Aneta MAK Photography | The Interview | Bryllupsfotograf | Wedding Photographer

I vår serie THE INTERVIEW, intervjuer vi bryllupsfotografer vi beundrer på ulike grunnlag. Dette for å få vite mer om merkevaren deres, hvem som er 'bak kamera', og hva de tenker om seg selv og sin profesjon. Vi håper at våre intervjuer er til inspirasjon, både for kommende bruder, og andre fotograf kolleger. For oss er det viktig at de har en tydelig merkevare, en unik kvalitet og ikke minst integritet. Som en ekstra bonus digger NWB fotografer med kul attitude, og som tydelig fremstår som ekte vare. Vi ønsker å inspirere også de utenfor fotografsfæren med personlige spørsmål, som kan gi oss et glimt av menneskene bak alt det vakre visuelle. Hvem er de som fanger de store øyeblikkene i livene våre på så sjelsettende vis. Hva liker de, hva drømmer de om, og hva driver de? Denne gangen er det dyktige ANETA MAK, som vi var så heldig å få stjele litt tid av rett før bryllupssesongen tar helt av. NWB falt 'head over heels', fra første stund vi så hennes vakre arbeid, og det traff rett i sjel og hjerte. Hun blander perfekt det sarte med det estetiske vakre, samtidig som det er tidløs eleganse. Vi blir alltid betatt av hennes bilder, og vi skulle gjerne tapetsert våre vegger med hennes kunstverk, så vi kunne omgitt oss med alt denne inspirasjonen, som gir næring til sjel og sinn. ANETA MAK gir oss visuelle drømmer fra virkeligheten, som berører, og får oss til å lengte etter mer.

In our series THE INTERVIEW, we interview wedding photographers we admire in different ways. We want to know about their brand, how they work, who's behind that lens, and what are they thoughts about their work and life. NWB hope that our interviews are an inspiration for brides to be, as well as fellow photographers in the industry. It is important for us that the selective photographers have recognizable brand, a unique quality, and integrity. We also like the extra flavor, such as a cool attitude, a backbone, and a funnybone. And by getting to know the people behind all that visual beauty, we also want to inspire everyone who is intrigued by getting to know people - life and love. Who are they? The ones that capture our lives important moments in such profound ways; what are their dreams, and what drives & thrives them? NWB try to give you the answers. This time it's the really talented ANETA MAK. We fell in love with her by the first glance at her work, and she captured our hearts, just longing for more. She mixes the sober elegance with such style and heart, that we want to wake up looking at her beautiful work of art. Her exquisite work, makes us believe that real life are even better than the wildest dream. It's just timeless, effortless and understated sophistication from real life and real moments, made into art to last a lifetime and beyond.

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1. When and how did you 'fall into' the photography business?
I have always done art, but hand-drawn - BW portraits mostly using pencils or pastels - until a photographer friend inspired me to use a camera. That all happened in 2006, and in 2008 my photography business was born.

2. Photographing is a very personal matter, and are often unique because of the photographer, and how he or she sees it - what do you believe wedding photography should be about?
Totally - every person, photographer or not, sees the world in their own way. We have all lived different lives, had different experiences, we all like different art - things that inspire me, may not inspire others, and vice versa - that's why finding a photographer that shares your vision is so important. Wedding photography is so many things - it's telling the story of the couple as it unfolds but it's also putting your own take on the event too, it's seeing things with a trained pair of eyes that notices things that non-photographers most likely to miss, it's seeing the beauty in small things that most people ignore - it's the art of seeing the unseen and the art of creating in pressured situations.

 3. How would you describe your style in five words?

 Elegant, timeless, understated, happy, beautiful.

 4. When did you decide to do weddings - and was there ever a question not to shoot weddings?
 I've always been drawn to human faces - even when drawing by hand. I love the way people look - the lines, the personality, the eyes! Of all races and ages - everyone has a story to tell. It is so interesting to be able to catch that in an image. Weddings just seemed right - so many emotions, so many people - and shooting all this under pressure too. I generally prefer working in pressured situations - so weddings were perfect. The adrenaline rush of turning up at a venue to start the day is so exciting - it feels amazing - all you want to do is create! I often forget to eat and drink - its usually my assistant that forces me to refuel at around the 10 hour mark.

5. Which moment do you think is the most important to capture during a wedding day?

There isn't one single moment as such - it's all important - each section of the day leads into the other - they are all parts of the same story. Plus, it's not down to me to place importance on one part over another - it's someone else's day, it's my job and duty to make sure I record that day as best as possible.

6. Have the process of creating your own unique style, been a lot of compromise, or have you always held on to your beliefs in your art?

Not really a compromise - I definitely have my own preferences of what i like to shoot and don't, but I'm also a service provider - there are some things i prefer over others but that doesn't mean I won't photograph them - it just means I won't photograph them as much. For example, I don't have kids yet - so photographing toddlers is a real challenge, so I stay away from that until I feel I am ready - be it emotionally, mentally or technically, or all of the above. It's a great challenge to do something that you may not be good at or may not like as much - it pushes you to venture out of your own bubble and see the world with fresh eyes.

