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Wedding Photographer Spotlight Interview with Erich McVey

admin — Wed, 08 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

There's a lot of gorgeousness coming your way today with our Photographer Spotlight on wedding photographer Erich McVey. You may have already seen his dreamy photography in top wedding publications and blogs, but if you haven't yet, you certainly will soon as he was recently named one of the 30 rising stars of wedding photography by Rangefinder Magazine. His photos are stunning, impeccably shot eye-candy, and overflowing with luscious color and emotion.

Junebug: What gets you up in the morning?

Erich McVey: Sugar Free Redbull. I can’t function without one to start my day.

Junebug: Describe your wedding photography style in less than 6 adjectives.

Erich McVey: Honest, timeless, romantic, light and soft

Junebug: What makes you give yourself a mental high five?

Erich McVey: There are so many great wedding industry professionals and photographers out there that sometimes it feels like everything has already been done. I high five myself when I feel like I have created something new and original with my photography.

Junebug: Do you shoot film, digital or both?

Erich McVey: I shoot almost entirely medium format film with my Contax 645. I love the look I’m able to create with film and the rich, timeless quality of the images. However, I do use a combination of film and digital at night, when there is limited light available. I have worked really hard to ensure that my film and digital work match up seamlessly, so every shot, no matter the format, looks like my work.

Junebug: You seem to be creative in so many different mediums. What keeps you inspired?

Erich McVey: I still can’t believe that I get to do what I do for a living. I feel like every wedding, photo shoot, or project I’m a part of keeps me inspired because of the environments, visions, and people I’m collaborating with. I also like to stay inspired by challenging myself to explore new mediums and create for just the enjoyment of it. Lately I’ve been shooting a lot of Polaroid film. It’s an entirely different experience from shooting medium format film, and has been a fun growing experience and new way to explore the world around me. I’m pretty sure my wife Amy is sick of always having to carry at least one Polaroid camera in her purse everywhere we go though. :)

Junebug: What do you enjoy about living and working in the Pacific Northwest?

Erich McVey: The beautiful scenery and being close to family. My wife, Amy, and I are both from Oregon and grew up enjoying the outdoors. We’re able to go out and hike, snowboard, wakeboard, kayak, visit the coast, etc. all within an hour drive of our home. We’re also very close with both of our families whom all live in Oregon as well, so we’re able to spend a lot of time with the people we love. Traveling for work is something we’re grateful for and really enjoy, but we’re always happy to come home.

Junebug: Where do you want to shoot next?

Erich McVey: I’m dying to shoot in Italy! I’ve been a few times, and Amy and I spent part of our honeymoon exploring the country, so it has a special place in our hearts. The language, food, and scenery are all so beautiful, and the light in Venice is unlike anywhere else I’ve been. It’s magic. I’m shooting a wedding outside of Rome next December, and I can hardly wait. A year and a half feels a long way off. Hopefully Amy and I can find a reason to visit Italy again before then!

Junebug: Best thank you that you've ever received?

Erich McVey: I don’t think any thank you I’ve received is better than another. There is nothing better than knowing my clients love the photos I worked so hard to capture during their wedding day. I know it sounds cheesy, but I honestly love every thank you card, email, and Facebook post I’ve received from happy clients telling me they love their wedding photos.

Junebug: A tip or two for couples who are looking for their perfect wedding photographer?

Erich McVey: Make sure you click with your photographer. Other than your new husband or wife, your photographer will be the person you spend the most time with on your wedding day, so it’s important that it’s someone who makes you feel comfortable, at ease, and whose company you enjoy.

Every wedding or shoot that a photographer does is different, but as you look through websites and blogs take note of the emotions that you feel when looking at a photographer’s work. If it speaks to you, makes you feel like how you want to feel when you look back on your own wedding day, then you’re on the right track.

Junebug: One thing you'd like every bride and groom to know before their wedding?

Erich McVey: Your wedding day only happens once, and as a recently married guy, I can attest to the fact that the day goes by far too quickly. It’s easy to miss out on moments, forget about details you spent weeks working on before the big day, and feel as though it was all a whirlwind. It’s an incredible whirlwind, but one that definitely leaves you feeling a little dazed at the end of the day. There is just so much to take in! That’s why I believe so firmly in what I do as a wedding photographer. I’m there to capture the moments, the ribbon wrapped around each guest’s napkin, the small locket on your bouquet that was your grandmothers, the moment when your parents are holding hands looking up at you getting married during the ceremony. These moments only happen once and are gone in an instant. Having a wedding photographer you trust, and who works diligently to capture all of these memories and special moments, is one of the best investments you can make for your wedding day. Those fleeting details and moments become photographs that remain for years to come as family memories and heirlooms that last for generations.

