George John is a highly sought-after photographer based in Sydney, capturing luxury weddings, portraiture, and special events. Since launching his own photography brand in 2016, George has documented countless beautiful moments across the globe. His work is an homage to culture, style and love in all their forms. Read our interview with George to get a glimpse of his creative process and pick up some valuable tips.
How did you fall in love with photography? Was there a defining moment when you realized it was your calling?
Photography has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. It is hard to pinpoint a single defining moment, rather countless moments of capturing and freezing beautiful moments in time.
Why weddings? What drew you to this special niche?
Weddings are incredibly unique! They encapsulate an entire spectrum of emotions and storytelling opportunities. What drew me to wedding photography was the chance to be a part of a couple's special day and to document their love story in a way that would be cherished for generations. The mix of love, joy, and genuine moments make weddings a perfect canvas for my passion.
Every photographer has their signature touch. Could you describe your unique style and share how you discovered it?
Mine is characterized by a blend of photojournalism and fine art photography. I strive to capture candid, emotional moments while also creating timeless, artistic images. I discovered this style through years of experimenting and refining my technique. It's about finding the perfect balance between storytelling and artistic expression, creating images that are both evocative and visually stunning.
Weddings are a whirlwind of emotions and fleeting moments. How do you decide what to focus your lens on during such a busy day?
It's all about being in the moment and anticipating what's about to happen. I prioritize capturing genuine emotions, interactions, and unexpected moments. Pre-planning is essential, but being adaptable and attentive to the unfolding events ensures that I don't miss any of the magic that happens throughout the day.
Is there a particular moment during the wedding that you absolutely love capturing? What makes it so special to you?
Oh, there are so many moments that come to mind. It's hard to narrow it down to one! The mornings are special, the moments when the bride is first walking down the aisle, the first dance - I could keep going. I guess that's the beauty of weddings and why we love being able to freeze these moments, from start to end the entire day holds so many dear moments that are fleeting and timeless.
What, in your opinion, makes a good wedding photograph stand out?
A good wedding photograph should be technically excellent but also great at telling a story and evoke emotions. It should capture the essence of the day, the personalities of the couple, and the atmosphere of the event. Lighting, composition, and timing play crucial roles in creating standout images, but it's the emotional connection that truly sets them apart.
Do you offer engagement or pre-wedding shoots? How do these differ from your approach compared to the wedding day?
Of course - we love our pre-wedding photoshoots. These sessions provide an opportunity for the couple to become comfortable in front of the camera and for me to get to know them better. It's a more relaxed and intimate setting compared to the wedding day, allowing for more creative freedom and experimentation. The focus is on capturing the couple's love story in a beautiful location.
Every artist has their dream canvas. Are there any locations or settings where you've always wanted to shoot a wedding?
Italy! It's always been a dream location for me to photograph.
For all the couples out there searching for a wedding photographer, what few insider tips can you share to help them find the right fit?
When choosing your wedding photographer, choose someone whose style resonates with your vision for your wedding. Meet with them to discuss your expectations and ensure a personal connection. Quality matters, and as a boutique-based service, we prioritize unique, personalized experiences over mass production. While budget-friendly options exist, they often sacrifice personalization and quality.
What sets us apart is our commitment to building genuine connections with our couples. Your wedding is personal, and a photographer who connects with you can make a significant difference. Investing in such a photographer ensures your unique story is beautifully and authentically captured.
Lastly, what do you find most fulfilling about being a wedding photographer?
The most fulfilling aspect of being a wedding photographer is the privilege of capturing moments that become treasured memories for couples and their families. It's about creating a visual legacy that will be passed down through generations, and knowing that my work brings joy and nostalgia to people's lives is incredibly rewarding. Being part of such a significant day and contributing to the happiness of others is what makes this profession truly special for me.
