Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Moses Slovatizki. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Moses, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

In 2023, I had the honor of capturing images globally for the Associated French Press, and one of the most meaningful assignments of my career took place in Lahaina and Kula, Maui. Being there in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires was not just about photography—it was about bearing witness. Entire communities were forever changed, and through my lens, I felt the responsibility to document not only the destruction but also the resilience, grief, and unity of the people who called these places home. These weren’t just photographs; they were pieces of history, moments that needed to be remembered so the world could understand the weight of what had been lost and the strength of those beginning to rebuild.

Capturing these images reminded me why photography is so much more than creating beautiful pictures—it’s about telling stories that matter. For AFP, my role was to create a visual record that would stand as truth for generations to come, so that what happened in Lahaina and Kula wouldn’t fade into silence. Every frame carried meaning: a family holding onto each other, a burned-out street that was once full of life, a quiet moment of reflection against the backdrop of devastation. These were moments that belonged not just to the people of Maui, but to history itself. And being trusted to document them reinforced why I do what I do—because photography has the power to keep memory alive.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

About Moses & Portraits San Diego
My Story
Photography has always been more than a career for me—it’s been a calling. What began as a fascination with light, people, and fleeting moments has grown into a lifelong journey of storytelling through images. Over the years, that journey has taken me across the globe, from capturing world-class surfers for international magazines to documenting historic events for the Associated French Press in 2023, including the heartbreaking wildfires in Lahaina and Kula. These experiences have taught me that photography is about more than beautiful images—it’s about preserving history, emotion, and truth.

When I founded Portraits San Diego, I brought that same passion for authenticity into the world of wedding and portrait photography. Whether I’m capturing a quiet exchange of vows on the cliffs of La Jolla, a family laughing together in Balboa Park, or a milestone celebration in Rancho Santa Fe, my goal remains the same: to create timeless, emotional imagery that reflects the heart of the moment.

Why Portraits San Diego
At Portraits San Diego, every client matters. I believe photography is one of the most meaningful investments you can make, because it preserves the moments you’ll cherish long after the day has passed. My approach combines refined artistry with a client-first philosophy—I want every session to feel effortless, natural, and true to you.

I specialize in:

Wedding Photography – From intimate elopements to grand celebrations, I capture love stories with elegance and emotion.

Engagement Sessions – The perfect way to celebrate your journey before the wedding day.

Family Portraits – Genuine, timeless portraits you’ll treasure for generations.

Event Photography – From corporate gatherings to personal milestones, I document every detail with care.

Beyond these, I continue to collaborate with surf companies and international magazines, blending my love of adventure with a deep respect for the artistry of the sport. That balance—between personal moments and global stories—is what shapes my unique perspective behind the camera.

Credentials & Experience
One of the things I’m most proud of is being recognized as an M. Photog. (Master Photographer)—a distinction earned through years of dedication to both the craft and the art of photography. It’s a mark of technical excellence, but to me, it represents something deeper: a lifelong commitment to learning, growing, and refining my ability to tell stories through imagery.

My work has been featured across surf magazines and global campaigns, and I’ve collaborated with numerous brands that trusted me to bring their vision to life. On the other side of my career, covering historic events such as the Lahaina and Kula wildfires showed me the profound responsibility that comes with photography. Whether it’s documenting joy, resilience, or tragedy, I approach each assignment with respect and care.

What Sets Me Apart
There are many talented photographers in San Diego, but I believe what sets me apart is the way I combine global perspective with personal connection. I’ve photographed surfers riding waves in Tahiti, couples exchanging vows under San Diego’s sunsets, and families creating memories in their own backyards. No matter the setting, I approach each session with the same dedication: to listen, to connect, and to create imagery that feels genuine and lasting.

Clients often tell me they appreciate how comfortable I make them feel in front of the camera. That comfort translates into photographs that are natural, not posed—images that capture who you are, not just how you look. My use of natural light and portable studio lighting allows me to adapt to any environment, ensuring your photographs are always refined and professional without losing their authenticity.

What You Can Expect
When you choose Portraits San Diego, you’re choosing more than just a photographer—you’re choosing a partner who will be there to guide you every step of the way. From planning your session to delivering your final images, my process is designed to be seamless and stress-free.

You can expect:

Clear communication and guidance before, during, and after your session.

A tailored approach that reflects your personality, style, and story.

Professional editing and retouching that enhances your images without over-processing.

A collection of photographs that not only look beautiful but also carry meaning.

A Final Word
Looking back at my journey—from surf magazines to weddings, from global news coverage to intimate family portraits—I feel grateful for the path photography has taken me on. But more than the places I’ve been or the credentials I’ve earned, what matters most is the people I’ve had the honor to photograph. Every client brings a unique story, and every story deserves to be told with care.

At the end of the day, Portraits San Diego isn’t just about images. It’s about love, family, history, and the little moments that matter most. It’s about creating photographs that feel alive every time you revisit them.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

The Professional Photographers of America (PPA) is an incredible resource for anyone in photography. They’ve built a huge community that’s all about helping photographers grow, not just in their craft, but in their businesses too. With PPA you get access to education, certifications, legal tools, and business support that really make a difference. It’s not just about taking better photos—it’s about learning how to run a stronger, more sustainable business as a photographer.

One of the things I love about PPA is that they also have local and state affiliates. These groups are where the connections really happen. You can meet other photographers in your area, attend workshops, and learn from people who actually understand the challenges of working where you live. Being part of a local affiliate makes it feel less like you’re figuring things out on your own and more like you’re part of a community that wants to see you succeed.

Another big benefit is the amount of resources right at your fingertips. Whether it’s online training, mentorship, or competitions that push you to grow as an artist, PPA gives you opportunities to improve in every direction. Between the big network and the local support, it’s one of the best ways I know for photographers to stay inspired, keep learning, and build a career that lasts.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding part of being a creative is knowing that I get to capture moments that actually mean something to people. A photo isn’t just a picture—it can be a memory, a feeling, or even a piece of someone’s story that gets passed down for years. Being trusted with that responsibility is something I don’t take lightly, and it’s honestly what keeps me inspired.

I also love how this work pushes me to keep growing. Every shoot is different—different people, different light, different emotions—and that keeps me on my toes. It’s not a job that ever feels repetitive or boring. There’s always a new challenge, and with each one, I feel like I get a little better at telling stories through my camera.

At the end of the day, though, what makes it truly rewarding is seeing the reaction when someone looks at an image and feels connected to it. That moment where they see themselves, their family, or their love reflected back—it’s the reminder of why I do what I do. That connection is everything.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://PortraitsSanDiego.com
• Instagram: @portraitssandiego
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PortraitsSanDiego/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moses-slovatizki-a111361a7/
• Youtube: portraitssandiego
• Other: Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/PortraitsSanDiego/