What is your most memorable wedding?
Ross & Chloe. They made the whole day so memorable by having their personalities shine through their wedding. There were endless personal touches, her dress was handmade by her family, they literally tied the knot during the ceremony and they even had the most well behaved (furry) ring bearer. To this day I still reminisce about the wedding with them both.
Describe your style in 5 adjectives.
Natural. Happy. Raw.
What about your business are you most proud of?
That I've had couples base their day around when I'm available. They wanted to make sure that they could have me as their photographer over where they would have their wedding! That was a true highlight for me since starting my business.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
It's your day, so have it your way. I completely understand that the B&G's families want to get involved and pitch their own ideas. But I've heard some horror stories over how couples ended up doing the day how other wanted and they've regretted it since. At the end of the day, it's the two of you getting married, no one else, just you two. Do it exactly how you want.
What is your favourite personal touch you have seen at a wedding?
During the speeches, the Daniella's Dad gave her a gift. He had managed to restore an old photo of them both from when she was younger. The photo had been beautifully framed and he presented it to her during his speech. I'm not ashamed to say it, but I was in tears to when that happened. There wasn't a dry eye in the house and it was just the most amazing moment I've seen between the Bride and her Dad.
Describe your typical process with a couple.
I always like to get to know my couples, even just a little bit before they book me. I think it's really important that the couple and photographer can get along great. After all, the photographer is the one wedding vendor that you'll spend most of your wedding day with!
After booking, I like to visit the venue with my couple. See where everything will take place, see the best spots for taking photos on the day, see if they have any inspiration for what photos they might like too!
I keep in contact with all of my couples on the run up to their big day! I like to let them know that I'm always there for any kind of help if they need me. A little bit of reassurance can go a long way!
What is the No. 1 photo that you think every couple should take?
An under the veil shot. When I've suggested it at weddings to my couples, they look at me like I'm crazy, but some of the best shots I've ever gotten have been under the veil! It helps the couple get close, and it in a way creates a cover between them and the outside world. If a couple are ever feeling shy having their photos taken, I always get the veil over them. Works every time!
What do you recommend for a rainy day wedding?
Enjoy it! At the end of the day, the one thing you can't control is the weather. As long as you have some umbrellas on hand (which I always do!), you can get some amazing shots in the rain! Just because it's raining, it doesn't mean it has to put a damper on the day.
Describe how you got into photography.
Pure luck! I will admit, I was never into photography when I was younger. I always had an artistic streak, but it was more to do with drawing and painting. I was told once to take a photo of what I would paint instead. I slowly got to see what was so fascinating about a camera. I really got to see another side of how a photograph is taken. From then on, I was hooked and have never looked back since!