention to it?
Something we hadn’t seen before really caught our attention: during the ceremony in the chapel of La Carriona, all the guests took part in a very special moment—the “blessing of the rings.” It was unique and deeply meaningful; a delightful and novel experience that we were able to capture through our authentic, spontaneous approach.
Couples often tell photographers, “We’re awkward in front of the camera.” What happens in those first few minutes together that helps them feel comfortable? (Even if they don’t choose to have a pre-wedding photoshoot)
I tell the couples I work with that I am the ideal photographer for those who don’t enjoy posing, being in front of a camera, or being told exactly what to do.
It’s possible that, during the first 10 minutes of the session, you might feel a bit unsure—not knowing what to do with your hands or where to look. However, that feeling quickly fades, as my priority is to get to know you well—both as a couple and as individuals. Whether you are romantic, fun-loving, a bit wild, serious, shy, or a mix of all these things, understanding your personalities allows us to approach the session in a spontaneous way. The result is dynamic imagery, far removed from stiff, posed photographs.
Most importantly, we truly want to get to know who you are; that’s why we will never ask you to do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. This ensures that when you look at your photos, you still recognize yourselves.
When you’re photographing the same celebration, what does each of you notice first? Tell us about a moment when your different perspectives surprised you.
As a team of two photographers, we love capturing the same moment from two different perspectives and points of view. For instance, while I—Vivi—focus on capturing the couple’s moments during the ceremony, Javi documents the guests’ reactions, as well as the venue’s architecture and decor. This way, nothing goes unnoticed.
Thanks to my background as an architect, I—Vivi—always ensure that horizon lines remain perfectly straight, while simultaneously placing a strong emphasis on people’s emotions. I am passionate about composing images by carefully balancing light, framing, and emotion.
Complementing this, Javi brings his perspective as a graphic designer; he enjoys playing with diagonal lines, layers, colors, and panoramic views.
These differences add a unique richness to the narrative when it comes to telling the story of a wedding.
Is there a photograph you’ve taken that became unexpectedly important to a couple later on? We’d love to hear its story, if you’re able to share it.
We have several stories! But let us share one with you.
One photograph that deeply moved us—as well as the groom—is the one of Daniel Miranda with his grandmother. It captured a moment of shared laughter while they waited for the rest of the family to gather for a group photo during the cocktail hour.
Since his grandmother is no longer with us, this photo has become one of Dani’s favorites; it keeps the memory of her personality—and the special bond they shared—alive.
(This is one of the photos featured in this interview.)
From everything you’ve witnessed at weddings, what’s one choice couples can make that gives them more room to enjoy the day and allows you to capture that feeling?
It is essential that you trust the team of vendors you hire for your big day. This will allow you to set aside any worries and truly enjoy the day to the fullest.
Regarding photography, we recommend letting your chosen professionals know which specific shots are a must for you. This way, they can focus on capturing those moments, allowing you to enjoy your big day stress-free.
It is also worth noting that we prefer not to intervene or interrupt moments to stage or force photographs; instead, we let the day unfold naturally, capturing events as they happen. We certainly do not like to pull the couple away from the celebration—in fact, quite the opposite.
Years from now, what small detail do you hope your photographs will help someone remember?
May this help you remember how you truly felt that day—to recall the people who were with you, the enjoyment, the weather, the colors—rather than it being something the photographer simply asked you to do for no particular reason.
What feels distinctly “Che Vivi” about the way you work from your first conversation with a couple to the photographs you deliver? Can you share an example of how that approach shapes the experience?
From our very first meeting, we—Vivi and Javi—are entirely at your disposal for whatever you may need. We are fully committed to ensuring that you feel heard, understood, and supported throughout the complex process of planning a wedding and searching for vendors. We are by your side every step of the way.
Getting to know you as a couple is essential to us—discovering your personal tastes and hearing your story. We pay close attention to your vision for your wedding, with the goal of not just meeting, but exceeding your expectations.
For this reason, we are the ones who will personally capture the moments of your big day; we never send anyone else in our place.
We believe in honesty and transparency, and we always deliver on our promises. For instance, in our more than 12 years as wedding photographers, we have never once missed a delivery deadline. This reflects our level of commitment to every couple who hires us. We take our work very seriously.
We are Viviana Calaón and Javier Hinojosa C, a photography duo who do more than just document an event—we capture moments.
We create a fun, relaxed experience for you: we provide guidance, build your confidence, and support you throughout the entire process, step by step, ensuring you feel completely at ease.
LIVE YOUR WEDDING TO THE FULLEST—we’ll DOCUMENT IT WITHOUT INTERFERING.
The result? Fantastic, spontaneous, and natural photos full of movement—exactly as you’ve dreamed.
