Love Through Every Lens Feature with Curator Photography

How would you describe your photography style, and what makes it unique?

Style is important, but I wish I could tell every wedding couple to consider what experience they’re investing in first. All good art hinges on how it makes you feel, not just how it looks. Think about why Banksy, Van Gogh or even just why strange modern art pieces are so revered. Put simply, it’s because of how they make people
feel. I want my style to be an experience - a good experience - more than anything else. This “experience” I want to offer is essentially the freedom to be present and the confidence of being beautifully remembered. Weddings are a big deal and represent the culmination of plans, prayers, dreams and budgets. It’s a significant moment where two stories become one. I’m there to capture it all so that you can have fun, make memories and take as much of it in as possible. This freedom makes room for emotions, vulnerability and authenticity. I want my images to be filled with that - I call them “soul-soaked” images. Then, when it’s all over, when the years have rolled on, when the memories fade or there are people who want to remember you - I’ve curated a way back into the story and feelings.

Now having said all of that, I do use certain methods for creating these images and it does produce a style. I call it “narrative- focused”, but it’s also sometimes called “cinematic” or “documentary”. I like to approach the images with a combination of story-telling techniques and fine art photography — a blend of candid and prompted. And the end result, an authentic, honest and truthful collection of moments, forever preserved.

What types of moments or details do you focus on capturing to truly tell the story of a couple's special day?

There’s a famous wedding photographer named Nirav Patel who I find inspiring and he uses this beautiful line: “the often overlooked, quiet moments.” This is the substance of my phrase “soul-soaked imagery” and something I’m looking for when shooting. There are lots of important moments on a wedding day and I make sure to capture them well. But it’s the in-between moments that I think makes for a beautiful wedding gallery. The candid photos of you and your friends laughing over canapés, your granny dancing on her chair, your brother’s kid playing in the dirt after the ceremony...your dad fixing your tie, your mom doing the final buttons on your dress, or you two holding hands under the table. These are the in-between moments that make the best art.

It’s also fun to note that with a narrative-focused approach, both the location and any meaningful belongings become story-telling elements. I always take some extra images of the venue and space to set the scene in your gallery. Special items like cuff links, vows or earrings photographed at different times throughout the day
anchor a moving story. These are examples of the cinematic techniques that I use to tell your unique story!

Can you share examples of how your photography style complements different wedding themes or venues?

Sure! Here are some examples of shoots I’ve loved.
You can see how location and special belongings feature. You can also get a feel for some of cinematic techniques and how they tell a story.

What are some key factors couples should consider when selecting your photography style/approach?

Two things come to mind. The first is, and I hope I don’t come off as too pretentious - but I’m genuinely not interested in just showing up on the day, producing 300 images for my couples and then walking away with some extra money. I’m not just a service provider but an artist. If I knew nothing about your story, your family dynamics and what’s important to you I’d only be able to create cookie-cutter, anomic images. I don’t want to do that. And I think other photographers will resonate with me on this too. We’re tasked with documenting such a meaningful moment. Because of this I take couples for coffee or sit on a call and get to know them a little beforehand.

The second thing I think couples should keep in mind with a narrative-approach is that the optional extras in my packages are not up-sells. They’re all ways I’m trying to tap into your story and tell it better. A second photographer documents more of your story, 35mm film captures emotions better than digital, a pre-wedding
couple shoot helps you feel more comfortable with me on your wedding day and high-quality prints create a tangible way back.

How do you ensure your photography style resonates with the couple's personality and wedding vision?

I take all my prospective couples for a coffee or have a video call before I send an invoice and contract. I want to see that we connect — from both sides. In this meetup I explain my approach, walk couples through the difference between trendy and timeless editing styles and how I work on the wedding day. We also build a
vision board together as part of my “experience” so that I can see what you’re imagining.

Wedding Look

The Bridal Look
Shay looked sensational in the Taylor gown from Allora Bridal! This stunning lace masterpiece oozes sophistication, elegance and that quintessential Old Hollywood glam. Perfect for the modern bride who loves a touch of tradition, the Taylor gown features intricate lace details that captivate with every glance. Paired with detachable shoulder bows, it offers a soft, romantic look that’s perfect for making a statement without saying a word. As part of the Elope collection by Made With Love, the Taylor gown delivers luxurious style at an accessible price point - bringing timeless beauty to brides everywhere.

Hair & Makeup
The hair and makeup for Shay’s look was the epitome of elegant sophistication. With a classic, effortless chignon twist up-do, she channeled that old money glamour - timeless, formal, yet perfectly understated. Her makeup celebrated her natural beauty, enhancing her features with a touch of confidence and grace. This refined look is perfect for the bride who wants to exude poise and glamour, embracing her assets while keeping her style effortlessly chic! And to top it all off, the beautiful, bold and show-stopping bouquet from the incredible team at Winter Bird Events.

What a fantastic, detailed overview from Damian! His passion for capturing your love story in its most authentic form shines through in every shot. A true professional, Damian combines artistic direction, expert composition, and an infectious energy that makes him the perfect choice for your big day! Needless to say, the #SAWCY girls highly recommend his exceptional services.