Meet Mantas Kubilinskas

We recently connected with Mantas Kubilinskas and have shared our conversation below.

Mantas, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
Developing confidence and self-esteem as a photographer has been a wild and wonderful journey. Picture this: I started with a camera that seemed more complicated than assembling IKEA furniture blindfolded! But with every click, every blurry mess, and every accidental masterpiece, I learned to embrace the chaos.

I remember my first photoshoot with actual people (not just my very patient cat). I was sweating more than an ice cube in the Sahara! But guess what? People loved the photos because they were candid. That’s when it hit me: confidence isn’t about being perfect; it’s about loving and turning imperfections into art.

I also made it a rule to do one crazy, out-of-the-box monthly photoshoot. Think underwater tea parties, neon paint explosions, or even a shoot with a troupe of dancing llamas (okay, that last one is still on my bucket list). These fun experiments boosted my creativity and showed me I could handle anything with a grin and a camera.

So, in a nutshell, confidence and self-esteem came from embracing the messy, magical process, daring to be different, and cheering myself on like a rockstar. And honestly? It’s been the best adventure ever!

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Hello, I’m Mantas, a wedding photographer based in the vibrant heart of Washington, DC. My specialty is capturing real moments that weave together to tell your unique love story. With a refined European flair, I blend fine art and documentary photography to preserve every precious moment of your special day beautifully and timelessly.

What excites me most about wedding photography is the opportunity to capture the genuine emotions and intimate connections that make each wedding extraordinary. There’s something magical about those candid, unposed moments—the laughter, the tears, the joy—that truly reflect the essence of your celebration. My approach is about creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, allowing you and your loved ones to immerse yourselves in the joy of the day while I discreetly move through the event, ensuring no precious moment goes unnoticed.

One of the most memorable aspects of my work is the ability to combine artistry and storytelling. I aim to provide you with a collection of photographs that document your wedding day and encapsulate the love and connection you share. This dedication to capturing the essence of your love story with a touch of European elegance sets my photography apart.

I am thrilled to announce that I am expanding my services to include intimate elopements and destination weddings. Whether you’re planning a cozy gathering or a grand celebration, I am dedicated to providing exceptional service and a personalized experience. From our initial consultation to the final delivery of your beautifully crafted images, I work closely with you to understand your vision and create a customized photography package that perfectly suits your needs.

If you’re searching for a wedding photographer in Washington, DC, who can capture the essence of your love story with elegance and sophistication, I would be honored to be a part of your special day. Get in touch with me today, and together, let’s create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

Thank you for allowing me to share my story and my passion for wedding photography. I look forward to capturing many more beautiful love stories in the future.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Let’s examine the three key ingredients that made my journey as a wedding photographer an adventure worth taking!

1. An Eye for the Unseen
Imagine being a treasure hunter, but instead of gold, you’re looking for those hidden gems of emotion and connection. Developing an eye for the unseen moments—the stolen glances, the quiet tears, the spontaneous laughter—has been crucial. It’s like having a superpower! My advice? Practice mindfulness. Slow down and observe the world around you. Spend time people-watching (yes, it’s legit for photographers!). The more you tune into the subtleties of human interaction, the more those magical moments will reveal themselves to you.

2. The Art of Storytelling
Think of yourself as a visual bard, weaving tales with your camera. Each wedding is a unique story; your job is to capture it so future generations will feel like they were there. My tip for budding photographers? Dive into other forms of storytelling. Read novels, watch films, study paintings. Pay attention to how stories unfold, and emotions are conveyed, then bring that understanding to your photography. And remember, every great story has moments of calm and chaos—embrace both, and you’ll be prepared for any situation!

3. People Skills with a Dash of Charm
Weddings are a whirlwind of emotions and personalities. Connecting with people, making them feel at ease, and sometimes even playing therapist is a game-changer. You must be as comfortable directing a large group as capturing a quiet, intimate moment. For those starting, I suggest stepping out of your comfort zone. Attend social events, talk with strangers, and improve your listening skills. And don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of charm and humor into your interactions—laughter is the best icebreaker!

So, for all you aspiring photographers out there, keep your eyes wide open, hone your storytelling craft, and never underestimate the power of a friendly smile. A smile can change the entire atmosphere of a shoot, making everyone more comfortable and open. Embrace the journey with a playful spirit and a confident heart, and you’ll find that every click of the shutter brings you closer to capturing the extraordinary in the ordinary. Happy snapping!

As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
“The Digital Photography Book: The Step-by-step Secrets for How to Make Your Photos Look Like the Pros!” by Scott Kelby has been instrumental in my development as a photographer. The book’s insights on lighting taught me how to create magical, soft light conditions. Kelby’s composition techniques, like the rule of thirds and leading lines, have enhanced the visual appeal of my photos. His practical advice on post-processing in Photoshop and Lightroom has helped me polish my images professionally. Lastly, Kelby’s fun and accessible teaching style keeps me motivated and passionate about photography.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Profile picture by: Elliott O’Donovan

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