Every so often we like to do a shout out to one of our “friends of the venue”. This one is long overdue. Kristie Lee from KLD Photography has been a cherished friend and supporter of the venue since we first opened our doors at Eleven Eighty. I have mentioned her in other posts tagging her as the “Queen of Candid”. Kristie takes beautiful shots- as you would expect from someone who has made photography her career, but in my opinion, her best work is her candid work – sometimes her photos of “stolen” moments, literally take my breath away.
Not a natural in front of the camera like myself? My experience is that Kristie is funny and engaging and puts you totally at ease. Kristie has been a busy lady welcoming her first bubba into the world whilst continuing to work but we managed to carve out some time recently to find out about the woman behind the camera and her top tips.
Hey Kristie – so how did it all start for you?
I have always had a passion for fashion design and photography. I knew all the way through school that one of these subjects would be my chosen career. I was that person who always had a camera on them. When our yearbook came around – I was the one they came to for photos. I photographed my first wedding the year after I finished school and 11 years on, I am still loving every minute of it.
Why did you choose to specialise in wedding photography?
I was 13 when I attended my first wedding. I literally loved everything about it. I knew then that whatever I did for a career was somehow going to be associated with weddings, I just didn’t, at that stage, know in what capacity. I decided that photography was the route I would take as it was the perfect avenue for my creativity and my love for meeting new people. I feel privileged that I get to capture the best days of someone’s life and I love getting to know the couples I work with. I am a people person who loves a good chat and a laugh, and I feel that this comes through in my work.
How would you describe your photography style?
I use a combination of candid and posed shots to capture the natural emotions and beauty of a wedding day. I use my experience to create stunning stylish shots without the annoying staged or forced experience. I love a good character moment, but I also love to capture the guests and the celebrations. The mix of candid and editorial shots create a unique and beautiful storyboard of a wedding day which can be cherished forever. I’m a candid girl at heart. I love to capture genuine moments. If I was to give myself a tag line it would be “upbeat piccies for laid-back lovers”.
How would you describe your personality/methods/vibe on the day? Who is going to feel comfortable with you?
I’m an extravert who loves to chat. I’m very much a people person and the feedback I get from couples is that I make them feel comfortable. I like to think I can bring those who are a tad shy out of their shells. My goal is for couples to enjoy the process. I love fun and banter and I like to create a fun, authentic atmosphere where everyone is relaxed.
What are your top tips for choosing a wedding photographer?
- Define your style: The first thing to look at when you are looking for a photographer is their style. You want a style that aligns with your vision. Do you want dreamy romantic shots, or do you prefer more of a candid, documentary approach? Explore different photography styles and find the one that speaks to you.
- Do your homework: Look at websites, reviews and dive into social media. This will give you a sense of their vision, personality and professionalism.
- Do you feel comfortable with the photographer? You need to vibe with your photographer. You will be spending more time with them than key members of your bridal party!
- Check that it is actually the person you have bought into who will be there with your big day. I’ve heard stories of photographers taking on 2-3 weddings a day and subcontracting out the extra work. Make sure you know exactly who you are getting on the day.
- Imagine yourself in the photos when you are reviewing photographers work. Do you like the poses?
- Go with your gut. Trust your instincts, go with who you connect with.
What wedding photography trends are you seeing?
First looks is a trend that is becoming bigger, and I really like it. However, do it for the right reasons not just because it’s a trend. I suggest this to couples who are nervous about showing their emotions in front of a big crowd and need a private special moment.
I love a selfie!
Documentary style is amazing in my opinion. Its so much less evasive. You get the capture the day as it flows without worrying about set photos and timelines.
Probably the biggest trend I’m seeing is the use of Direct Flash, especially at night. If you have seen my work, you will know I love this. I like to introduce this at the end of the night for some super fun photos where the couple is letting their hair down.
We have to ask….. you have photographed many weddings at Eleven Eight y – what are your thoughts from a photographers perspective on the venue?
I’ve shot over 10 weddings here and I’ve still not covered all of the grounds. I keep seeing new shot opportunities. The lighting here is incredible, and we get such a range of photos due to the different spaces – moving through from the train into the garden into the courtyard. And, of course, don’t get me started on the tree with the swing which lights up – my favourite night time shot.
The hardest part of putting this blog together was choosing some favourite shots to go with it – there were just too many but here we go – some of our absolute favourite KLD moments:
