5 celebrity wedding photographers share their top secrets
What is the one all-important detail that comes after the ring but before the wedding? The ’Gram-worthy picture to announce your big day, of course. Awkward poses that result in a half cringe-half smile just won’t do. Nor will corny props or gimmicky poses on hot-air balloons. The modern bride is zooming in on simple sophistication but with an unapologetic dose of fashion. Cue: wedding portraits that are creative directed enough to rival a fashion shoot—time to get your smize on.
Apeksha Maker and Vaishnav Praveen, The House Of Pixels
Krésha Bajaj Zaveri’s 2016 Udaipur nuptials was the first wedding this commercial and conceptual photographer duo shot. Today, they are on the speed dial of Bollywood A-listers, with a repertoire that boasts Sonam Kapoor Ahuja’s wedding and couple portraits for Priyanka Chopra’s Mumbai reception.
Behind the lens
“Portraits with a minimal aesthetic are our forte. They are quick to shoot but require extensive planning. So, for Priyanka, we worked closely with her stylist. This allowed us to choose a backdrop and lighting that would best complement her outfit,” says Maker.
The pre-wedding shoot
“Do you really need five wardrobe changes? Think beyond your Instagram posts—keep it simple so you enjoy these pictures years down the line too. A day’s two golden hours—sunrise and sunset—are your best bets for the perfect natural light,” advises Praveen. Instagram.com/thehouseofpixels
David Bastianoni
What do fashion influencer Chiara Ferragni and jewellery designer Kaabia Grewal Shah have in common? Their weddings were both shot by this Italian avant-garde photographer. Bastianoni, who studied the works of David LaChapelle, Paolo Roversi and Peter Lindbergh for years, started out as a fashion photographer, and went on to combine his love for fashion, art and storytelling by shifting focus to weddings.
Behind the lens
“At weddings, almost nothing goes as planned. You need to be like a jazz musician and constantly improvise.”
The pre-wedding shoot
“Since you have more time to set this up, pick a cool location and follow its vistas and colours. Just like a magazine editorial, choose a theme but don’t stick to a style.” Davidbastianoni.com
Errikos Andreou
Remember Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh’s heart-melting wedding pictures — the couple dancing with carefree abandon during the mehendi and whispering sweet nothings during the ceremony? They won the Internet. Fashion and portrait photographer Errikos Andreou was behind these images that are now the gold standard of wedded bliss.
Behind the lens
“I don’t think too much about what will make an interesting photo. I just document the story unfolding before me. I prefer natural light and candid captures. Flash just makes the picture looked staged.”
The pre-wedding shoot
“If the couple is uncomfortable, it will show. Follow the moment rather than orchestrating every frame. The minute the photographer starts directing, you lose the magic.” Errikosandreou.com
Signe Vilstrup
“Sonam is so beautiful, it’s impossible to take a bad picture!” The Danish photographer who shot Sonam Kapoor Ahuja and Anand Ahuja’s wedding for Vogue India, opted for an artistic look over a classic one. The warm tones enhanced the actress’ traditional red outfit and the celebration’s set-up.”
Behind the lens
“The focus is on capturing raw emotions with a mix of candid and staged images. Weddings are a logistical nightmare, so I prepare, but ultimately just go with the flow. Sometimes, the most insignificant moment can lead to your best shot.”
The pre-wedding shoot
“Don’t force the moment. You can direct only to a certain extent. It’s best for the couple to move around and not plan too much.” Instagram.com/signe_vilstrup
KT Merry
A charming resort surrounded by Napa Valley’s rolling vineyards with the bride and groom laughing into their happily ever after—the pure joy of this fairytale setting was authentically captured in KT Merry’s wedding photos for Lea Michele and Zandy Reich in March. Merry, who started photographing weddings 12 years ago after working in fashion for five years, also shot Kate Upton and Justin Verlander’s Tuscan wedding in 2017.
Behind the lens
“It rained on the day of Lea’s wedding, but it paused just after the ceremony, so we had beautiful light for the portraits. I prefer an editorial approach; with well-composed and poised candid shots that don’t disrupt the natural flow of emotions or events.”
The pre-wedding shoot
“Embrace the natural landscape and light. Avoid props and focus on incredible fashion and make-up instead. Consider working with a stylist to capture your personality with your wardrobe.” Ktmerry.com
Also read:
10 commandments to ace your pre-wedding photo shoot
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