In a rare moment, lensman Choi Alcabasa faced the cameras in a DAILY TRIBUNE interview on Spotlight recently. The accomplished wedding photographer shared his journey of telling visual stories, capturing the details and emotions between couples.

With over 13 years of experience, Alcabasa described his career as a “lifelong learning process.”

“The interaction between the couple and their parents,” he recalled his favorite moments, adding that it’s rare — especially for fathers — to show vulnerability.

When asked if he ever gets emotional while shooting, Alcabasa admitted, “Yes, tatago behind the camera, pupunas ng luha (Yes, I hide behind the camera, wiping away tears.)”

Another special moment he never wants to miss is the post-ceremony pictorial, when the newlyweds finally breathe and connect.

“Gustong-gusto namin i-capture ’yung biglang tinginan na sila lang ang nagkakaintindihan. Kapag nakita ng viewer, alam nilang love na love nila ang isa’t isa (We love capturing those sudden glances where the couple show how they understand each other. When people see it, they know how much these couples love one another),” he said.

Journey as an artist

Alcabasa’s passion for photography began when camera phones first became a trend. He fondly remembers bringing a film camera to school during high school.

Thirteen years into his career, he acknowledges that it can be draining in the creative sense. To stay refreshed, he takes early-morning bike rides. “Quiet moments help clear my mind,” he said.

This also grounds him in unpredictable situations — like sudden rain during a garden wedding.  He reminds couples that the most important thing is their union, and assures them that he will capture the day meaningfully, no matter what.

He has seen it all

From exhausting preparations and heartfelt vows to funny mishaps, Alcabasa has witnessed countless unforgettable moments. One particularly hilarious wedding in Tagaytay, he related, had the groom forgetting to bring his pants, while their home was in Batangas; luckily, there was a nearby mall.

When asked, “Is there still anything you think you haven’t seen?” he replied, “Wala na po ata (I think there’s nothing left.)” 

Still, he has dreams. “I want to shoot weddings of LGBT couples,” he said. He also hopes to photograph prominent people, like past presidents or those involved in environmental work.

The legacy

Even as wedding photography trends change, Alcabasa advised couples to choose the best photographer within their budget, one whose personality and creative style align with their vision. 

When asked, “If your photo archive had a hidden playlist, what kind of music would it play?” he responded, “The songs of Journey.” These songs are timeless and sentimental, just like the moments he captures. And given the chance to exhibit his work, Alcabasa hopes viewers would be reminded of how a wedding feels — a lovely sentiment that lasts a lifetime.”