Close Friends, Bold Moments: Shooting with @mcm_xoxo

Instagram @mcm_xoxo

Yuli isn’t just a frequent collaborator—she’s a close friend and someone I deeply respect. Beyond the camera, she’s a hardworking mom, a consistent presence in the gym, and a true example of balance and discipline. Our bond goes way beyond photography, which makes every shoot with her an extension of that connection.

When you shoot with Yuli, expect full energy. She moves fast, stays animated, and if you pause for too long, she’ll start dancing or get distracted—classic friend behavior. But when it’s time to get serious, she shows up. She knows how to switch gears and deliver strong, focused moments.

What makes Yuli so unique to photograph is how she treats her body—with intention and respect. Her physique, especially her back and muscle tone, is incredible to work with. Her form is striking, and her vibe always brings a boost to any set.

This session was another fun, fast-paced adventure. My goal with Yuli is always the same: capture that electric smile and her sculpted strength in a way that feels authentic to her. And if you’ve seen her Instagram, you already know—she’s in the gym 24/7.

We’ll definitely be shooting again soon. Always an adventure, always worth it.

Camera Setup

• Body: Canon 6D

• Lenses: Sigma 35mm f/1.4, Canon 70-200mm f/2.8

This entire set was shot using natural light, primarily through large windows that provided consistent, soft illumination throughout the session. For the black and white frames, I used a simple aluminum panel to bounce light and add subtle fill, helping to sculpt the shadows without introducing artificial sources.

With the lighting already balanced, the session allowed me to focus entirely on the model—her presence, her movement, and the composition of each frame. No distractions, no overcomplication—just clean, intentional portrait work.