Meet Mariajose Morillo

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mariajose Morillo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mariajose, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand is my family, especially my kids. They are my biggest inspiration and motivation. Everything I do is for them, and their love and support drive me to strive for excellence every day.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is a blend of passion, creativity, and dedication, aimed at capturing the raw moments and telling compelling visual stories. What sets me apart is my unique approach to photography, which combines technical skill with an intuitive understanding of my subjects. I’m most proud of the connections I create through my work and the joy I bring to my clients by preserving their special moments in a way that feels authentic and timeless.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a journey filled with both triumphs and challenges. It wasn’t easy, but my passion for photography and my desire to continuously improve kept me going. I faced numerous obstacles, from honing my skills to building a client base, but each challenge taught me valuable lessons. I learned the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and maintaining a clear vision of my goals.

One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is the value of community and support. My family, especially my kids, are my biggest motivation. My mom’s unwavering belief in me has been a constant source of strength.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that my work is driven by a genuine love and passion for what I do and a deep commitment to my clients. I strive to create beautiful, meaningful art that not only captures moments but also evokes emotions and tells a story. My journey is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and the support of loved ones.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d make sure they had an unforgettable experience filled with the best local spots for food, drinks, and fun. Here’s a little itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Breakfast: Start with a delicious brunch at a cozy local café known for its amazing pancakes and fresh coffee like Benny on the beach in lakeworth.
Afternoon: Visit a nearby botanical garden or park to unwind and enjoy nature. Maybe the palm beach zoo which is a great place to visit.
Evening: Dinner at a renowned seafood restaurant by the waterfront, enjoying fresh catch and stunning views like E.R Bradley’s in Palm Beach

Day 2:
Morning: Explore a local art museum or gallery showcasing both contemporary and classic works. One of my favorites is the Norton Art Museum
Lunch: Grab a bite at a trendy food market with diverse cuisine options like Old Key Lime House.
Afternoon: Stroll through a historic district, taking in the architecture and stopping by boutique shops.
Evening: Attend a live music performance at City Place in Palm Beach that’s open to the public.

Day 3:
Morning: Head out for a hiking adventure in a nearby national park or nature reserve like Riverbend Park in Jupiter
Lunch: there’s tables and great shady spots at Riverbend to picnic at.
Afternoon: Visit a local winery or brewery one of my favorites is a winery in downtown west Palm called The Blind Monk.
Evening: Enjoy a laid-back dinner

Day 4: Morning to Afternoon: Spend the day at the best local beach, swimming, sunbathing, and maybe even trying some water sports. Lakeworth beach is one of my favorites
Lunch: Beachside café with fresh salads and seafood. There’s some options next to the beach to pick from.
Evening: Sunset cocktails at a beach bar followed by a seafood feast. My favorite is The River House.

Day 5:
Morning: Visit the downtown area, exploring its vibrant street art and murals.
Lunch: Eat at a bustling downtown bistro with a great view of the cityscape. RH is the best options for food and views.
Afternoon: Visit a local history museum or cultural center.
Evening: Dinner at a chic rooftop restaurant, followed by a night out at a lively bar or nightclub.

Day 6: Shopping and Relaxation

Morning: Shopping at a popular local market or Palm Beach Outlet mall,
Lunch: Light lunch at a charming deli or café.
Afternoon: Spa afternoon with massages and relaxation at the Eau Spa Resort
Evening: Casual dinner at a local pizzeria or taco joint.

Day 7:
Morning: A leisurely breakfast at a favorite local diner. Probably Bennys on the beach again.
Afternoon: Take a scenic drive to a nearby landmark or viewpoint for one last photo op. Jupiter lighthouse is pretty cool.
Lunch: Farewell lunch at a beloved local eatery.
Evening: Relaxing evening at home or a quiet spot, reminiscing about the week over a bottle of wine.

Throughout the week, we’d encounter interesting and exciting people – from talented local artists and musicians to passionate chefs and friendly locals who add to the charm of the area. This itinerary would ensure my friend gets a taste of everything that makes this place special.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
In addition to my family, I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my mom. She has always believed in me, offering unwavering support, encouragement, and love throughout my journey. Her faith in my abilities has been a cornerstone of my success, and I am deeply grateful for everything she has done for me. I also want to thank my mentor and friend, Sal Sued. Sal has been instrumental in my growth, offering invaluable guidance and support. He saw my potential and motivated me to pursue something out of my photography. His mentorship has shaped my journey, and I am incredibly grateful for his friendship and wisdom

Website: Mariajosephoto.com

Instagram: @mariajosephotography_

Image Credits
Mariajosephoto.com @mariajosephotography_