Heart behind the lens: Sheila Juan-Catilo

In a world overflowing with digital snapshots and fleeting moments, there are artists like Sheila Juan-Catilo who remind us that photography, at its core, is about storytelling — emotional, intentional and deeply human.

A celebrated lifestyle and portrait photographer, Sheila’s work has become synonymous with authenticity and heart. Whether it is a quiet exchange between family members or a dynamic campaign with renowned personalities, her photographs are more than images — they are heirlooms.

Camera, childhood, calling

Sheila’s love affair with photography began not as a career move, but as a natural extension of who she was. At just nine years old, armed with a humble point-and-shoot film camera gifted by her father, she began documenting family trips, school events and day-to-day moments. But it was her mother, a meticulous documenter of their childhood memories, who quietly planted the seeds of Sheila’s storytelling ethos.

“We had albums and albums of photographs. That built the foundation of how I remember my childhood — and how I now help others preserve theirs,” she reminisced.

From backstage to behind the camera

Before fully embracing photography, Sheila had a dynamic career in media as an ex-deal liaison officer for Unang Hirit. It was intense, fast-paced and often exhausting. “Morning shows aren’t just morning work. It was around-the-clock,” she recalled.

But in the chaos came clarity. One Mother’s Day segment unexpectedly stirred her passion. After snapping behind-the-scenes portraits of hosts with their children — just for fun — she received warm feedback from both the studio and the guests. It was a lightbulb moment.

“I realized, I love this. I love working with women, with children. And I want to keep doing this.”

Accidental first gig

Her career truly kick-started when a photographer canceled last-minute on her sister’s public relations (PR) shoot. With a new digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) in hand, Sheila stepped in. That spontaneous job led to more opportunities, shooting for campaigns with talents like Piolo Pascual and Claudine Barretto, even before they were household names.

Unknown to her, she was already building a portfolio — one that would later open doors to magazines, brands and her own thriving business.

Emotion over perfection

When asked what sets her work apart, Sheila is quick to share her “secret sauce”: emotional response.

“I give my photos a heartbeat,” she said. Her approach is rooted in connection, not just composition.

Before she even lifts the camera, she makes sure to bond with her subjects.

“People come to shoots nervous. Building trust is essential. You’re not just taking their picture; you’re telling their story.”

This emotional integrity is what has made her family portraits especially resonant.

“To the families I photograph, these images are heirlooms. That’s sacred to me.”

Navigating the digital landscape

In today’s world of smartphones and filters, Sheila acknowledged the evolving industry.

“Everyone’s a photographer now — but not everyone knows how to tell a story,” she said.

Rather than viewing phones as competition, she uses them as tools for education. She now conducts mobile photography classes, emphasizing the value of intention, composition and storytelling — regardless of the device.

Balancing life, art, family

Sheila does not believe in the myth of perfect balance.

“It’s about seasons and priorities,” she shared.

As both she and her husband, Jorem Catilo, are photographers, they have learned to divide and conquer using their strengths.

While Jorem focuses on architecture and detail, Sheila captures human connection. Together, they have collaborated on countless projects — including a memorable exhibit for The Peninsula Manila, titled Timeless Filipino. To this day, their early works still hang on the hotel’s walls, a testament to their shared vision and commitment.

Milestones, meaningful projects

Among Sheila’s favorite works is MomPowerment, her first solo exhibit featuring 50 mothers. With simple black-and-white portraits, she highlighted the unique journeys of empowered women — an ode to strength, motherhood and resilience.

Shooting Lea Salonga in her home is another cherished memory.

“No makeup, no glam. Just real. And it was beautiful,” she shared.

Also on her dream list? Leni Robredo, and — one day — her own children’s weddings. “Even in a gown, I know I won’t be able to resist taking photos,” she joked.

Looking ahead: Legacy projects

Now on her 20th year in the industry, Sheila has her sights set on lasting impact. She dreams of publishing a book that helps people document family milestones — passing down the gift of intentional storytelling. She also envisions an exhibit on motherhood, exploring how the journey of being a mom has shaped her craft.

“Motherhood changed how I see families, how I shoot and how I connect. It gave depth to my art.”

To aspiring photographers, her advice is simple: Just shoot. Experience is the best teacher; different is better than good. Do not fear standing out — embrace your unique perspective and never forget the “kurot sa puso” (emotional connection). Let your work mean something.

Sheila is not just a photographer. She is a documentarian of emotion, a custodian of memories and an advocate of stories that matter. Her lens does not just capture images — it captures life.

And in a world that moves faster than we can process, Sheila reminds us of the power of slowing down — and truly seeing.