interested in photography

How did you first become interested in photography?

I first started taking photos as a hobby when I was in high school (graduated HS in 2002). Eventually, I went to college initially to become an art teacher, but later switched to photography (with a switch to music– opera vocal performance, sometime in the mix!). I believe Nathan (my husband and the second photographer in our dynamic duo) had a similar experience. He started as a hobby around his high school years, went to college and got a degree in multimedia design (he does our website!), and went back to school to major in art/photography.

What do you enjoy the most about wedding photography?

The couples! Every couple has a different story– I love hearing about them. I also love the traveling aspect (for us anyway– some photographers don’t travel). Being in new places all the time– seeing everything with fresh eyes really makes a difference, and I truly believe it it fosters artistic growth.

How would you describe your photography style?

We describe ourselves as fresh, innovative wedding photojournalists. Our style emphasizes the candid, unposed moment, and because of our art backgrounds, we can always add a creative spin.

What advice would you give a bride who is in the process of picking a photographer?

Style over price! Also, don’t wait until the last minute. We often times book up to 18 months in advance. The good photographers always go first– if there’s a photographer you know you really want, but you know they are very popular, you might even want to pick your date based on their availability to make sure.

From your own experience as a photographer, what advice would you give a bride to ensure her photography session goes smoothly?

Think about a small core group of formal photographs (not a bunch of slight variations) to make the posed session go quickly– some photographers have a shoot list to help you choose. Other than that, relax! Your photographer should be able to give you some suggestions and the action will go from there!

Wedding photographers get to see a lot of what goes on during a wedding. What is one piece of non-photography advice you would give a bride planning a wedding?

Hire a “day-of” wedding coordinator to make sure everyone is where they need to be and when so you don’t have to stress about it. AND if you’re hiring a DJ, have them do a demonstration of their MC skills so you can hear what their presence is like– not just what type of songs they can play for you. A DJ’s speaking voice and flow can make or break a reception.

So tell us a little more about you. Other then photography, what are your hobbies & interests?

We are pretty outdoorsy– we just bought a canoe! We enjoy fishing, camping, and biking. Nate is also training to run the Chicago marathon this fall– he ran Milwaukee’s Lakefront Marathon last year. I also do some small modeling jobs on the side and even do a little double duty at weddings sometimes by singing during the ceremony in addition to being the photographer for the day (don’t worry, Nate covers for me.

Okay the next few weeks, I am going to be introducing you to some of my favorite photographers who have agreed to partner with me in the coming months and share photos from the weddings they shoot this wedding season. I am looking forward to some exciting inspiration from these talented photographers in coming months!

Today - I want to start by introducing you to Adam Buss of Adam Buss Photography. I meet Adam just over a year ago, when he volunteered to take photos for a breast cancer fundraising team I was part of. Here is a recent interview with Adam and some of his past work:)

Tell us a little about how and why you got involved in wedding photography.

I have been interested in Photography for over 10 years but I have only began really pursuing it within the last 4 years. I really enjoy going out and having fun with the wedding party and seeing the faces of the Bride and Groom when I show them their pictures. I try to keep things fun and not in ridged poses.

What advice would you give a bride when it comes to picking a photographer and planning for her wedding photography?

Go with someone who you feel comfortable around and has good rapport, having said that make sure they are within your budget and of course have good shots and ideas. Pre-Wedding day planning is always important to make sure everyone is on the same page.