Junebug: How has being a wedding photographer made you a stronger photographer over all?

Erich McVey: Being a wedding photographer forces me to think fast, strategically react to changing surroundings, and make educated decisions quickly in order to create the best images possible. During a wedding day I can’t control the environment, schedule, or other details as much as I can during a planned, styled shoot. I have to work to capture moments, styled place settings, ceremony details and portraits all within a tight timeframe and with limited control. It makes me better able to adapt and harness my skills as a photographer in any situation, even when not shooting a wedding.

Junebug: How has witnessing so many weddings impacted your life/outlook?

Erich McVey: I can honestly say that during every single wedding I’ve shot I knew I was documenting real, honest, life-long love. There are so many statistics, news stories and reports on divorce rates and other awful anecdotes about the decline of lasting marriages that it is easy to feel jaded. Photographing so many weddings has shown me that there is more love, more devotion, and more respect for the sanctity of marriage than a lot of statistics and numbers could make us believe. It’s encouraging and uplifting to witness people committing to love.

Junebug: With so much great talent in the wedding industry, can you name five professionals you adore working with right now?

Erich McVey:

PETALOS – Stephanie, the owner and lead designer at PETALOS (a wedding design and floral company working in Oregon, Washington and California), is so creative, driven, and inspirational. Her work is phenomenal and she’s also just plain fun. Amy and I love meeting Stephanie for drinks whenever we have the chance.

Ginny Au – Ginny is a crazy-talented stylist and wedding designer based in Alabama. It’s always a joy to work with her and photograph her beautiful visions come to life. Ginny is styling my photography workshop I’m hosting this October and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with for the three days of shoots we’ll be doing.

Emily Riggs – Emily designs the most beautiful headpieces, veils, and other bridal accessories I’ve ever had the pleasure of photographing. Her pieces are timeless and elegant. I love her style.

Joel Serrato – A super 8 filmmaker based out of California, Joel shoots weddings all over the world. His work has a beautiful, dreamy quality to it that I love. He’s an amazing artist and an even better friend.

Moetic – Moetic filmed my own wedding, and I’ve been lucky enough to work with them since then. They are a great team of fun, creative filmmakers who love telling the story of a wedding day. They have such a cool, signature style that it is easy to see why so many couples make hiring Moetic a top priority when planning their day.

Junebug: Favorite image you've taken lately?

Erich McVey: I really love a shot I took (see below) during a recent editorial shoot for Emily Riggs Bridal. It was a challenge getting this shot – we had just a few minutes left before the sun completely set at the end of a long day shooting, the model was floating on her back in a river and I was precariously balanced on a ladder that Amy was holding steady while waist deep in water. The model couldn’t hear me directing her because her ears were underwater so we both just had to trust what the other was doing and work together silently to get the shot. The model’s expression, the way Emily Rigg’s veil and headpiece design are so vividly featured, and the overall mood of the shot are exactly what we were trying to achieve. I really love how it turned out.

Junebug: Best advice you've ever received about being an artist?

Erich McVey: Find your own inspiration. There is such a fine line between being inspired by other artists’ work and oversaturating your own mind and artistic vision through the work of others. You have to think for your self as an artist, creating new and original ideas through your own experiences, imagination and talent. Be cognizant of the work you’re creating and hold true to your own vision. That way, your ideas and your art are yours and yours alone.

Junebug: Best advice you've ever received about being a business person?

Erich McVey: My dad, who owns and runs a fine art framing business he and my mom started almost 30 years ago, told me, “Your clients deserve nothing less than your absolute best,” and he’s right. “Good” really isn’t good enough. I value the investment my clients make when they choose me as their photographer, and their trust in me is never something to take for granted. My clients deserve the best, and that’s what I work to deliver every time.

Junebug: What are looking forward to most right now?

Erich McVey: Amy and I are shooting weddings in France and Norway this summer, and I am really looking forward to spending time in those beautiful countries. We always love traveling and exploring new places, and to be able to do so while photographing incredible weddings with wonderful clients makes it that much more enjoyable.

