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Leandro Bulzzano

Photographer

Leandro Bulzzano

,

Location
Mexico City, Mexico
Contact

Let's start with getting to know a bit more about yourself and your background.

I'm originally Argentinean and arrived in Mexico about four years ago. I used to live in Patagonia, where I started experimenting with landscape photography. I didn't go to school or college for it—everything I know now has been self-taught.

When I moved to Tulum in 2018, I began to work with hotels and marketing teams in the fashion industry. I grew more curious about hospitality and lifestyle photography. And this was heightened when I met my partner, an architect, three years ago. With him, I could read architecture better and took design more seriously.

I strategically took on projects to align with this new interest. Initially, I did some for free to build up my portfolio. But slowly people started noticing my work and would reach out to me. In 2021, we moved to Mexico City, where I had the chance to meet even more interior designers and architects who introduced me to new projects. And now, here I am!

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Before moving to Mexico City, how did you go about finding those projects? 

I essentially reached out to people whose work I liked. I used to look primarily on Instagram for projects in Tulum that were aligned with my personal style. Some seemed really interesting in terms of design, so I honed in on them because I realized that if I simply put myself out there, more people will find me and reach out to me—which they did.

A large part is also energetic. I'll put it out into the universe, and somehow I'll end up working with many artists and designers just because I'm in the right place at the right time, meeting the right people.

When was the exact moment that you knew photography was what you wanted to do full-time?

When I started, it was more for economic needs. When I came to Tulum, I didn't speak English at all, although, now I'm learning. But hotels will often require that you speak English. I had good friends who are also photographers, and they were the ones who pushed me to take it more seriously. I developed more confidence in Tulum, knowing that I was doing a good job because people were receptive to my work, and they were really nice about it.

I realized this was it for me.


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How did you develop your style, and how has it transformed from when you first started?

My style has significantly changed. I mostly look for inspiration on Instagram. When I see things on there, I often want to recreate them in my own style. It's only in the last two years that I found my style, but it's a work in progress. I'll always learn new techniques as long as I work, so it's a continuous process.

I enjoy discovering photographers whose work inspires and compels me to think about my own. I also look to architecture and design magazines, like AD, for example. It's an excellent education for me. And in the last year, I bought new camera equipment, which has improved my photos in many ways.

What were you using before, and what type of camera do you have now?

Before, I used a Nikon D7000 with a 35mm fixed lens. It was semi-professional. But I've swapped it out for a Canon EOS 6D with a 50 mm f/1.4 lens, which I absolutely love.

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You mentioned that there are other photographers whom you admire. Who are some of the people you look to for inspiration?

Right now, my biggest inspiration is Fernando Marroquin in Mexico City. And also Colin King. He inspired me to play with shadows, and I greatly admire his work. He’s someone I would love to collaborate with someday.

Maybe soon enough! What do you think makes a good photographer?

Good question. A photo is more than just a high-quality image. The photographer must clearly understand what they capture to tell a story. There has to be context to it. Is it to sell, or is it to make you feel something?

For example, when working with hotels, photos should provoke a sensation to make you want to go there. And that can be achieved in different ways.

What has been your favorite hotel to photograph so far?

La Valise Tulum. It was a dream for me because it was one of my favourite places when I came to Tulum. And for the past year and a half, I've been the official photographer of the hotel, which I'm super proud of.

I must have manifested it.

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What is your advice for anyone looking to get into photography?

Do not fear it. And experiment—A LOT. You shouldn't be afraid to experiment and try new techniques. Some of my friends ask for technical advice, and they get too lost in that instead of simply taking pictures.

You'll develop different styles in different environments; this is how I learned and understood the craft more. I play around with all the buttons on the camera and take many photos.

Some photographers emphasize the editing process, but other photographers try to minimize that. How much importance do you give to editing?

My work process involves minimizing the need to edit later. I focus on the moment, ensuring my camera settings are good before shooting. It’s better to try fixing the details in the moment than to edit it later. In the beginning, I tried to work a lot on editing, and I was overcharging clients, but now my style is more natural and reflects the realness of the moment. I much prefer when it’s a bit more raw—that's when you really get a feel of the place.

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If you had to pick, what is your favorite type of photography, given everything you do? 

Lifestyle, for sure. Half the time, I work with a wide lens, but when I’m taking photos of a space, like interiors, for hotels especially, I show details. The second part of the work is taking my 50 mm lens and focusing on those beautiful details of what I like.

What are some of the best places you’ve traveled to and want to visit?

I love San Miguel in Mexico. I love that place. I would also really like to work in Italy and hotels in Tuscany. Or Amalfi Coast. I love the style there.

Maybe France.

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What’s next for you?

I’ve started working with a new hotel group–Habitas. Working with hotel groups that allow me to travel to beautiful destinations makes me so happy.

Boutique hotels make up most of my clients and bring together hospitality, design, and lifestyle, so it’s right up my street. It’s the best kind of client for me.

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What's in your suitcase? 

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Photographer

Leandro Bulzzano

,

Location
Mexico City, Mexico
Contact

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