7. What is your favorite moment during a wedding?
Ceremony - every time. The vows especially - I often cry! The first dance too - they always look so happy and relaxed! And once the party music starts, I like to secretly shake my stuff as I photograph the guests - tiny hip shaking to the beat.... it's always at that point i always feel sad that I will be leaving them soon.

8. What do you love about weddings?

I love how open people are - the emotions are so raw and on display. It's the one day we want the world to know exactly how we feel - it's so rare, and that's why it's so special. And of course, who doesn't love a pretty wedding? I am a total sucker for a pretty dress and a bespoke stationery suite!

9. Do you ever get emotional shooting a wedding?
Oh yes, all the time - if i didn't, i dont think i could do my job well. It's an emotional day - you can't approach it as a robot - it's all about empathy. I love to cry at weddings - i want to feel what they feel. I honestly think it makes me better at seeing.

10. What is your strength being you - the way you see it?
Friendly i think. I've been told by brides that I make them feel at ease - thats a really nice thing to hear. I want my couples to relax and enjoy being photographed - the way we make our subjects feel is key to how they will look in their images.

11. What makes your heart skip a beat - both professionally and private?
Professionally - seeing a photograph that makes me feel 10 again - the adrenaline rush - why, how, when, who - all these questions come rushing in - I need to know more! Away from photography - is it cheesy to say "my husband"? (NO! We love that!)

12. What is your ambition and your goals?

I'm sure every creative says this and I'm definitely no different - to always improve and to shoot more personal work. I have never tried large format photography, maybe one day. Or having my own darkroom.

13. Will you ever host a workshop?

Maybe - but only if i have something to say thats of genuine value to someone. So far, I'm still learning. I've done a bit of public speaking a few times on different subjects in my previous career - some I bombed - some I did ok - overall, ummm, it's actually quite scary!

14. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

On a beach in Bahamas, in a bikini, with a pina colada, recuperating from shooting a wedding.... is that too specific? Kidding. 5 years is a long time - I honestly have no idea. Plus, I'd rather not plan that far - makes it a bit dull when you finally get there.

15. In Scandinavia many envy the natural light and nature, from warmer and exotic sides of the world during weddings. What do you as international photographer see as beauty and 'frameworthy' in Norway, and Scandinavia, shooting weddings here? 
I have never been there, but I would love to visit. It makes me think of untamed rawness, wild romance and mood, excitement. Plus I love the Scandi design style, which I'd love to see in a wedding.

16. If you could choose a fantasy celebrity wedding -  who would it be?
Scarlett Johansson marrying Jake Gyllenhaal - would make for the sexist couple portraits, don't you think? (We sure do!)

17. Who or what makes you laugh really hard?

My husband - his sense of humour is so similar to mine - we are like 5 year old kids sometimes. I love the british sense of humour - it's so unique and witty - i also love the fact it confuses the hell out of non-Brits.

18. What do you take away from the weddings you shoot?

How beautifully fragile people are - we are just a bundle of conflicting emotions and we are all just trying to have someone love us.

19. Who is your inspiration in life - professionally and private?
This is totally cheesy but my mum - she is the most diplomatic, kind, generous, insightful person I know.

20. The website and the design tell a lot about the photographer we think. Your website and design are very simple and elegant, why is that important to you, if so?
I love simple, understated things that are made well, from the finest materials possible - be it for clothes, furniture or food - it's all about quality, not quantity. I am a total girl so I love pretty things too, so pale shades, gold tones, and i also love what i would call more masculine design - simple shapes and lines that are bold and defining. I tried to combine all of that in my branding - although its always a work in progress, ha!

21. How important is marketing in photography?
As important as it is to any other business. We have a product to sell and we want the world to know. Marketing comes in so many different guises - it doesn't have to be a dirty word anymore. You can do it in so many different ways.

22. If you were to give the scandinavian brides one piece of advise - what would it be?
Fall in love with your photographer - and they will love you back tenfold and give you the most amazing piece of themselves and their art. Be brave with your wedding - be selfish even - do what's right for you, not what tradition asks. Everyone always says "have fun", but actually it's the ultimate truth, have fun!

23. Coffee or Tea - Beer or Wine?
Oh god, tea all the way. I drink up to 12 cups a day during winter. Im sure its just pure caffeine in my veins by now.

24. What motivates you in your work?
The unknown - every job and commission has something new to learn and experience.

25. What do you want your couples to take away from their wedding photos and the experience - and how to you get them at ease?
An enjoyable, relaxed, highly professional, seamless and luxury experience - that they are being looked after by the best and that nothing is impossible. I want them to feel excited and proud of their photographs.