Thank you, Erich, for sharing your time and gorgeous work with us! Visit Erich McVey's website, blog and Junebug member brochure to see more.

Photographer Spotlight on Adam Alex Photography

admin — Wed, 01 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Destination wedding photographer, Adam Alex, feels right at home traveling around the world to capture documentary images with a timeless, ethereal flair. We recently welcomed him to our World's Best Wedding Photographers Hotlist, and we're thrilled to share his work and his thoughts with you today.

Junebug: Can you tell us what being an artist/ photographer means to you?

Adam Alex: To me, being an artist/photographer is many things, but I believe there is one underlying factor that all artists possess and that is that we all have this natural intuition to want to communicate. As an artist, I am being commissioned to tell a couple's story through my version of their wedding day. I am always reminded that I am the lucky one, to be commissioned for my vision. Having creative freedom at a wedding is a blessing for both myself and my clients. The more my clients trust me, the more creatively I am able to tell their story.

With all of that in mind, I really follow my natural intuition to communicate through the medium of photography. For me, photography is about a visual language and visual communication. How you tell a story is the key to truth of it, and that holds the biggest value in anyone’s life. I have a philosophy that I stick to and it is called ‘fridge philosophy’. This is a philosophy that is based on the fact that most people stick their most valuable pictures to a fridge. It is not about the quality of the image or the print, but rather it is about the value that image has. It is not about how it is retouched or printed, it is on the fridge because it deserves to be viewed everyday by everyone passing by it. The fact we can print on fine art paper and have so many options for beautiful albums now is just a bonus, but as artists, we can focus on the value of an image. This is what attracts me to weddings.

Junebug: Please tell us about where you live, what you like to do when you aren't shooting, and what inspires you.

Adam: Currently I am based out of London UK. I love London. Sure, it’s not the Seychelles but it is beautiful and rich in its unique culture. I love London fashion, style and history; it is always an experience walking through London.

When I am not shooting, I am generally spending time with my family and my son who has just started to walk...exciting times. I love his age now, he is like a little sponge and I love being with him teaching him things. I also produce music and although I neglected this for a few years, I am back producing music now. Making music is easier now than ever before. My laptop on a long distance flight is all I need. Many songs have been produced with just my laptop, some airline peanuts and my headphones. Making time for me is so important to keeping me inspired. My family comes first in everything, they are my drive and my first priority, so spending time with them when I am in the UK is always a blessing.

Junebug: How did you start shooting destination photography? What do you love about destination weddings?

Adam: For me, a destination wedding is more than a wedding. I agree that I am blessed to shoot in amazing locations across the globe but this is just a bonus as the same ‘Fridge Philosophy’ applies no matter where you get married. I started to shoot destination weddings a few years back after being commissioned to shoot 3 in one year. I felt at home when shooting destination weddings because most couples who plan weddings away from home tend to focus more on detail of the experience, and as a story-teller, I want those clients. The attention to detail and experience really allows me to flow with my style of story telling.

I love that with destination weddings I can document a family over 3 or 4 days. I join the couple and their family on day 1 and after day 4, I leave as family. Pre-wedding trips with family members, wedding day celebrations on beaches in the Indian Ocean, followed by day after shoots and family gatherings tell a strong, broad story. They want the experience, the time with the family, the climate, the culture and the landscape, that’s their dream and I get to share that with them.

Junebug: As a destination photographer, what are your favorite locations and where are you looking forward to shooting next?

Adam: I genuinely love and appreciate most countries. The Mediterranean has a special place in my heart. The Greek islands are just stunning in their beauty and culture. Boat trips in the Mediterranean are amazing. I also love the city life of New York for example, it is equally beautiful in its own way. Some of the locations I have been blessed to work in and love to shoot in are the South of France, Athens, Mykonos, Ios, Santorini, Crete, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Zurich, Puerto Rico, Lebanon, USA and Holland. I am also looking forward to shooting in the Seychelles this year and South Africa, both will be epic and new to me.

Junebug: What should a couple know about hiring a photographer for a destination wedding?

Adam: Hiring a destination-wedding photographer in many ways is the same as hiring any wedding photographer. A client should invest into the man/woman behind the lens and not be sold into trends or packages. Their choice of photographer is as important as selecting the right tattoo artist to make you a tattoo. It is a permanent mark, it cannot be erased and there are different artists with different styles. If the photographer is familiar with the location that is always a good thing, but I think it is more important to find that connection with the photographer no matter where they are based and if that involves flying them in to the country, then that is the best thing to do.

