One of the most important elements of any wedding is how you will capture the moments to last a lifetime. Pictures are the best thing that a couple can take away from the whole wedding experience, which is why I interviewed a young, up and coming photographer with a fresh take on an old standard for any wedding.
Shayna Sherbondy is an amazing freelance photographer with an eye for simplistic beauty and vintage inspiration. Not only is she talented but she is very affordable! Which is a huge plus for anyone planning a DIY wedding. I interviewed Shayna with a few questions and she offered great insight into what makes each wedding a unique experience.
Why are you a photographer?
- I grew up loving art, especially drawing. I took a lot of art classes and filled up a lot of sketch books. Photography is another art form that I fell instantly in love with. The feeling of satisfaction I get when I produce a picture that I love is awesome.
How long have you been taking pictures?
- My sophomore year of high school my dad bought me a digital camera for my birthday. I fell in love with the art of photography, so I saved my money, and I bought my own Cannon Rebel. I've been actively pursuing a career in photography for about 3 years.
How would you describe your photography style?
- It’s hard for me to pinpoint my style... I love simple and natural beauty. Studio photography is definitely not my thing, heavily touched up photos instantly turn me off. Also, I love vintage, I love old fashioned things.
Should the couple tell you exactly what they want as far as style?
- Here is my advice on that, if the photographer you are considering is not your style already, do not hire him/her. Photographers are artists; you cannot guide the work that they will produce. Find a photographer that will fit you as a couple, and you will get great pictures!
How far in advance should a couple book their photographer?
- As soon as possible! There are only so many weekends in a year and those weekends fill up fast. Especially if your wedding is between the months of April and September, the wedding season is short.
What would you suggest a couple wear to their engagement shoot?
- Wear what makes you feel good. Wear clothing that is visually interesting. Wear clothes that are YOU, that fit you as a couple. Do not try to be someone you are not.
What picture combinations are a must have as far as wedding day shots?
- Definitely take time to get pictures with just you and your hunny. You'll always love to look back on them, and it will give you some quiet time together amidst the craziness of the day. Pictures with your best friends, parents, siblings (new siblings included) and your family are a must!
How long after an event will your proofs be ready?
- A minimum of three weeks. Going through photos and editing is a very long process. I obsess over editing until I think they're as perfect as they can possibly be.
What can a couple do to make your job easier?
- Relax. It’s almost impossible to get good photographs from people that I have to direct every move or face they make. Be creative. Shoots produce so much more when clients contribute ideas or props! Contribute things that are special to you as a couple; whether it be ideas, items, or the location.
Summary: Choose the right photographer that is a good fit for you, be yourselves, relax in front of the camera, and be creative! Imaginative locations and/or themes will add so much to the finished product! Personally, I love the action shots. I tell my couples to pretend I'm not there, to interact with each other. Laugh, talk, hug, etc. Natural positions and facial expressions are so much more beautiful than stiff hugs or a fixed smile. If you relax around your photographer your photos will be so much more natural and YOU. Your wedding day will be one of the most memorable days of your life, your photographer is there to capture the awesomeness.
