Interview with John and Kerry - EastView Photography
Today on "Perspective" we get a sneak peak into the life of a wedding photographer. John and Kerry Chartrand own and operate EastView Photography. Not only does this dynamic duo capture stunning images, they are also incredibly fun people. So much of hiring a photographer is about personality. Personality influences the images and your professional relationship. East View Photography has the entire package. So, brides of KW (and other places - they travel), check out the website, I highly recommend them.
On a personal level, I met this couple at a company Christmas party. I have to say they completely livened up our table. Okay, let's face it, if you can make a corporate dinner enjoyable, well, let's just say they have some mad people skills.
You can check out them out online by going to their
website or
Facebook page. Now for the Q&A session with EastView Photography...
What is the best piece of advice you can give to a bride looking for a photographer?
Meet with your prospective photographer and ask lots of questions. A good fit should mean ideas flow easily back and forth you could see yourself getting along with them on your wedding day! We can’t stress the importance of bride/groom and photographer rapport. It is key to a smooth wedding day!
What is your favorite part of a wedding to photograph?
Tough question...Each component brings with it its challenges and rewards. The father walking his daughter down the aisle always hits a bit of a soft spot and the reception is always a fun party to let loose and catch some great moments.
Have you had anything go wrong at weddings and if so, how did you handle it?
We haven’t had anything go tremendously wrong (knock on wood!) Although there are always small things that pop up and it’s all about being prepared, careful planning and maintaining a professional calm in tricky situations.
What do you think of the wedding industry at the moment and where do you see it in 5 years from now?
The wedding industry is extremely competitive for photographers. Perspectives have shifted from professional photographers to family members with nice cameras. In the coming years, the focus will turn back to higher quality, artistic photography offering professional processing and delivery.
What first attracted you to becoming a photographer?
We;ve always been attracted to capturing emotions, interesting scenes and people so photographing weddings is a natural fit for me.
If you had to choose one lens, which one would it be and why?
Definitely, without hesitation, the Nikon 70-200mm f2.8. This lens does it all, and it does it REALLY well. Without getting too ‘techy’, this lens has a wide aperture and awesome focal range allowing us to shoot in as much natural light as possible.
What advice do you have for amateurs wanting to become professional?
Practice, practice, practice!! Get in touch with a local professional, ask if you could have some questions answered and offer to assist should the occasion arise. You’ll get a feel for the rhythm and pace of a wedding and see if it suits your style.
Where do you get your inspiration?
Our clients drive our inspiration, really. Every occasion we shoot has a different feel and that’s largely because of the clients. Whether they’re playful, romantic, sensuous, funny or just quirky, this will show in their photographs.
John Lyons was a great mentor of mine, so a big thanks to him as well.
Favorite location for a destination wedding?
The first thing that comes to mind on a cold January day includes sun, sand, palm trees and drinks with umbrellas but to be honest, we’d love to shoot just about anywhere!! We’ll happily travel to photograph a wedding, it just adds to the excitement!