Junebug: What things should couples know about getting married in a new country? Any complications that might arise or things to prepare for?

Every couple has a different reason for having a destination wedding. Some couples base it on a memory or emotional connection and some base the decision on the landscape beauty. So regardless of the reason, not all couples officially get married at the time of the event. Some get legally married before in their home country and then have a blessing after. Every wedding is different but I would investigate the legal requirements for marriage in your choice of country. I once documented a wedding in Barcelona for an Australian couple living in Australia and they had some issues with the legal elements of the wedding in Spain due to Spanish law. For example, the Spanish town hall could not give them confirmation on the wedding date until 6 months before their wedding date. This naturally frustrated the couple because they had to organize a destination wedding including logistics and guests from Australia to Spain in less than 6 months...but it was all abot getting married so every thing turned out perfect, needless to say.

Thanks, Adam! To see more of Adam Alex's gorgeous work, visit his website, blog and Junebug brochure.

Photographer Spotlight on Ryan Flynn Photography

admin — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Today I have a true treat for you with the Photographer Spotlight Interview of Pacific Northwest wedding photographer Ryan Flynn. His photos are artistic, beautiful, and simply... real. Read on for gorgeous photography and to hear Ryan's thoughts on everything from Polaroids and Wes Anderson's Moonrise Kingdom, to how he loves to make people cry (in a good way, of course).

Junebug: What do you enjoy about photographing weddings in the Pacific Northwest?

Ryan Flynn: Probably my favorite thing about photographing in the PNW is the huge amount of amazing outdoor venues, along with couples who have the style and inclination to take advantage of them. We also tend to have a lot of really beautiful light, despite the rain, which is what every photographer dreams of.

Junebug: Where do you want to shoot next?

Ryan Flynn: I would do just about anything to shoot in Ireland! Legal or otherwise. Just kidding. Or am I?

Junebug: Favorite image you've taken lately?

Ryan Flynn: I really love this one (see above) for a few reasons. One of my favorite ways to shoot is to just explore/wander. This is exactly how we found this spot...we were looking for something else, and stumbled across this torn up train car. Everything just clicked. Having clients willing to climb around was helpful, too.

Junebug: Favorite wedding location?

Ryan Flynn: Sodo Park is one of my favorite indoor locations. For outdoor locations, I've loved getting to shoot in the Methow Valley, and on the Olympic Peninsula. Rosario Beach up by Anacortes has been crazy good, too, it has so much of the quintessential PNW coastal beauty to it, without being too far away. Washington has too many amazing spots to get married.

Junebug: You shoot frequently with film, including instant-film like Polaroids. Can you talk a bit about what interests you in that form of photography?

Ryan Flynn: I think what initially drew me to Polaroids was seeing some really amazing non-wedding work with it. From there, I fell down the rabbit hole pretty quickly, so to speak. Love came quickly. I love that instant film is such a different process from what I usually do. Shooting digitally is great, and being able to edit an image to fit your vision is a big part of what I do. But...there's something really special about making an image, and then 60 seconds later you peel the negative apart and get to see what you made. There's definitely a nostalgia factor...the polaroid images just look cool. They look a little vintage and a little softer than digital. Mostly, though, I love how tangible they are. So much of what we surround ourselves with exists online, or somewhere that we don't really interact with it. You can't underestimate the power of holding a photograph in your hand.

Junebug: What's your favorite camera? lens?

Ryan Flynn: I've tried so many different cameras and systems, from Leica to Nikon to Contax. My overall favorite though, and what I currently use, is the Canon 5D Mk. III and 50mm f/1.2 lens. Gear isn't everything for a photographer, but having gear you like and that you work well with makes a big difference.

Junebug: How has being a wedding photographer made you a stronger photographer over all?

Ryan Flynn: Being a wedding photographer has taught me how to think much faster on my feet, and be able to create good images regardless of the circumstances. Things happen quickly, and you don't always have the luxury of perfect light or guidance of the subjects. It's also helped me get much more comfortable with directing, and being able to visualize what sort of images I want, and make them happen.

Junebug: A tip or two for couples who are looking for their perfect wedding photographer?

Ryan Flynn: Really try to hone in on what type of photographs you as the bride and groom, love. Modern, creative portraits? More purely photojournalistic imagery? There's so many photographers out there and so much photography to look through. Figuring out what you love and how you want your story told is key. I'd also try to see as much of the photographer's work as you can...I feel like anyone can create a few amazing portfolio images, but someone who's really good at what they do will have entire wedding galleries of amazing work.

