It’s another #MangoMonday, and I’m excited to introduce you to our documentary wedding photographer, Wilson! Wilson is a jack of all trades, and easily the nicest guy we know. He loves sports, music, and binge-watching latest Netflix shows. But most of all, he loves photography and the way it opens up the world to him. Aside from taking kick-ass photojournalistic wedding photos, one of his superpowers is his ability to become your best friend the moment you meet him. His genuine and outgoing personality puts everyone at ease, especially during the wedding day. By the end of the wedding, Wilson always feels like a part of the family – a unique skill that allows him to capture some of the best documentary style photos around.
I sat down with Wilson, and chatted all things wedding photography. Get to know him a little closer in our interview below:
What or who got you started in photography?
Photography started off as a side hobby of mine. I was (and still am) big into travelling and I would fall in love with all the beautiful travel photos I would see online. These photos would honestly inspire me to get out and see the world but also made me want to take my own version of all the photos I admired.
I quickly realized though that in order to produce such a beautiful image, it wasn’t as simple as pressing a button, rather a whole range of factors to take into consideration from technical camera settings to even physically positioning yourself in order to get what you want from your head to your camera. It was this desire to learn and master this craft which has led me to this art.
What photographer/artist are you most greatly influenced/inspired by in your work and why?
I draw inspiration for my work by taking elements from all the different genres of photography out there so I don’t really have one particular photographer/artist who influences my work. I love street photography for its raw and candid nature, fashion for its creativity, food for its ability to make you want to eat what you see, commercial photography for its attention to detail, and anything else that draws some form of emotion from you by looking at it.
What do you like about being a wedding photographer?
I like how personal it is and how every wedding is different and unique in its own rights. You get to meet the bride and grooms family and friends, experience the joys of the day with them and ultimately create an everlasting bond. Photography wise, since every wedding is different, there’s always something new to capture and no matter how prepared you think you are, you always have to be ready to capture the unexpected.
As a documentary wedding photographer, what part of the wedding day are you most excited about?
The most exciting part of the wedding day for me has to be the first look whether that happens beforehand or during the ceremony. There’s usually so much emotion leading up to seeing your partner: sometimes nervous, sometimes excitement, and the feeling of finally seeing your significant other really brings a level of comfort for the two of them and I can’t help but enjoy seeing and capturing their reactions in an artful, photojournalistic way.
Do you have any pre-wedding day rituals?
I try to find ways to relax and clear my mind which usually includes going to the gym and sometimes watching an episode of Brooklyn Nine Nine (One of the best shows ever!)
Do you create personal work often?
I used to attend and shoot at a lot of music concerts and shows, and I still have the itch to go and shoot if my schedule permits. I find the change in style and environment helps keeps things fresh, and reminds me of certain elements I can take from that style of photography and incorporate it into a wedding day.
What do you recommend for couples who are shy in front of the camera?
I’m camera shy myself actually so I totally get it! My recommendation to couples is to trust your photographer because we will have little tips and tricks that will help you overcome any shyness you may have to ensure you both look amazing in your photos.
What do you love in life, beyond the lens?
Playing and watching sports (specifically basketball, volleyball, football, and baseball), memes, comedy shows, travelling the world, learning about the latest technology and crazy gadgets, watching documentaries on VICE… I can go on and on!
What is something you can’t live without?
Electricity. I remember my area had a 3 day blackout once and your life just becomes a mess. Your food may get spoiled, you don’t know what time it is and you’re forced to follow the schedule of the sun and sleep early. What a disaster.
If you were an emoji, what emoji would you be?
The upside down smiley face. It can mean you’re happy or it can imply sarcasm. It’s my favourite!
What do you love about being a part of MANGO?
I love the positivity and support by everyone and how it feels like a close knit family. The talent level is so high here and it forces you to step up your game and keeps you motivated to get better each and every day. Ultimately though, I love how I enjoy every bit I do and how none of it feels like “work”.
