Spotlight: An Interview With A Professional Wedding Photographer

Weddings are a once-in-a-lifetime event, filled with emotions, special moments, and intricate details that deserve to be captured beautifully. To give you a peek behind the lens, we sat down with Tana Ostman Photography, a seasoned professional wedding photographer with 7 years of experience in documenting love stories. In this interview, she shares insights into the art of wedding photography, tips for couples, and the magic that happens on the big day.

Q: How did you get started in wedding photography?

Tana: I’ve always loved photography, but there’s something special about weddings that drew me in. Capturing real moments of love, joy, and connection felt so fulfilling. It started with shooting friends’ weddings as a hobby, and I quickly realized this was what I wanted to do full-time. The opportunity to be a part of such an important day is incredible.

Q: What’s your favorite part of photographing a wedding?

Tana: Oh, that’s a tough one! There are so many great moments, but I’d say it’s the emotional exchanges between the couple and their families. Whether it's the first look, the vows, or the quiet moments in between, those raw emotions are what make wedding photography so unique. You can’t stage or recreate those feelings.

Q: What’s the biggest challenge you face as a wedding photographer?

Tana: The unpredictability of weddings can be challenging. You have to be prepared for anything—changing weather, shifting timelines, or unexpected technical issues. But that’s part of the job! It’s about staying calm under pressure and making sure the couple feels relaxed, no matter what happens.

Q: Can you share some tips for couples when choosing a wedding photographer?

Tana: Absolutely! I always tell couples to find a photographer whose style resonates with them. Look through portfolios and see if you can imagine yourselves in those images. Communication is key too—make sure you connect with your photographer on a personal level because they’ll be with you through some of the most intimate moments of your day.

Q: How do you help couples feel comfortable in front of the camera?

Tana: I try to create a relaxed and fun environment. A lot of people feel awkward in front of the camera, so I give gentle direction to keep things natural. Sometimes I’ll ask them to share a private joke or hold each other a little closer, so the focus is on their relationship and not the camera. By the end of the session, most couples forget I’m even there!

Q: How do you stay inspired as a wedding photographer?

Tana: Inspiration comes from each couple’s unique story. Every wedding is different, and every couple brings their own energy and personality. I love that no two days are ever the same. It keeps things exciting, and I’m always learning new ways to capture those moments that will be cherished forever.

Q: What trends are you seeing in wedding photography right now?

Tana: Lately, I’ve noticed couples gravitating toward more candid, documentary-style photography. They want natural moments rather than posed ones. I’ve also seen an uptick in the luxury style and flat-lay’s of the details. Top down photographs of the accessories, shoes, jewelry, cufflinks, perfumes, veils, invitations & save the dates. There’s also a shift toward more intimate weddings, especially after 2020, and that means a greater focus on capturing smaller, meaningful details.

Q: Lastly, what advice do you have for aspiring wedding photographers?

Tana: Be patient and always be prepared. Wedding photography is fast-paced, and you only get one chance to capture those moments. Invest in good equipment, but also invest in relationships with clients. A great wedding photographer is someone who can make the couple feel at ease and deliver photos that exceed their expectations. Practice, study the light, and never stop learning!

Wedding photography is a beautiful blend of artistry and emotion. Through the lens of a professional, each moment is transformed into a timeless keepsake. If you’re in the process of planning your wedding, take the time to find a photographer who will tell your unique love story.

For more tips and inspiration, check out our gallery of wedding photography or contact us today to schedule your consultation!