Junebug: A tip or two for couples on how to look amazing and feel comfortable in their photographs?

Ryan Flynn: A good photographer should also be good at making you feel comfortable in front of the camera. Let's be honest, it's a bit of a weird feeling at first, being the center of attention like that. I find it helps a lot to just focus on being with your partner, and not on the camera. It's also a good idea to communicate with your photographer on how much direction you want/need, and how much they like to give. As far as looking good, it's a good idea to coordinate (but NOT match) your wardrobe choices. I'm always happy when my clients bring options, too.

Junebug: What is the best possible/your favorite reaction from a client when you deliver their images?

Ryan Flynn: Tears. I just like making people cry. This is probably the only situation where you can say this and not be a terrible person. :) Really, I just love when people have a strong emotional response and connection to their images. That's exactly what I strive for. It's always nice to hear, "We barely even noticed you were there!" too.

Junebug: Something that has inspired you recently?

Ryan Flynn: Ideally I try to take as much inspiration from things outside the wedding "world" as possible. Especially paying attention to films and tv shows with great cinematography. The amount of thought and intention put into each shot in a film is inspiring, particularly when you see the way they visually tell stories. Moonrise Kingdom was a great recent example of that. Every shot had so much attention paid to detail, composition, light, etc.

Junebug: How has witnessing so many weddings impacted your life/outlook?

Ryan Flynn: It hasn't really changed my outlook, but it has definitely reinforced it. Witnessing couples who are genuinely excited about joining their lives together has been a weekly reminder of why I truly believe in marriage. Feeling like I can provide tangible reminders of not just their wedding, but their marriage, has become the thing that really drives me.

Junebug: What really gets to you at weddings? Makes you cry? Makes you laugh?

Ryan Flynn: I'm a sucker for the bride and groom dancing with their parents. It's one of those traditions that I really do love, and almost always makes me tear up.

Junebug: One thing you'd like every bride and groom to know before their wedding?

Ryan Flynn: People say the day goes by in a blur. They're right. Remember to take time to focus on being present, and being with each other. It's worth slowing down a bit and really savoring all the moments and people, and the reason this whole big event is taking place.

Junebug: What gets you up in the morning?

Ryan Flynn: I just wake up super excited about writing emails, mostly. Ok, that's not true. Is coffee a valid answer? Really, though, on wedding or shoot days I do wake up super excited about getting to make photos. That act of creation is what keeps it fresh and exciting for me.

Junebug: Best advice you've ever received about being an artist?

Ryan Flynn: If you're not excited about the images you're creating, it's time to change things. The work you do should be fulfilling...it's the only way I think you can really serve your clients best, and be happy.

Thank you Ryan, for sharing your beautiful work and letting us get to know you better. To see more of Ryan Flynn's gorgeous photography, visit his blog, website and Junebug brochure.

Spotlight on Bali Wedding Photographer, Veli Yanto

admin — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 12:00:00 GMT

Bali wedding photographer Veli Yanto is quickly bringing a brand new outlook and vision to the art of wedding photography in Indonesia. With emotionally compelling photos, his vibrant work is perfectly suited for the colorful traditions, culture and landscape of Bali. It is my privilege to share Veli's stunning work with you today, along with his passion for photography, business and life.

Junebug: How did you get into wedding photography?

Veli Yanto: It was back in 2004 when I graduated from college and moved to Bali to work for a retail company. I had lots of spare time, so I thought it would be great to buy a camera and take pictures of Bali’s landscape and culture. I bought my first pocket camera back in 2005 from my yearly bonus and started taking pictures. I spent almost all my spare time searching anything related to photography on the internet. Then I thought it would be great if I could make extra money from photography, so I began to work as a freelance photographer in 2006. The craziest thing was when I get my first job to shoot an event, I didn't even know how to use a flash! The day before the event, I bought a flash and asked my friend from a photography community how to use it. My Dad was doubtful and thought that I was only wasting my time with this photography stuff. I know it’s because I didn’t come from a family with photography/artistic background. But his doubt drove me to follow my passion and make it one day. In October 2010 I started my own photography business.

Junebug: What really gets to you at weddings? Makes you cry? Makes you laugh?