26. Who is your typical client?

Someone who is confident in their vision for their big day and isnt scared to break the rules to achieve what they want. Life is too short to be living by other people's rules - especially on your wedding day!

27. What is the most beautiful destination you've shot a wedding?
Provence - that light!

28. When did you decide to do your kind of weddings, or were there ever a question not, to shoot your distinctive style?
The more I shot the more I realised what I like and what I don't. I loved seeing film images so I made the decision to switch to film.

29. Do you see the world as your marked, or are you focusing on specific parts of the world?
I love Europe but equally i love Asian landscape. I'd love to shoot in Bali one day. I have never been to the Caribean so maybe that could be on the wishlist too.

30. Who is your style icon of all time - in photography and life?
Err... no single person sadly... that would be too dull i think... so many people have so many interesting things about them, I'd feel rude to just focus on one!

 31. What do you love about life?
Food, laughter, friendships, truth, tea, pancakes, holidays, sunshine, flipflops... and more...

32. What makes you cry?
For happy things, reunions. For sad things, animals in pain.

33. Do you ever feel like following the 'crowd' - or trends in the industry?
Ha, yeah, sometimes - who doesn't? I'd be lying if I said i didn't - we all get influenced by others. It's what you do with it that counts - if it's a blatant copy, thats really not cool at all. If it encourages you to think out of your box and create something new, then thats progress. I would hate copying someone's work - what's the point? That won't buy me any kudos points with clients or my industry peers - you simply become "just like everybody else", and in a competitive industry such as ours its important to stand out, and that only comes with a unique look and a unique product offering. I don't get people who only want to recreate someone else's hard work - it's lazy and it makes for dull art.

34. Would you or/and have you ever said no to a wedding that you didn't feel was a match for your photography style?
Not often, but yes. In a creative industry, we do things that we truly believe in. I put my life and soul into my work and I always try to over-deliver. Therefore, it's important to connect with your clients - if the connection is not there, or they require something I cant produce, then I step away. In the long run it's better for them and it's better for me - everyone wins. Its not always easy to say no - but it's something im trying to get used to with time.

35. Any tip on how to attract the dream clients?
Be yourself and you will attract those like you i guess. No point in being fake.

36. Who or what gives you goosebumps?

People who are burning with passion about something. So so powerful to watch.

37. If you were to style your dream wedding shoot, how would it look?
A really boho take on a luxe wedding with a twist of surreal .... Long hair on both the bride and the groom, a forest wedding setting, all the guests including the bride in outlandish haute couture dresses, a groom with a beard in a sharp suit, lots of cutely dressed kids and pets everywhere, champagne and caviar on tap, dita von teese and cirque du soleil type of entertainment... basically my ideal wedding would be one styled by the incredible Fiona Leahy of Fiona Leahy Design - it would be incredible to shoot one of her masterpieces.

38. Do you get inspired by other wedding photographers?

Yes, most definitely - there are amazing artists within the wedding world. Jose Villa, Elizabeth Messina, Leo Patrone (he shot our wedding and I absolutely love our images!), Aaron Delesie, KT Merry, Lisa Lefkowitz.

39. Describe your style in 3 words?

Timeless, elegant, understated.

40. Winter or Summer - Spring or fall?

Summer. I love being in a bikini, or a summer dress and sandals. It all feels so carefree. Spring - new beginnings and so much colour everywhere! Oh and baby animals - is there anything cuter than a lamb?!

41. Why did you choose film over digital photography, and when did that change happen, if there was a change?
Back in 2009. I saw Jose, Messina and Canlas' work, and there was never ever going to be going back to digital. I spent a few days training with Jose at his private 1-1 workshop back in 2010 and that experience has led me to fully embrace film - it was an incredible experience and I really can't thank Jose enough for making me "see the light" - literally. He is an amazing teacher and I owe so much to him.

42. What do you love about film?
It has an unquantifiable nature. I love that you can tell that a film image is different, but most people dont know why. I guess what im trying to say is that it feels mysterious.

43. If you you weren't a photographer - what would you do for a living?
Maybe in another lifetime, I would like to be a vet.

44. If you could choose any wedding photographer first hand, to have in front of your camera, who would you do a portrait session of?

Can i pick 2? Girl; Elizabeth Messina - she oozes understated sexy to me thats so quietly confident, it's really enticing. Boy; Aaaron Delesie - I know so little about him and id love to find out more, he has a cheeky look in his profile, and he seems really playful and I'd love to capture that.

45. Your favorite quote.
"If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need." (i think its by Cicero?) - This is a recent addition to my favourite quotes list if there is such a thing -  but I love it - it makes me think of quiet moments of contemplation - something i hardly get these days, so maybe thats why its striking a chord right now. It's my husband's favourite quote too - he is a garden designer, so for him it has a whole different extra layer of meaning.

46. What is your definition of Love?

Looking at someone and wanting to know more about them - no matter how long you have known them. I want that feeling to be there at 40, 60, 80, 100 even!

