Way back in the day, when we lived in Pasadena and we had opened our first business having nothing to do with weddings, we needed some head shots. Being a recent bride, I trotted over to the Los Angeles wedding board on The Knot and queried the group for a name of an up and coming photographer. Enter Jordana Hazel, owner of Hazelnut Photography. A recent transplant to LA from North Carolina where she attended Wake Forest University, Jordana ran around the Caltech campus taking formal business shots for us.
When I entered the wedding industry, I knew Jordana and I would meet again, and this time it was a bit different. I visited her charming Hollywood home, which she and her husband have been remodeling since they moved in. Her living room inspires with much of her work adorning the mantel and walls.
Less than two years since first starting her photography business, her client list has exploded. Her work speaks for itself, it is clean and soft, capturing intimate and emotional moments. Other shots are bright and explosive, displaying the subject's excitement or surprise. A growing list of happy clients continues to refer. But do not fret, Jordana has not let it go to her head. She is approachable and down-to-earth; I know she is genuinely interested in taking delectable pictures for each and every client.
Jordana's photos have graced the pages of Ceremony Magazine, and her work has been blogged on wedding sites LA Style Unveiled, Elizabeth Anne Designs, and With This Ring.
What should couples consider when hiring a photographer?
Any photographer you choose, remember you will be with them all day on the wedding day. You want to make sure you like that person. So, although it is said repeatedly, I must agree that personality is paramount. Also, look at the photographer's website for their most current portfolio, and be certain they fit your budget. There are great photographers in a variety of budget ranges.
How can couples cut costs on wedding photography?
Think about what is most important to you. We can cut albums, the amount of Photoshop work, or the engagement shoot to save money. Some clients are not particularly interested in these services. Also, keep in mind that it is not a requirement that I be there for 12 hours, I can cover a lot of ground in 6 to 8 hours.
What are the trends in photographing weddings?
Pure photojournalism is hot. Some clients have no desire for the family shots, although I try to steer them to consider it. Once you get everyone there, it takes no more than 10-15 minutes. Plus parents generally enjoy the family group pictures, it is very traditional.
Another trend I am noticing are couples who are really styling their wedding to make it more about them and their interests. This is really nice, and it allows for maximum creativity.
Who has been most instrumental in your photography career?
My husband Chris, who bought me my first camera. He is my tech guy now, as well as my second shooter. We make a great team and I am so thankful to have his support.
Tell me your favorite flower.
I love peonies. I coveted them for my wedding bouquet, but I had given up, due to our wedding being in January. But, at the last minute my florist found some!
What do you feel makes you different from other photographers?
It feels strange to say this, but I am not that different. We all use the same equipment, the same programs. Where I do attempt to differentiate is in my customer service: responding promptly to emails, being flexible by doing custom packages, forming relationships with each client. I feel that is the right way to run a business and how it should be done.
On the wedding day, what is most challenging for you?
The creative process of photography takes time, and occasionally things happen on the big day where things run behind. If that happens, for example if hair and makeup is running behind schedule, photography can be squished.
What is the craziest thing you have done to get "the shot?"
I photographed a wedding at the Hotel Figueroa, where there is not a lot of outdoor space. I had the bridal party outside, and I was standing on the edge of a pool to get them all in the frame. It was a little freaky.
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