I recently connected with Sara Gray of Sara Gray Photography when I helped to coordinate a high school reunion. Sara and I went to Jesuit High School, but graduated a few years apart and ran in different circles. Sara is a charmer, she has an engaging personality and truly loves the adventure of photographing weddings. Upon meeting her, I knew I had to interview her and blog about her work. Here are the highlights from our interview.
How would you describe your photography style?
I would describe my style as modern wedding photojournalism. The term 'photojournalism' is tossed around quite freely. However, a true photojournalist will not manipulate a scene to get the shot. He or she will only take pictures of events as they happen. I, however, am not afraid to work a shot to make it look good for my clients. This does not mean I am posing my clients for several minutes, but honestly--you want to look good on your wedding day. I have no problem making small suggestions to ensure the picture looks as good as possible. That said, I still work throughout the wedding day to tell the story, to capture the events as they happen.
Tell me about your training in photography.
I studied journalism at Washington State University, where I worked as a writer for the Daily Evergreen, the school newspaper. Towards the end of my tenure there, I started taking pictures for the paper as well. Upon graduation, I was a photographer for a Washington newspaper, the North Coast News. Being a good writer has helped me be a good photographer, because it requires you to capture a story, as well as pay attention to detail. I have taken classes in photography since then, but am mainly self taught.
What should couples consider as they start their photographer search?
Here I have three suggestions. One, click with the photographer. If you do not have a connection, then do not work with him or her. You want to enjoy the person who will be with you from start to finish on your big day. Two, get the best photographer you can afford. Take a close look at their portfolio. Make certain it looks professional and you like their photos. Third and finally, go with a professional. Many people run photography businesses as a weekend hobby, but I strongly recommend you go with a photographer who does this full time and maintains a legal business. A professional photographer will have the infrastructure to preserve your photos and protect them from loss. Do not go with someone who is not fully invested in the business.
How long do you stay for weddings? Do you have a second shooter?
For weddings, I work between eight and 10 hours. I never double-book weddings. I want to focus on only one big event per day. As for second shooters, they are quite popular right now, and couples often ask about them. For me, they can also be a distraction, and at this point I enjoy shooting weddings solo. I can fully concentrate on getting the right shot, rather than managing another person.
Tell me about these required engagement sessions.
All of my packages include an engagement session. This is good for the clients, because it gives them some fun, relaxed photos of themselves which are perfect for framing or giving to parents. For me, it is invaluable in getting to know the couple. At an engagement photo shoot, I can learn about how the couple photographs. For example, some folks are prone to blinking, for others it is hard to get a natural smile. An engagement session allows me to determine how to photograph them best when it comes to showtime: the wedding day.
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