For real life wedding by ANETA MAK PHOTOGRAPHY, click HERE.

PLEASE SHOW HER SOME LOVE, AND FOLLOW HER ON FACEBOOK - INSTAGRAM - TWITTER AND PINTEREST. VISIT HER BLOG FOR EVEN MORE INSPIRATION.

TUSEN TAKK - THANK YOU SO MUCH ANETA MAK!

AMANDA THOMSEN PHOTO - THE INTERVIEW | INTERVJU MED AMANDA THOMSEN PHOTO | BRYLLUPSFOTOGRAF | WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

I vår serie THE INTERVIEW, intervjuer vi bryllupsfotografer vi beundrer på mange grunnlag. Dette for å få vite mer om merkevaren deres, hvem som er 'bak kamera', og hva de tenker om seg selv og sin profesjon. Vi håper at våre intervjuer er til inspirasjon, både for kommende bruder, og andre fotograf kolleger. For oss er det viktig at de har en tydelig merkevare, en unik kvalitet og integritet. Som en ekstra bonus digger NWB fotografer med kul attitude, og tydelig fremstår som ekte vare. Vi ønsker å inspirere også de utenfor fotografsfæren med personlige spørsmål, som kan gi oss et glimt av menneskene bak alt det vakre visuelle. Hvem er de som fanger de store øyeblikkene i livene våre på så sjelsettende vis. Hva liker de, hva drømmer de om, og hva driver de? Denne gangen er det dyktige AMANDA THOMSEN PHOTO, som vi var så heldig å få stjele litt tid av. NWB falt helt pladask for Amanda sine bilder første gang vi så dem, og traff rett i hjertet. Hun blander perfekt det stylishe med hjerte, det ekte & råe portretterer hun med raffinement og eleganse. Vi 'tror' alltid på det Amanda tar bilder av og viser oss, og bildene er som hentet ut fra reportasjer i de kuleste magasinene som W, Harpers Bazaar, Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair osv. Hun gir oss sjel med stil.

In our series THE INTERVIEW, we interview wedding photographers we admire in different ways. We want to know about their brand, how they work, who's behind that lens, and what are they thoughts about their work and life. NWB hope that our interviews are an inspiration for brides to be, as well as fellow photographers in the industry. It is important for us that the selective photographers have recognizable brand, a unique quality, and integrity. We also like the extra flavor, such as a cool attitude, a backbone, and a funnybone. And by getting to know the people behind all that visual beauty, we also want to inspire everyone who is intrigued by getting to know people, life and love. Who are they? The ones that capture our lives important moments in such profound ways; what are their dreams, and what drives & thrives them? NWB try to give you the answers. This time it's the really talented AMANDA THOMSEN PHOTO. We fell in love with her work by the first glance at her work, she hit our heart - hard. She mixes up the stylish with pure heart, the real & raw with such sophistication and elegance. We always 'believe in' what Amanda's photographs, and her images are like the ones we see in magazines like W magazine, Rolling Stone, Harpers Bazaar, Vanity Fair and so on. She gives us soul with a stylish twist.

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1. When and how did you 'fall into' the photography business?
Ever since I remember I loved looking at images; the old albums from my parents, magazines, photography books and movies. I was never a big reader and not particularly good in school.  I was definitely better to the creative subjects than the more literal ones. After high school I had no idea in which direction to go and what I wanted to be. Photography has always interested me, but I never dreamt that I could live from it. I decided to take a photography course, which led me to take a BA in Adv. & Editorial photography in England, and there I found my passion in life and have never looked back since.

2. Photographing is a very personal matter, and are often unique because of the photographer, and how he or she sees it - what do believe wedding photography should be about?
Wedding photography has become a huge business industry, but I believe that being a photographer no matter for what it is, it is your duty to document with love, passion and respect everyone and everything you see, from the moment you come till the moment you leave.

3. Have the process of creating your own unique style, been a lot of compromise, or have you always held on to your beliefs in your art?
I have always liked to push myself a bit further than the normal, but it is not until some years ago that I dared to really just follow my guts. I still do some compromises because it is my job to make my customers happy, but I am lucky that my customers trust me and hires me for the style I have and the way I work. If they ask me to do something different from what I am and can, I let them know that they should maybe find another photographer that has the style they are looking for.

4. When did you decide to do weddings - and was there ever a question not to shoot weddings?
When I finished my photography BA, there was no way I would shoot weddings, it was the most stressful and back then also the worst I could imagine. I probably started like many photographers do, by shooting my friends weddings and then it just went from there. The more I did the more I liked it and now I see it very different, now it's something I have specialized in and with lots of years of experience I don’t see it as scary or stressful, now I see it as a great opportunity to meet and photograph new people in new ways.

5. What do you love about weddings?
I love when weddings are unique, when rules are broken to follow the couples own wishes of what a wedding should be like and then I love all the things in between the big moments of a wedding day. But mostly if I click with people I love photographing them no matter if it is at their wedding or a normal day of the week.

