Today we’d like to introduce you to Luis Contreras.
Luis , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Luis Contreras, and I am the founder of Kaptura el Momento and co-founder of Kaptura Media, an award-winning audiovisual production company based in Atlanta, Georgia. I came to the United States in 2001, never imagining that I would one day build a career in photography and video.
When I first arrived, my focus was on the medical field. I studied Radiology at Gwinnett Technical College and later Nursing, but I was never able to enter such a competitive industry. My path eventually shifted toward computer technology.
I was raised by a single mother, and to help pay for my tuition, I took on different jobs—one of which happened to be in a photography studio. At the time, I felt they charged a lot for the quality of work they delivered, and I believed I could do better job at a more accessible price without having much experience at this. My mother help me get a professional camera at the time, 5d mark ii and a canon camcorder XL2. Little did I know, I was going to fell in love with this career. I spent eight years running a small studio at a well-known Hispanic flea market, mainly covering quinceañeras, weddings, and social events.
In 2016, I met Paola Camacho, who is now my wife and business partner. She brought years of experience in media and the corporate world. In 2018, we received our greatest blessing—our son, Santiago. His arrival inspired me to rethink the direction of my life. I decided to close the studio and transition toward the corporate and media side of the industry, although I continue to cover social events through Kaptura el Momento.
I later joined the media company MundoNow (formerly Mundo Hispánico), where I gained extensive experience producing reports and branded content for clients like Lala Foods, Ambetter, Oscar Health, and more. In 2021, Paola and I won our first four Southeast Emmy Awards, and over the years I have earned a total of nine Emmy Awards and one Telly Award.
Together, Paola and I decided to divide our work into two brands:
Kaptura el Momento for social event coverage, and Kaptura Media for corporate content and media storytelling.
I have had the opportunity to work with GCPS TV, securing additional independent contracts. I have also worked with Telemundo, Univision, Corporate Events Unlimited, and other clients who have trusted in my dedication, professionalism and quality of work. Building strong partnerships with colleagues across the industry, has contributed extremely to my growth and recognition.
It has been a long but rewarding journey. When I look back, I feel proud of how far I’ve come—and grateful for everything I’ve accomplished. At the same time, I know there is still so much ahead, and I’m excited for the opportunities yet to come.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road hasn’t always been smooth. Like many entrepreneurs, I’ve faced the challenges of navigating an unstable income, wearing multiple hats, and trying to find people who share the same passion and commitment for this craft. Delegating hasn’t always been easy, especially when it comes to trusting others with editing or creative work that represents our name. But despite those challenges, we’ve been blessed with talented, reliable people who have come alongside us at the right moments. Their dedication has helped us deliver our best work and build the strong, supportive team we have today.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a Director, photographer, and storyteller. I specialize in creating impactful visual content for branding corporate content and social event worlds. I’m known for my ability to combine technical skill with a strong sense of emotion, capturing moments, messages, and stories in ways that feel authentic and meaningful. Whether I’m shooting a family celebration or producing a branded video for a national client, my goal is always the same: to tell stories that connect.
I’m most proud of the journey itself. Starting as someone who never imagined working in photography or video, to building two successful businesses alongside my wife. Earning multiple Awards is an incredible honor, but what truly fills me with pride is knowing that my work has made an impact in my community and has opened doors I never expected. I’m also proud of being able to show my son, Santiago, that with faith, discipline, and perseverance, you can create your own path even when it doesn’t look like anyone else’s.
What sets me apart is the combination of my lived experience, work ethic, and the deep personal connection I bring to every project. I didn’t start in film school or a big media company, I learned this craft while trying to pay my tuition as an immigrant working multiple jobs. That journey gave me a different appreciation for storytelling and for the people behind the stories. I approach every shoot with intention, gratitude, and respect. I also believe strongly in delivering high-impact quality without losing the human element. Clients often tell me they feel seen, heard, and understood, and I think that’s why so many trust us with projects that truly matter to them.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me truly happy is being able to do what I love every day. I feel blessed to have found a career that doesn’t feel like work because it’s my passion. I’m also happiest when I’m with my family. Being able to build and run a business alongside my wife, and knowing that one day my son might be part of it too, fills me with purpose.
This career also brings me joy because it has the power to impact people’s lives in meaningful ways. Whether it’s capturing a once-in-a-lifetime moment or creating stories that resonate and inspire. And above all, I’m grateful because God has been good to me and present in every step of my journey. That faith, combined with my family and my passion for meaningful work, is what brings me true happiness.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kapturamedia.com – www.kapturalemomento.com
- Instagram: @kaptura_media – @kapturaelmomento
- Facebook: Kaptura Media – Kaptura el momento
- Youtube: Kaptura Media