Veli Yanto: I shot a wedding where the mother of the bride had a stroke and was unable to speak. During that day I never heard her say anything nor have an expression on her face. During the ceremony, when the couple went to their parents to thank them, the bride asked her mother "How do you feel, Mom?" and suddenly her mom spoke and said "Happy!" None of the guests could hold back their tears, including myself. That moment always reminds me how blessed I am to be a wedding photographer.

Junebug: Do you shoot film, digital or both?

Veli Yanto: All digital. But recently I have begun to shoot with film to have a different challenge.

Junebug: Where do you want to shoot next?

Veli Yanto: Anywhere that has unique culture, scenery, and venues.

Junebug: What gets you up in the morning?

Veli Yanto: A hug and kiss from my wife :).

Junebug: Describe your wedding photography style in less than 6 adjectives.

Veli Yanto: Emotive, natural, sincere and story-telling.

Junebug: One thing you'd like every bride and groom to know before their wedding?

Veli Yanto: Things might go wrong sometimes on the wedding day. But as long as you are happy and surrounded by family and friends who support you and are happy for you, your wedding will be perfect.

Junebug: What is your favorite moment or tradition at weddings?

Veli Yanto: The connection between father and daughter. From the first look, to walking down the aisle to the father/daughter dance, it’s just amazing. I can see and feel the emotion.

Junebug: Favorite image you've taken lately?

Veli Yanto: I took the image below last month, only 5 days after I got out of the hospital due to typhoid symptoms. I’m still not feeling 100%, but this couple was just amazing. They gave me lots of strength to get my job done.

Junebug: How has being a wedding photographer made you a stronger photographer over all?

Veli Yanto: As a wedding photographer, you have to be able to take great pictures using both natural and artificial light, and you have to be able to shoot Products, Interiors and Exteriors, Fashion, Portraits, Documentary and Photojournalism. You have to learn all of these styles and combine them together in every wedding.

Junebug: What is your favorite reaction from a client when you delivered their wedding images?

Veli Yanto: It was my first clients of 2012. When I showed them their wedding pictures, the bride began to cry while going through all the pictures.

Junebug: Best advice you've ever received about being an artist?

Veli Yanto: Don’t let people tell you how you should do it, do it your way.

Junebug: Best advice you've ever received about being a happy human?

Veli Yanto: Do what you love and be grateful for what you already have.

Veli, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and your work with us! To see more from Veli Photography, visit his website, blog, and Junebug member brochure.

Wedding Photographer Spotlight - Daniel Aguilar

Junebug — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Today it is my absolute honor to share with you the phenomenally beautiful work of Daniel Aguilar. An aclaimed wedding photographer based out of Mexico, Daniel's photos passionately reveal the love between his couples as well as the magic of his homeland. Skillfully able to pull off both documentary and fine art approaches, his photos tell stories in the most gorgeous way possible. Read on and see for yourself!

Junebug: What do you enjoy most about shooting weddings in Mexico?

Daniel Aguilar: I love the fact that in an indirect way, I can show the world how beautiful my country is. We have the sickest haciendas, the most beautiful beaches and the people of Mexico are just so amazing. Being around my colors, my culture and my roots inspires me.

Junebug: Your work is so evocative and dramatic, what keeps you inspired and pushing the boundaries?

Daniel Aguilar: I feel that I have not reached my peak as a creative person and photographer. When I see the work of the true masters out there, regardless of their craft, whether it be music, cinematography, sculpture, cuisine, etc. I see all the dedication these great artists have for their work. I realize I still have a very long way to go and I'm looking forward to seeing what I produce in the future.

Junebug: How did you get into wedding photography?

Daniel Aguilar: By accident. I shot some weddings for some close friends, but never thought I would fall in love with shooting them! Then, I came across the work of Ben Chrisman and it was a revelation to me; I wanted to be like him, I wanted to travel the world like him, and I wanted to create the most awesome wedding images that I could make.

Junebug: What really gets to you at weddings? Makes you cry? Makes you laugh?

Daniel Aguilar: I think weddings are sexy, elegant and deeply emotional and those 3 things move me. I really want to show a bride a side of herself that she may have never seen before; elegant and sexy, and at the same time I want to tell the story of her wedding day and show her how much love she's surrounded with. I want to show how important it is to have family around you on your wedding day. I want to show images that reflect the unconditional love family and friends can have for you. I want to share my own vision of what it is to be loved and how I would like that love to be remembered.