6. How would you describe your style in five words?
I often get people saying, this is such an Amanda picture and people hire me now because of my style.  I think you could say it is colorful and creative, but still honest, and then I like it to be fun and stylish.

7. What is your favorite moment during a wedding?
Could be at any time, any moment of the day.  I easily get really exited and I can get it many times during a wedding. It can be due to a cool location, a beautiful dress, a super fun make-up artist, a dog, a sweet mother, the right light, the way the couple look at each other. Anything from the moment I arrive to I leave, could turn me on. I can get really high sometimes for very small things, and then I am like a kid in a candy shop, and can't stop shooting.

8. Which moment do you think is the most important to capture during a wedding day?
I think all the moments of a wedding day are important, from the morning to the late evening .. Especially all the moments that are not being captured by the guests .. so all the moments in between the “big” moments.

9. Do you ever get emotional shooting a wedding?
Oh yes! very. I see my customers as friends, even if I hardly know them.  Being a wedding photographer you are part of a very private and intimate day, and lots of emotions are shared.

10. What is your strength being you and with your background - the way you see it?
I care a lot about people. What and how people are feeling and will feel when they see the wedding pictures again. I have had a million of different jobs in the caring sector and I have travelled a lot, so I feel comfortable around all kind of people, and so it is easy to put myself in their situation. Also I hate being photographed, so I know how hard it can be to be in front of the camera, all in all I think I am good at making people relax.

11. What makes your heart skip a beat - both professionally and private?
All the things I have already mentioned and 100 of other things! People I love. Being surrounded with passionate people, music, traveling, great images, the sun (I love the sun), creative project with talented and enthusiastic people, and doing things that I don't really dare during but when doing it I love it! (surfing, skiing, diving, river rafting ..).

12. What is your ambition and your goals for Amanda Thomsen Photo?
I have already reached some goals that I didn't even think could be possible, and I am really happy where I stand now.  My ambition and goals is to keep getting all kind of interesting assignments and keep loving it as much as I do now.

13. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A still happy and passionate photographer living with my kids, husband and cats somewhere warm.

14. Will you ever host a workshop?
I have been part of a workshop this year in Spain with two Spanish colleagues, and yes, I will definitely do more.

15. In Scandinavia many envy the natural light and nature, from warmer and exotic sides of the world during weddings. What do you as a photographer see as beauty and 'frameworthy' in Norway, and Scandinavia, shooting weddings here? 
I have never shot a wedding in Norway, that is already a reason for me to love to shoot a wedding there. The light in Scandinavia can be beautiful in its own way, and when it is cloudy and rainy it just brings a nostalgic and romantic feel to it.

16. If you could choose a fantasy celebrity wedding - who would it be?
Mmmm can’t really think of any right now. There aren’t any celebrities in particular on my list, but sometimes I meet some really interesting people where I wish I could be the photographer capturing their wedding.

17. Who makes you laugh?
My husband Philippe and my 13 year old niece Therese.  I also really enjoy following George Takei on facebook!

18. What do you take away from the weddings you shoot?
New friends, life experience and great pictures.

19. Who is your inspiration in life - professionally and private?
My dad for always being creative and having an alternative way of thinking, my husband for always always saying yes for new experiences, no matter how crazy they are, and different people I meet on my way.

20. How important is marketing in photography?
Very, but I have never been good at it. Getting better, but could definitely do much better.

21. The website and the design tell a lot about the photographer we think. Your website and design have a clean design, why is that important to you if?
Oh my website. A never ending story. It's like that because I have done it myself and that's how I know how to do it. And yes at the contrary of my home and pictures, I like it to be simple.

22. Will you be shooting a wedding in Scandinavia and Europe?
I am based in Denmark so I have many weddings here, but I am getting more and more destination weddings and I love travelling so I am privileged that I can combine the two things.

23. Your images looks like the one we see in magazines like W Magazine, Harpers Bazaar, Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair; magazines with an edge - how important is that for you?
Oh, really? Wow, thats a nice compliment,  Thank you!! I love looking at images in the good quality magazines and photography books.  This has always been a big and expensive hobby of mine.  I guess this has influenced my style more thanI thought.

24. If you could choose any wedding photographer first hand to have in front of your camera, who would you do a portrait session of?

No one, I would be too nervous to photograph any photographer I admire.

25. What do you want your couples to take away from their wedding photos and the experience - and how do you get them at ease?
To remember their wedding day all over again and more .. I try to be very honest from the first contact I have with them. I tell them what I can do for them and sometimes also things I wont be able to do, so there are not bigger expectations than the ones they can expect. I put my couples at ease by being myself and honest from the moment I meet them.

26. Describe your style in 3 words?
Professional, creative and honest taken with a lot of passion.

27. What is the most beautiful destination you've shot a wedding?
Don’t know. I have been so many beautiful places. Maybe Spain.

