Taking your time to look through not only your wedding photographers’ portfolio, but how they work and whether you feel connected to them on a personal level is definitely worthwhile. As a photographer, my creativity and storytelling is just part of the package I bring to the table. Being one of the few vendors who would spend the entire day with you, feeling comfortable and at ease, is so important!
Each part of a wedding day is packed with action, people, and emotions, whether its a layback or grand affair. Staying in the moment and remembering to be there for yourself sometimes gets swept away with others demanding your attention. So having your photographer be your sidekick is a great plan. Any photographer worth their salt will make you their number one priority. And know that your happiness only helps capture the best moments, so its a win-win. During the day, I’ll be there to help wrangle your family together for photos, double-check your dress is sitting right, but more than that, be a friend for any last-minute advice or just to have a laugh with when everything is mad around (I’m looking at you bridesmaid when getting ready!)
Apart from having a detailed Q & A section for all those logistic queries you might have (FAQs), here are 13 great questions I gathered up to get to know me a bit more.
The secret we all want to reveal – who is the best wedding photographer in Toronto?
I like to think we all have our strengths and connections. Photography, especially wedding photography, is all about capturing the most genuine and candid images from the day. You can expect a modern documentary-style approach, where, vibrant, authentic moments are my main focus, but my couples & their stories are ultimately the muse and inspiration for sure! With that, it’s important that each couple really connects and feels great with their photographer. We’re all so different! So when someone connects with me and my work, that means I’m the best wedding photographer for them.
Do you look good in pictures?
I’ve had a few professional portraits done myself and I’ve got to say the rumors are true. Photographers are terrible at being photographed! We tend to get awkward and silly, but ultimately that can bring out some of the best moments too.
How did you start working in the wedding photography field?
I knew from an early age that I loved meeting new people, getting to know them, and a natural desire to tell their stories through photography. When I got a camera, it was rare not having it with me. Ultimately, after finishing my Bachelor’s in Art for Photography & Media, being a wedding photographer became the most natural fit for me. Nearly a decade later, that path was absolutely the best I could have taken. It never grows old connecting, and listening to people’s stories, having the honor of being invited, and entrusted into their lives to document all the wonderful love and happiness they have for each other.
What are some of the key elements that make a photo attractive?
Candid, raw moments. People are truly beautiful in all stages of emotions, knowing when to capture those moments is key, and very much an art form. As a photographer, you are the storyteller to this amazing and emotional day. Knowing your couple and being attentive to details is such an important element to yield authentic, meaningful photos for your clients.
Do you like traveling?
I spent most of my life traveling, and have had the pleasure of living in many parts of the world too. Apart from photography, my other passion is exploring through travel. When we travel, we get to experience and share different people’s stories and way of life. So for me, the feeling I have when travel and that of storytelling go very much hand in hand. Getting to combine those two things is always exciting and special.
What is there in the work that brings you happiness?
Getting to be part of such a joyful day. Having that trust and connection to document it. Knowing that I am creating something for my clients that will be passed down through generations and become a way to tell their story.
Is there anything in your work that you don’t like or even hate?
I hate not getting to dance at the wedding party! But I still shake around when I’m going around taking photos of crazy dance moves and friends getting hyped to their favorite song. Speeches get to me the most, especially the really intimate heartfelt ones. I feel ever so slightly embarrassed sniveling on the other side of the camera. Its really special to witness how people love each other, and how much connections matter to us as humans, getting to hear that in one spot for a couple of people is a unique experience.
Can you imagine what wedding photography will be like in the future?
As long as there’s love, I’m there.
What makes wedding photography different from other photography genres?
The people. I have never come across a couple that is the same, from characters, dynamics, gender, race, ethnicity, or religion. I am so grateful to be able to use my art to highlight and raise the stories of the lives and love of so many amazing humans. Their realness, their connection, the love that is coming from everyone for these two beautiful people never stops being inspiring. This is something that is quite special for wedding photography. You get to become part of an intimate circle of friends and family and then share that wonderful world back to them through your images. It is very nostalgic, romantic, very powerful.
How do you deal with criticism?
With open arms. When someone believes they don’t need to improve, that’s pretty much a nail in the coffin for their creativity. Hearing where you can grow as a creative or having a fresh set of eyes on how you approach or create your work, should always be seen as an opportunity to build and develop your craft.
What details that usually pass unnoticed can a wedding photographer capture?
Your guests. They will be having the best time and you’ll want to see all of that in your photos!
What is absolutely unacceptable when taking photos?
Expecting your couple to know how to pose like it’s their job. It’s yours.
What should future newlyweds pay attention to when looking for a wedding photographer?
Go with your gut. Instinct is important. When you meet your photographer, if you connect and like their work, go for it! They will be with you the whole day, so it’s important to feel great & comfortable around them.
You can check out more details on my investment page, or go straight to the contact page. Let’s grab a coffee or glass of wine over skype, email or in person and talk about your plans!
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Lauren Newman is a Wedding & Engagement Photographer for those seeking candid, authentic, and vibrant imagery.
Everyone has a story to tell. What’s your story?
Be in touch for engagement, wedding & elopement packages. Serving all of Canada, including Toronto, Montreal, and any destination love goes 
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