Junebug: What are your favorite areas of Mexico to photograph?

Daniel Aguilar: Mérida and Campeche in Mexico, have the most beautiful haciendas to shoot weddings. They are colorful, elegant, a bit mysterious and have the most beautiful light everywhere. Any colonial city in Mexico, like Puebla or Oaxaca or San Miguel truly inspires me.

Junebug: Do you have a favorite wedding venue in particular?

Daniel Aguilar: That's a tough one, have to mention two, one is too hard. The first one has to be Hacienda Uayamon in Campeche, México. It's definitely one of the most beautiful wedding venues in the world. The other is the Hotel Quinta Real in Zacatecas, México. This used to be a bull fighting ring that was transformed into this gorgeous hotel. It really has a magical vibe.

Junebug: Where do you want to shoot next?

Daniel Aguilar: I would give an arm and a leg to shoot in Asia.

Junebug: Can you share a tip or two for couples who are looking for their perfect wedding photographer?

Daniel Aguilar: Truly take your time in going through the work of photographers that you are interested in. See it, enjoy it, fall in love with it. Don't just go with someone because someone recommended them. Instead, hire the photographer that makes you feel something when you see his/her images. The one that resonates with you. The one that no matter what you have to do or pay, you must have them document your wedding!

Also, brides, wear your hair loose! It's so much more sexy, dreamy, elegant and youthful! You'll look great; consider it!

Junebug: How has being a wedding photographer made you a stronger photographer over all?

Daniel Aguilar: Wedding photography is so challenging and complex. Nothing is the same ever, so if you really want to do it right, you really have to study and focus and perform at your highest level. It is almost impossible to shoot a wedding perfectly -- technically speaking, but if you decide you want to try you'll realize you have to perform at the top of your game. You're thinking about light, moment and the composition of every single frame. You're reminding yourself to think outside the box; to shoot different; to shoot outside your comfort zone. You're trying to be creative with details shots and also have a strong and solid knowledge of portraiture. Trying to do all that in an 8-12 hour period can really show you how very difficult it is to execute great photography more specifically wedding photography.

Junebug: With so much great talent in the wedding industry, can you name five professionals you adore working with right now?

Daniel Aguilar: I'll have to go with my Mexican colleagues who keep my inspiration high. I'm so blown away by their talent! That's Fer Juaristi, Citlalli Rico, David Josué, Rafa Ibañez and on video, Ricardo Grajeda from REELOVE. Working with any of them is nothing but magic. I'm forced to do my best and I know they'll do their best too. It is an incredible exchange of ideas and good vibes and the results are always incredible. I have to mention also that as a photography student I love working with Sergio Photographer. He is a great leader, a great inspiration and has taught me so so much. So yes, mis amigos Mexicanos kick some butt!

Junebug: Name something that has inspired you recently.

Daniel Aguilar: So many things. Mentoring in Foundation Workshop always shows me how much I still have to learn and is always a constant inspiration. The documentary, Jiro Dreams of Sushi has showed me the importance of perseverance, it's really awesome! The book Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon is brilliant for inspiration, and believe it or not, the TV Series Breaking Bad inspires me! I'm amazed by the talent of the writers and the production of the show and how they can create such a powerful and emotionally deep story that's amazingly crafted, using all kinds of resources like great acting, great writing, deep human philosophy, cinematography, etc.

Junebug: What gets your heart racing - both personally and professionally?

Daniel Aguilar: Proving to myself and to the world that I can reach my dreams; that I can get as far as I want. Inspire my country.

Junebug: What are looking forward to most right now?

Daniel Aguilar: Next summer I shoot my first wedding in Ireland. I still can't believe it!

Junebug: Best advice you've ever received about being an artist?

Daniel Aguilar: In the words of Austin Kleon, simply: 'Steal Like an Artist.' That statement, after reading Austin's book, really changed the way I approach creativity and how I shouldn't torture myself about not being good enough or original enough.

Junebug: Best advice you've ever received about being a business person?

Daniel Aguilar: I've always considered myself a bad business person, then I read a column by the great Jason Fried in INC. magazine where he says, "doing business is like learning to play the drums, you might not be good at first, you just have to learn and keep practicing." That really was a revelation to me. I understood, just like any other discipline in the world, doing business has to a lot with studying, practicing and learning and not so much to do with being born with a natural talent of a businessman.

Junebug: Best advice you've ever received about being a happy human?