28. When did you decide to do alternative weddings, or were there ever a question not to shoot your distinctive style?
I have always thought going with the stream was boring, and I like to do things my own way, but it is not until a couple of years and a lot of years of experience that I dared to start breaking the rules and following my guts. I suppose that I attract customers that have it the same way. I often have customers who would not normally hire a photographer, but hire me because they identify themselves in what I do.

29. Do you see the world as your marked, or are you focusing on specific parts 
of the world?
Yes I definitely see the world as my marked (playground) The more I travel the smaller the world becomes .. I have never felt like I belong anywhere specific and if I am with nice people it doesn’t matter where in the world I am.

30. Who is your style icon of all time?
Don’t really have any. I love to see people who dare to be themselves, are passionate and who follow their dreams no matter how difficult it is. They inspire me and I admire them.

31. Do you pay attention to other wedding photographers work?

I used to look at other wedding photographers for inspiration, but now that I found my own style I try to get inspired by other things. I will always try and attend other photographers workshops, because I can always learn more and get better and better.

32. What makes you cry?
Last time I cried (happy tears) was watching the video from The Fine Brothers "Kids React To Gay Marriage".

33. Do you ever feel like following the 'crowd' - or trends in the industry?
Yes and no. Mostly not, but it is difficult to not get inspired lightly by trends, but when it becomes so obvious that I notice I often get motivated to do something different, but then it might be because it is slowly becoming a new trend without me even knowing.

34. Would you or/and have you ever said no to a wedding that you didn't feel was a match for your photography style?
Yes, I try to guide people to choose the right photographer for them, and I know I am not for everyone’s taste, so if someone wants something different I try to recommend them other photographers.

35. How do you attract the clients that want you, and your style & work?
By being honest with the things I show on my website and the things I write on my blog and facebook.

36. Who or what makes you happy - really happy?
Who: My husband and people I have in my life and new people I meet. What: all the things I have already mentioned and a when I do a good job.

37. If you were to style your dream wedding shoot, how would it look?
An outdoor wedding full of love and life music played by friends and lots of dancing, somewhere warm.

38. What do you love about love?

The untold, the communication and the mutual respect between people who love each other.

39. What motivates you in your work?

My main motivation is making my clients happy and satisfied.  But another big motivation of mine is to share my images with others, showing them a bit of my world. I am very privileged that I get to photograph all kind of people and cultures, so I find it important to share it. In Denmark we all look and live quite alike each other, and we don't like to stick out too much. This motivates me to photograph people who goes against this mainstream,  individuals who has their own unique way of being and living, and hopefully it can make others see the beauty in this.

TUSEN TAKK  - THANK YOU SO AMANDA THOMSEN PHOTO!

PLEASE SHOW HER SOME LOVE ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER, AND HER BLOG.

Du kan også se hennes publiseringer her hos THE NORWEGIAN WEDDIING BOG ved å klikke HER.

2 BRIDES PHOTOGRAPHY - THE INTERVIEW | INTERVJU MED 2 BRIDES PHOTOGRAPHY | BRYLLUPSFOTOGRAF | WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

2 BRIdES PHOTOGRaPHY

I vår serie THE INTERVIEW, intervjuer vi bryllupsfotografer vi beundrer på mange grunnlag. Dette for å få vite mer om merkevaren deres, hvem som er 'bak kamera', og hva de tenker om seg selv og sin profesjon. Vi håper at våre intervjuer er til inspirasjon, både for kommende bruder, og andre fotograf kolleger. For oss er det viktig at de har en tydelig merkevare, en unik kvalitet og integritet. Som en ekstra bonus digger NWB fotografer med kul attitude, a backbone, and a funnybone. Vi ønsker å inspirere også de utenfor fotograf sværen med personlige spørsmål, som kan gi oss et glimt av menneskene bak alt det vakre visuelle. Hvem er de som fanger de store øyeblikkene i livene våre på så sjelsettende vis. Hva liker de, hva drømmer de om, og hva driver de? Denne gangen er det de superkule tjejerna bak 2 BRIDES PHOTOGRAPHY, som vi var så heldig å få stjele litt tid av. NWB har lenge vært fan av disse som balansere så fint med det vakre & unike med sitt spesielle sæpreg. Også er vi selvfølgelig fan av kule damer som vet hva de vil, og får det til. Yay - for girlpower!

In our series THE INTERVIEW, we interview wedding photographers we admire in different ways. We want to know about their brand, how they work, who's behind that lens, and what are they thoughts about their work and life. NWB hope that our interviews are an inspiration for brides to be, as well as fellow photographers in the industry. It is important for us that the selective photographers have recognizable brand, a unique quality, and integrity. We also like the extra flavor, such as a cool attitude, a backbone, and a funnybone. And by getting to know the people behind all that visual beauty, we also want to inspire everyone who is intrigued by getting to know people, life and love. Who are they? The ones that capture our lives important moments in such profound ways; what are their dreams, and what drives & thrives them? NWB try to give you the answers. This time it's the really cool chicks behind the brand 2 BRIDES PHOTOGRAPHY, we were lucky enough to steal some precious time from. We've been a fan of their inspirational & unique work for such a long time, and are so grateful to be able to share this with our readers. And we have a passion for cool women who know what they want, and go after it. Yay to girlpower!

