Meet José Rodriguez
Beyond the camera, José is also a graphic designer, creating campaign visuals, email marketing, and social content for brands — a background that shapes how he thinks about composition, color, and story in his photography as well.
As a bar mitzvah and quinceañera photographer, José is the only member of the team who specializes in both celebrations — bringing a real understanding of the traditions, energy, and family moments that make each one unique.
He learned the craft over more than six years working alongside Jack Hartzman, the owner of WTA Photo, and the rest of the team, including Alison Tremblay, Toby Angel, and his brother, Puerto Rican photographer Ricardo Reyes. José is of Cuban heritage and fluent in Spanish — English is his first language, though he is equally at home working with families in either.
Raised in Rockville, Maryland and a graduate of Wootton High School, José holds three degrees: an associate’s from Montgomery College, a bachelor’s from the University of Maryland in communication, digital media, and visual arts, and a master’s from the University of Baltimore in integrated design.
Photography Approach
I believe the best event photography begins long before the camera comes out. By connecting before your celebration, learning what matters most to you, and arriving early with a thoughtful plan, I can focus on creating images that feel personal, natural, and true to your day. My goal is for you to feel comfortable, supported, and confident that your memories are in good hands.
Frequently Asked Questions
A few of the questions families and couples ask most, and how I approach photographing your celebration.
Mitzvah FAQ
How early do you arrive at a Bar or Bat Mitzvah?
I typically arrive 45 minutes to one hour before my scheduled coverage begins. This gives me time to walk through the venue, look for the best lighting and photo locations, review the room setup, plan where to photograph family portraits, and create a plan for the day based on our phone call and email conversations. Arriving early also allows me to photograph important details, such as the sign-in board, centerpieces, and personalized touches before guests arrive.
Will we talk before the event?
Absolutely. I like to schedule a planning call at least a month before the mitzvah. It is a chance for me to learn about your child, the family dynamics, the event schedule, important traditions, and the photos that matter most to you. It also gives you an opportunity to ask questions and feel comfortable knowing that I am prepared to document the celebration thoughtfully.
Can we request specific family photographs?
Yes. Before the event, I will ask for a list of must-have family groupings and any important guests you would like photographed. Having this information in advance helps the formal photos move smoothly, so your family can spend less time organizing people and more time celebrating.
Do you photograph both meaningful moments and candid moments?
Yes. My goal is to tell the complete story of the mitzvah, from portraits and family photos to the energy of the celebration. I capture the meaningful details, traditions, speeches, hora, dancing, reactions, and candid interactions that help paint that story.
What should my child expect during portraits?
During our planning call beforehand, I like to start by learning about your child, what they are like, whether they enjoy having their photo taken, and what helps them feel most comfortable. This gives me a better sense of how to approach and respond to them based on their personality. I consider myself a patient person, and I keep portraits relaxed, encouraging, and efficient. I will provide simple direction when needed while allowing space for natural expressions, confidence, and your child's personality to come through.
Do you offer albums?
My team includes a full time production staff dedicated to the quality control of my images and beautiful finished albums that are the extension of the creativity I create for your family. The albums I offer are handcrafted in Greece and unlike anyone else’s in the area (except my team of course).
Which local synagogues do you photograph at?
I regularly photograph bar and bat mitzvahs at synagogues throughout the Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia area — from Washington Hebrew and Adas Israel to congregations across Montgomery County, Pikesville, and Northern Virginia. See the full list of shuls I work at →
Beforehand, we’ll coordinate the timing and which family members will be there. I usually start with portraits of your child on the bimah, then add parents, siblings, and extended family — including shots with and without the tallit and holding the Torah. I also arrive early to scout the lighting and best spots so we make the most of our time in the sanctuary.
Wedding FAQ
How early do you arrive on the wedding day?
I generally arrive 45 minutes to one hour early so I can begin the day prepared and calm. I use that time to photograph details, assess available light, identify portrait locations, meet key vendors when possible, and confirm that the schedule is flowing as planned. This preparation helps me work intentionally rather than reactively once the day begins.
Do you offer a pre-wedding consultation?
Yes. I like to connect with couples at least one month before the wedding for a planning call. We will review your timeline, venue, family-photo list, wedding-party details, must-have images, and any special moments or cultural traditions that are important to you. My goal is for you to feel confident and comfortable before the wedding day arrives.
Why is the planning call important?
Your wedding photographs should feel personal, not like a generic checklist. Our conversation helps me understand your priorities, your relationship, your preferred photography style, and the people and moments that mean the most to you. It also builds trust, so you know I am coming into your day with a clear plan and your best interests in mind.
Can you help us create a photo timeline?
Yes. I am happy to work with you and your planner to create a photography timeline that allows enough time for getting-ready photos, details, family portraits, wedding-party photos, couple portraits, ceremony coverage, and reception moments. A thoughtful timeline keeps the day moving while protecting time for the photographs you will value for years.
Can we give you a shot list?
Definitely. I welcome a list of essential photos, especially family combinations, heirloom items, special decor, and unique moments you want documented. I will make sure those priorities are included while also watching for the natural, unscripted moments that often become the most meaningful images.
Do you offer a casual session before the wedding?
Yes. A casual or engagement session is a great opportunity for us to get to know each other before the wedding day. It gives you time to become comfortable in front of the camera, learn how I guide you during portraits, and experience a relaxed photo session without the pressure or pace of the wedding day.
It also helps me learn more about you as a couple, your personalities, how you naturally interact, and what makes you feel most at ease. By the time your wedding arrives, we are not meeting as strangers; you will already know what to expect, feel more comfortable with me, and be able to focus on enjoying your day together.
What if we feel awkward in front of the camera?
That is completely fine. I offer clear, comfortable direction when needed, while keeping the experience natural and low pressure. My approach is to help you feel present with one another, rather than making the day feel like a long photoshoot.