We recently connected with Ezekiel Dela Cruz and have shared our conversation below.

Ezekiel , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the best or worst investment you’ve made?

The most significant investment I made at the beginning of my career was in a mentorship. As a new business owner, I recognized the importance of learning from someone who had already navigated the challenges I was just starting to face. However, I knew that finding the right mentor was critical. I looked for someone who aligned with my vision for running a photography business—someone whose approach to storytelling, client relationships, and business strategy resonated with my own aspirations.

Before committing to mentorship, I took the time to identify the areas where I struggled most, such as pricing, client communication, and refining my artistic voice. I compiled a list of specific questions and challenges to discuss, ensuring I could make the most of our time together. This level of preparation allowed me to seek out a mentor whose experience in the industry and track record of success made them an invaluable resource for my growth.

The mentorship proved to be transformative. Not only did it accelerate my growth as a wedding photographer, but it also gave me clarity and confidence in how to run my business authentically and efficiently. The lessons I learned about workflow, client care, and building a sustainable brand are principles I still use to this day.

The key takeaway? Investing in mentorship is an investment in yourself and your future. But to make it worthwhile, you must first get clear on your struggles, seek out someone whose expertise aligns with your needs, and approach the experience with focus and intention. The right mentor isn’t just a teacher—they’re a partner in your success.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Ezekiel, and I’m the founder and creative force behind EZKL Photography. I’m a wedding photographer based in Maryland, but my passion for storytelling and capturing love takes me across the world. My journey into photography started with a deep love for preserving moments and emotions—those fleeting, intimate connections that often go unnoticed. What began as a personal passion gradually grew into a profession as I realized the profound joy of helping couples relive their love stories through timeless images.

At EZKL Photography, I specialize in documenting weddings and elopements, with a particular focus on creating imagery that feels real, raw, and timeless. I offer services ranging from full-day wedding coverage to intimate elopement packages. My approach is rooted in storytelling—capturing not just how a day looks but how it feels. I want my clients to look back on their photos and be transported to the joy, love, and magic of those moments.

What sets me apart is my ability to create a seamless balance between artistry and authenticity. I avoid overly staged or robotic poses, opting instead to document genuine, unguarded moments. My editing style leans toward warm, moody tones with a timeless elegance. I’m particularly drawn to a classic black-and-white aesthetic that evokes an “Old Hollywood” vibe, as well as vintage-inspired details that lend a sense of nostalgia to my work.

One of the challenges I help my clients navigate is the overwhelming process of wedding planning. I aim to make their photography experience stress-free and enjoyable by offering clear communication, guidance, and an experience tailored to their unique vision. Whether it’s an extravagant celebration at a grand venue or a quiet elopement in a hidden forest, my goal is to create an environment where couples can be themselves and feel comfortable in front of the camera.

I am most proud of the relationships I’ve built with my clients. Many of them tell me that working with me felt less like hiring a vendor and more like spending time with a trusted friend. That connection allows me to capture their love in a way that feels deeply personal and meaningful.

For anyone considering working with me, here’s what I want you to know: I’m not just here to take pictures—I’m here to tell your story. Your wedding day is one of the most important chapters of your life, and my mission is to preserve it in a way that feels timeless, authentic, and uniquely you.

At EZKL Photography, it’s not just about photos—it’s about creating a legacy of love that you and your loved ones will treasure for generations to come.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

In the early stages of my career as a wedding photographer, I hit a breaking point. Turning my most loved passion into a business seemed like a natural progression, but it quickly became overwhelming. I felt lost, burned out, and defeated, and I ultimately made the difficult decision to step away from the industry.

But in 2021, something shifted. I realized I couldn’t let go of my love for photography—it had always been a part of me. When I decided to return to the industry, I promised myself that this time, I would do things differently. I made a conscious decision to prioritize my passion and protect my creative energy above all else.

I focused on what truly resonated with me: weddings and elopements. These were the moments where I found my deep love for storytelling, capturing raw emotions and the beauty of connection. I also dedicated myself to finding my unique style and sticking to it, even when it wasn’t easy.

At first, attracting the right clients—those who appreciated my vision and trusted my artistry—was a challenge. But through resilience, patience, and unwavering consistency, I started to connect with people who truly valued my work. Today, most of my inquiries come from clients who are not just looking for a photographer but are fans of my art. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know they trust me wholeheartedly and have chosen me for the work I can deliver and the stories I can tell.

This journey has taught me that resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges; it’s about facing them with clarity, learning from them, and staying true to yourself. I’m proud to say that I’ve built a business and a life that honors my love for photography, and I’ve never felt more connected to my craft.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Social media has been the best source of new clients for me, with Instagram and Pinterest leading the way. These platforms allow me to showcase my work, connect with potential clients, and build a community around my photography.

Consistency has been key to my success. I make a conscious effort to create posts that are not only visually compelling but also informative and helpful. Much of my inspiration comes directly from client emails—whether they’re questions, concerns, or feedback. These real-life struggles and topics provide endless ideas for content that’s both relevant and relatable.

By addressing these issues and offering valuable insights, I’ve been able to build trust with my followers. When people feel seen, heard, and supported, they’re more likely to reach out—and that connection often turns into long-term client relationships. Social media isn’t just a marketing tool for me; it’s a way to serve my community and share my passion for photogaphy

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ezklphotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ezkl__photography/
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/ezklphotography/

Image Credits

https://www.instagram.com/doughwanders

for personal photo