Understanding your photographer's creative vision and inspiration can truly deepen your connection, paving the way for a beautiful collaboration and in turn, friendship. Behind the lens of every camera hides an incredible talent, each with their own unique creative eye shaped by years of experience and growth spilling into their work. One of our truly favorite talents, US wedding photographer Julia Wade, has spent the past 12 years mastering her craft, capturing in time life’s most magical moments. We sit down with her to listen in on all her wisdom, professional insights and her personal photography philosophy, and learn at the heart of it all is the people themselves.
Share a bit about your personal photography philosophy with us! What experiences and influences have shaped your approach to wedding photography?
I would say I am an “experience first” photographer, meaning that I value how couples experience their wedding day above all else. Photography should come second to this. I value connection and showing the clients how they feel about each other, their families and their community. I myself, am very close to my family and friends and I value my time and experiences that I have with them. For me, this is what life is all about and that bleeds directly to my work.
With every wedding being uniquely different, how do you adapt your photography style and approach to fit various themes and locations?
In the same way that themes and locations are different, so are the people. While I certainly adapt my approach to fit locations and days, I think the key is to adapt to the people. My approach to a wedding day is very nuanced and driven by the couple. I think one of my super powers is to be very empathetic and read people quickly. Giving couples what they need during the day is very important to me. This means blending into the scene and quietly capturing the moment when something organic is happening to allow the client to experience it fully. But this also means stepping in and helping when needed.
As someone who's always on the move, capturing love stories worldwide, what tips do you have for couples dreaming of a destination wedding?
I think to really have the destination wedding of your dreams would mean to have it in a place that is very meaningful to you. Most of my clients are bringing their guests to a place they’ve visited their whole lives and feel a lot of nostalgia for. Adding meaning to the place adds more meaning to the day.
How do you keep your photos fresh and modern while making sure they'll still be cherished decades down the line?
First and foremost, the color of the photograph has to be natural. A very heavy filter will date the photo very quickly. More importantly, letting organic moments happen and capturing them differently than you ever have before will keep you fresh and modern. People will always be dynamic and fresh and that will push your imagery to be just the same.
Emotions run high during moments like the first dance or exchanging vows. How do you make sure your photos capture all the feels in the most genuine way?
Logistically, I like a really long lens that can get close to the moment without intruding. For first dances, including more than just the couple in the frame can tell the story and add the emotions of others to the photograph. Storytelling is key!
Picture-perfect memories are what every couple dreams of. How can they get the most out of their special day photos?
I would tell the couple to live their day. Live it to the fullest. I don’t think a wedding day should feel like a photo shoot (or 98% of it!). When you’re laughing, smiling, and fully immersed in the moment, the candids are incredible. When you hire an amazing photographer, we find your perfect angles and best light in those moments. And that is when magic happens! Also, for portraits, it might be helpful to practice in the mirror a bit. What are your favorite angles of your face? Your dress? Suit? But it’s not necessary - your photographer should be able to see those things immediately and pose you perfectly.
What's your process for scouting locations and mapping out your shots before the wedding day?
I am a planner by heart. I come in early and scout the location(s) days before the wedding day. I ask the couple why the venue is important to them and ask them about any special moments that may have happened on the property. This helps me look at the location through a different lens - adding longevity to the imagery.
Being everywhere and nowhere at once is an art! We'd love to hear your tips for staying discreet while still getting the perfect shot.
It's important to know when to not interject in the moment. Too many photographers and videographers insert themselves inappropriately when a client is experiencing something on their wedding day. Be patient and let the moments unfold - it's almost like a sixth sense.