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1. When and how did you 'fall into' the photography business?
We both have a degree from university in commercial photography and met there 10 years ago. Before that we both worked as photographers for a few years. A mutual love for art, creativity and design led us down this path.

2. Photographing is a very personal matter, and are often unique because of the photographer, and how he or she sees it - what do 2BP believe wedding photography should be about?
For us it is very much a mix of fine art portraiture and storytelling, our unique vision of a wedding day, how we saw it, the mood, the emotions and the beauty of it all.

3. Have the process of creating your own unique style, been a lot of compromise, or have you always held on to your beliefs in your art? 
Remember film? You know the one you put in a camera and then develop? We not only remember it, we love and embrace it. Why? How the images looks speak volumes them selves, but if we had to say a few reasons for using it it is simple: It's the glow, the grain, the richness, the softness and the colors that can't be replicated. The honesty. The raw organic quality that make moments somehow feel more authentic. We are always thrilled at how our film images turn out and our clients are too.

4. When did you decide to do weddings - and was there ever a question not to shoot weddings?

When we started our business we searched for an opportunity and angle were two photographers was actually an advantage. Few photographers worked together back then, and no one in Sweden. So for us it was a way to shoot and work together. Everyone who has shot a 15 hour wedding knows how hard it is, like think of the small things. If you are two, one can take brake for five minutes or have a meal or go to the bathroom while the other one is covering.

5. Which moment do you think is the most important to capture during a wedding day?

There are obviously a few key moments but it is so more than that. The whole story is far more important when put together. But on Scandinavian weddings we'd say when the bride and groom see each other for the first time, walking down the aisle, reading the wows, the kiss, the congratulations and hugs from family and loved ones after the ceremony, the first dance as husband and wife.

6.  Do you shoot digital and film - or only one of them?

Hybrid. Mostly film but digit definitely has it's place too. Dark receptions for example, then we bring our our Mark III's and they rock dark venues.

7. What made you want to start a brand together, and not on your own?

We were friends, best friends for along time before we started this venture so 2 Brides Photography was our idea of making it possible to work together.

8. Do you shoot together, or separately? 

Mostly together but we do have assignments separately as well. 

9. Do you ever get emotional shooting a wedding?

Oh yes, ALL the time! We cry at almost every wedding we shoot.

10. What is your strength being you - the way you see it?

We complement each other and have different strengths. Sabina is very soft, calm and caring, Isabelle is more extrovert and good at making people do what she wants without them knowing it.

11. How would you describe your style in five words.

We leave it up to others to describe our work, we just do our very best to create and capture lasting memories for our clients.

12. What is your ambition and your goals for 2BP? 

We don't know where this might take us but it's for sure a good ride. We could say we'd love to shoot a wedding over seas or win some award but in the end it's not what's this is about. We do this because we couldn't imagine doing anything else.

13. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Who knows, we just take it one year at a time.

14. Will you ever host a workshop?
Yes, we had one last year and one this year. Once a year is perfect, it is fun, exciting and so rewarding.

15. Do you pay attention to other wedding photographers work?
We have few select that we follow.

16. In Scandinavia many envy the natural light and nature, from warmer and exotic sides of the world during weddings. What do you as international photographer (from Scandinavia) see as beauty, and 'frameworthy' in Norway, and Scandinavia, shooting weddings here?

We love the light in Scandinavia during the warmer part of the year, it is golden! The only issues we have is during fall and winter, we don't have enough light unfortunately which makes it a challenge, at least when you shoot film. Also the nature is so diverse, from the woody northern parts of Scandinavia to the south's flatness and open fields. We adore the archipelago, so amazingly gorgeous and a favorite place to shoot.

17. What do you take away from the weddings you shoot?

The joy of preserving a fleeting moment and give it back in the form of a beautifully curated selection of photographs.

18. Would you or/and have you ever said no to a wedding that you didn't feel was a match for your photography style?

Yes, for the client sake. They would certainly not have been happy with us and every bride and groom deserves what's best for them and sometimes it's not necessarily us

19. When did you decide to do your kind of weddings, or were there ever a question not, to shoot your distinctive style?

It's a something that develops over years, get refined and strengthened. It is not a choice - it is a state of mind.

20. Do you see the world as your marked, or are you focusing on specific parts of the world?

Sweden - Europe - Worldwide.

21. What is your favorite moment during a wedding?

When the groom sees the bride for the first time and the actual ceremony, especially if they have written their own wows. That is very powerful.

22. The website and the design tell a lot about the photographer we think. Your website and design are very delicate, feminine and beautiful, why is that important to you, if so?