Daniel Aguilar: Tough one, but maybe, 'accept who you are' and 'don't take anything personal'

Thank you, Daniel for all this beauty! To continue to immerse yourself in Daniel Aguilar's incredible work, please visit his blog, website and Junebug member brochure.

Photographer Spotlight on White Fashion Photographer

Junebug — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

White Fashion Photographer's Eigirdas Scinskas understands that every bride wants to feel beautiful on her wedding day, so he makes it a personal goal to help each of his lovely ladies feel as fashionable and glamorous as models straight out of Vogue. With charm, an impeccable eye, and assistance from his fiancée Monica (an accomplished make-up artist), each photo is alluring, breathtaking and timeless. It's my absolute pleasure to share Eigirdas' artistry and inspiration with you today!

Junebug: How does fashion and beauty come into play with your wedding work?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: My first inspiration was most talented fashion photographer Helmut Newton, when I saw his photographs I couldn’t take my eyes off of this creation of style and beauty. I have photographed over 300 weddings in the last 10 years, while also working as a fashion photographer. My eye for beauty makes my work original, stylish, and deeply emotional, and my ability to record a wedding day in a beautiful, timeless style while creating stunning, contemporary portraits of loving couples is my major strength. I know how to make people look their best in every situation – for me it becomes very natural.

Junebug: What do you find most exciting about shooting weddings in Italy?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: There is something wonderful between myself, my fiancée Monica, and Italy: we are totally in love! Monica is perfect, a professional make-up artist and blogger as well, and we are so thankful that fate has brought us together and that we are able to live and create in our dream country of Italy. For us every street and city is more than just beautiful. And guess where we are planning our upcoming wedding? Yes, you are right!

Junebug: How did you get into wedding photography?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: I admire the ability to convey the surroundings, the character, the idea. My 10 years experience as a photographer has helped me in every situation. I work for the audience. I aim to surprise, to bring joy, to shock. I always feel happy when achieving my aims and when receiving a client’s genuine reaction to a completed piece of art. Every wedding is unique and different. Different people, location, weather, reactions, but one thing always remains the same – LOVE. That is why I am crazy about my job!

Junebug: What is your favorite moment or tradition at weddings?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: The bride and groom portraits are some of my favorite moments. I enjoy shooting true feelings and I admire the ability to create high art.

Junebug: Do you shoot film, digital or both?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: Both. But I admire the ability to shoot with old film tape camera. It is what I totally love!

Junebug: What albums do you offer?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: Yes, I offer an exclusive coffee table book / album of the wedding day. It is handmade, professionally designed, the best high-quality, Italian leather cover. And you can choose from different size and colors – navy blue/ creamy/ brown.

Junebug: What are your favorite wedding locations in your area?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: Every location becomes perfect when the bride and groom are happy and you can feel it! I love to take photographs in Rome, Florence, Venice, Italian Riviera, Sicily, Sardinia, Amalfi Coast. There are truly lot of beautiful places and venues in Italy to choose from.

Junebug: What are your favorite destinations locations?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: French Riviera, Paris, Maldives, Bali.

Junebug: Where do you want to shoot next?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: In March we will start our 2013 wedding season, and we will start in Florence!

Junebug: What gets you up in the morning?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: Squirrels! We are living near the forest so every morning two beautiful squirrels jump in the balcony and wake up us. And I start my day with good espresso!

Junebug: Can you share a tip or two for couples who are looking for their perfect wedding photographer?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: If you are looking at my website then you have already found your wedding photographer! You need to be calm about your decision, only then will you truly enjoy your beautiful wedding day. The best tip – to feel and see love in the photographs.

Junebug: Do you have a tips for couples on how to look amazing and feel comfortable in their photographs?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: I am happy to say that I always work with my fiancée and she is a professional make up artist. We suggest packages where make up for the bride is included and the artist can be near you all day – that way you will look stunning in all portraits photos and all your wedding day.

Junebug: What is the best thank you that you've ever received?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: I love when the bride has happy tears because the photographs are full of that days feelings.

Junebug: What is the best advice you've ever received about being a happy human?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: To Love.

Junebug: Something that has inspired you recently?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: I am very inspired by art.

Junebug: How do you know you've done a great job for your wedding clients?

Eigirdas Scinskas, White Fashion Photographer: When I create fashion photographs in weddings!

Want more beauty? Visit White Fashion Photographer's website, blog and Junebug brochure.