Interview with María Mellado Molina, photographer and CEO of MM Photos
With Maria Mellado Molinaphotographer from Melilla and founder of the studio MM Photoswe explore his professional career, his perspective on the evolution of the Photography in the digital age, and its focus on capturing meaningful moments, especially during the season of communions and sessions with expectant mothers.
-EA You studied photography at the Miguel Marmolejo Art School, right?
-MM Yes, specifically the Higher Degree FP in Photography.
-EA How did you become interested in photography?
-MM Photography has always been present in my life since I was little. My grandfather was fond of taking photos, and on family vacations I was always tasked with capturing memories. So in 2015 I started as a hobbyist and fell in love with the idea of capturing moments and emotions.
-EA How have you seen the evolution of photography, especially with the rise of social networks?
-MM Social networks, especially Instagram, have changed the landscape a lot. Before it was looked down upon a bit, but now they have given visibility to the photographer’s work and have helped us reach more people.
-EA Have you been able to continue working on personal projects in addition to your commercial work?
-MM In the artistic sphere of my career as a photographer, I have chosen to temporarily relegate my personal projects, which are meticulously documented in my notebook of ideas and aspirations. However, I do not rule out the possibility of materializing them in the near future.
Currently, my main focus is on driving the growth and consolidation of MM Photos. Given the intensity of my professional commitment, I have chosen to reserve my moments of rest to disconnect completely, temporarily putting away the phone and camera to dedicate time to my personal well-being.
-EA What type of jobs are the most requested in your studio?
-MM Mainly family sessions and maternity and newborn photos. There is also a lot of demand during the communion season.
-EA How do you handle the human aspect of your work, especially with maternity sessions?
-MM It is important to create a bond of trust with my clients so that they feel comfortable during the sessions. I care about understanding their needs and making them feel safe and protected.
-EA What is the communion season like for you?
-MM The communion season, in my experience, is characterized by a frenetic but rewarding pace. Personally, I greatly enjoy working with children and have been lucky enough to meet very collaborative clients. Since February, I have been immersed in communion sessions that extend until May or April, coinciding with religious ceremonies and all the logistics associated with this type of event.
-EA As a young entrepreneur in Melilla, how do you see the cultural and artistic panorama in the city?
-MM I believe that notable progress has been observed in various aspects of the local cultural landscape. I have had the opportunity to see exhibitions by artists like Lile (@soylile), among others, and I have noticed an increase in the support provided by local establishments. For example, during my own art exhibition titled “Los Siete Pecados,” I received support from Juanma, owner of the Vela Epoque hair salon, who graciously offered me his space to exhibit my work.
Likewise, I have seen how other artists, like you with your fanzines, have been received with enthusiasm by the local community. This type of collaboration and mutual support generates a feedback positive that I predict will continue to strengthen in the future.
– EA What would you say to young people who want to start a business like you in the city?
-MM I believe that success is not limited to pursuing a dream at all costs, but rather establishing solid and realistic foundations to achieve ambitious goals, such as starting your own business. This implies a gradual process of personal and professional development, where the ups and downs inherent to the path must be taken into account. Personally, I have experienced significant growth both professionally and personally by facing challenges and overcoming obstacles. Therefore, I encourage everyone to venture out and take risks, as these experiences provide us with valuable lessons and help us move towards a more promising future. Whether starting a business, seeking excellence in a specific profession or any other goal, it is essential to persevere with dedication and effort, knowing that each attempt brings us one step closer to the desired success.
“In my approach to women’s photography, especially during sessions with expectant mothers, I deeply value the uniqueness and complexity of the maternal experience”
In my approach to women’s photography, especially during sessions with expectant mothers, I deeply value the uniqueness and complexity of the maternal experience. I recognize the extraordinary physical and emotional transformation that motherhood entails, as well as the internal struggles and challenges women face during this period. During sessions, I engage in meaningful conversations with my clients to understand their wants and needs, ensuring the session accurately reflects their identity and vision. This personal connection translates into authentic and emotional images, resulting in a satisfying experience for my clients.
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“During sessions, I immerse myself in conversations with my clients to understand their wants and needs, ensuring the session reflects their identity and vision.”
