I was honour to be interview by Kristy from Weddingbuzz couple weeks ago. We had a long chat about my work, my style and my philosophy of wedding photography. And I am so excited Weddingbuzz publish a blog about my story today. And I’d like share it with you all in here.
‘People in the wedding industry create beauty every day, but the actual work is fair from glamorous. It’s fun and satisfying, but it also requires long hours and copious amounts of effort transforming a couple’s dreams into sparkling reality. Working in the wedding industry is as much a labour of love as a way of making a living for our suppliers, like Brisbane wedding photographer Christal Mai, owner of Twin Lotus Production.
Christal has always been creative, having achieved an MA in both Visual Arts and Digital Design, but it wasn’t until 2012 that she took the plunge and fulfilled her dream of photographing weddings. We spoke to Christal to find out more about the woman behind the lens.
Why did you become a wedding photographer?
While I admire other types of photography, it’s weddings that really move me. There’s so much emotion invested in the day – it’s a once in a lifetime event, because no wedding, no couple, is the same. I’ve been doing this for three years and the excitement I feel when I meet a couple and follow them on their journey down the aisle is as strong as ever. I can’t imagine it fading. When I see a groom welling up as he watches his bride walking towards him, or hear the pride in the Father of the Bride’s voice as he gives his speech, well, it’s just the best job ever!
How would you describe your style?
My style is natural and romantic. I am a story teller. My job is giving my clients not only a photographic record of their day, but a way of sharing their story with their children and grandchildren.
It’s clear you love your job. What’s your favourite part?
Definitely the ceremony! That first look when a groom sees his bride, her tears of joy as she says her vows, the way their parents look on them with love and pride as they pass another milestone … I love to capture it all and give them a timeless piece of art so they can enjoy it forever.
What’s the most challenging thing about being a wedding photographer?
There are no second chances in wedding photography. You can set a shot up again, but you’ll never recreate the original emotion and level of excitement when they exchange the rings, have their first kiss, first dance, etc. I am aware of the responsibility my clients place in me to give them value for their fee by producing an album of photos that more than lives up to their expectations.
Do you have a favourite wedding?
All my weddings are wonderful, but the one that stands out most in my mind is Anida and Amil’s, which was a Bosnian wedding in Brisbane. I have photographed Australian, Indian, and Chinese weddings, but this was new for me. Lots of guests had come from Europe and it felt really exotic. There was non-stop dancing and fun at the reception at the Shangri-La Gardens – a fantastic Brisbane Bayside venue.
What questions should couples ask their photographer?
Couples should ask how long photography will take on the day, because I guarantee it’s longer than they think. They, or their wedding planner, should work out a timetable at the pre-wedding consultation with their photographer.
As well as a timetable, couples should also ask their photographer about the style of the finished photos, and discuss any location ideas they have. Your photographer is the one taking the shots but overall process is a collaboration that you need to be happy with.
Finally, have an engagement photo shoot. I always offer this to my clients as a trial when they book a full-day package. It’s a great way for everyone to get comfortable working together, and will help couples relax more in front of the camera on their wedding day.
Can you give any advice to people starting out in the business?
Don’t cut your prices in a bid to attract clients. Value your work. Focus on quality, which means lots of practice and training. A good camera is important, but it’s better to be skilled with the one you have rather than spend a fortune on expensive equipment and take mediocre photos. Your clients deserve the best wedding photos and you won’t get them by cutting corners.’
Original blog from Weddingbuzz, https://www.weddingbuzz.com.au/business-profile/capturing-your-love-story-with-christal-mai/.