Our design is us, it fits our style of photography as well as our personalities and what we are drawn to. Isabelle designed the website, and our blog is now getting a similar more seamless design as well.

23. How important is marketing in photography? 

Very, but it is imperative to market in the right places. In our case it is to be able to show our work on blogs we feel have the same asthetic values and visions as we have.

24. Do you ever feel like following the 'crowd' - or trends in the industry?
Yeah sure. It is hard not to. Every now and then we take a long, hard look at what we are doing and talk about it. But, we have noticed that we look less and less at other peoples work and by focusing more on what we do, we create better and have more fun doing it.

25. Any tip on how to attract the dream clients?
Our ideal client is much like us. Likes to travel, is wild at heart, loves the same music and appreciate good photography and are into art and design. They are not prejudice and they have an open mind. So, wanna have interesting clients, be an interesting person.

26. What motivates you in your work? 
The love and happiness in our clients eyes on their wedding day and their excitement when they receive their images. We try to go into every new shoot with an open heart, a blank canvas. Never to stagnate, push our selves to do better, think in new ways, not be afraid of failure. We always say on the morning of every new wedding, this is going to be the best adventure ever.

27. What do you want your couples to take away from their wedding photos and the experience - and how to you get them at ease?

It is hopefully most of all FUN! We get them to relax by being us, having a good time when we work together, it's a team effort really. That's why it is so important that we are a good match!

28. What is the most beautiful destination you've shot a wedding?
We can't name one, but 3! Positano, Italy. Harahorn, Norway and Gotland, Sweden.

29. If you could choose a fantasy celebrity wedding -  who would it be?
That's a very hard one, but if we had to pick it would be Eva Mendes & Ryan Gosling, are they married yet by the way?

30. If you were to style your dream wedding shoot, how would it look?
It would be a relaxed outdoors affair, a girl with flowers in her hair and why not in the area of Big Sur. One of the most beautiful locations in the world.

31. Describe your style in 3 words?

Personal style; Hippie boheme chic, or photography style? Let others describe...

32. Who is your style icon of all time - in photography and fashion? 
In photography we both have had several inspiration sources, maybe not the obvious ones, but during university years we were huge fans of photographers like Joel-Peter Witkin, Anders Petersen, Nan Goldin. Pretty far from wedding photography, we know. In fashion; style icon of all times James Dean, all the way.

33. What do you love about life?
The amazing wonder of life it self, this is not a rehearsal peeps, this is the real show! Go live it to the fullest, every day!

34. What makes you cry?
A good book, an honest word of appreciation, the love in our husbands or children's eyes.

35. Coffee or Tea - Beer or Wine?
Coffee and wine please.

36. Who or what makes you really really happy? 
Sunshine, awesome music our families.

37. If you could choose any wedding photographer first hand, to have in front of your camera, who would you do a portrait session of?
Pia Clodi from Austria. Because she is not only insanely talented but also crazy beautiful.

38. If you you weren't a photographer - what would you do for a living? 
Isabelle - I've worked in a tattoo parlour and with theater so definitely something like that. Sabina - Caring for others, maybe as a midwife or a nurse.

39. Who is your inspiration in life - professionally and private? 

Our families of course, but we also get inspired by other artists, musicians, painters and designers. Right now we are totally sold on Ryan Bingham, can't stop listening.

40. What makes your heart skip a beat - both professionally and private?
Gorgeous light, sunsets, vast open landscapes and bold colors.

41. Who or what makes you laugh really hard?
Our own mistakes, quick and clever jokes and the movie "I love you man" with Paul Rudd and Jason Segel, if you haven't seen it - do it!

42. What is your definition of Love?
Love is unconditional, i is trust, it is compassion, it is attraction and it is also passion. But who's to say what love really is other than the one who carries it in their heart.

43. What do you love about weddings?

What's not to love? It's beauty and love and story to be told and each and every wedding is unique. We'd like to think it is the best job in the world.

44. If you were to give the scandinavian brides one piece of advise - what would it be?

Please, please let go of the strapless dress. No, for real. Be you. Design the day after what you like to do, as a couple. If you like to party, have a awesome party, club the night away. If you like to be outdoors, have an al fresco dinner. If you like to travel, invite the closest ones to join you for a destination wedding on a location you always dreamed of. We have seen some utterly gorgeous brides with impeccable taste trow it all out the window as soon as they become brides. Stick to YOUR taste, what you'd usually wear and how you'd usually ware your hair. Leave it out, be wild if your are wild at heart. Don't be tamed into a form of how bridal stores dictate, there are way more dresses, shoes, stuff to choose from and don't be afraid to do it. We can see it in the US for example, a more relaxed approach towards how a wedding should feel and be like. Get inspired, and follow your heart.

TUSEN TAKK  - THANK YOU SO MUCH 2 BRIDES PHOTOGRAPHY!

PLEASE SHOW THEM SOME LOVE ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM and PINTEREST