Finding the right photographer that goes above and beyond to capture your day perfectly is so important. You’ll also want to hire a company that is the right personality fit for your day. Andrew of Vick Photography describes his photography style as “relational” and is passionate about photographing exciting and candid moments. You’ll meet him at UNVEILED on Sunday, January 8th, but before you do, check out our interview with the owner himself and discover what his favorite trends are in weddings right now.
Q: Let’s get to it, what’s your business’ specialty?
A: Vick Photography is a word-of-mouth-based business that specializes in wedding photography with an emphasis on building relationships. We want to know about you, your love story, and feel like we’re part of the family on your wedding day. We want to provide you with the ultimate wedding experience from start to finish.
Q: Where can we find Vick Photography?
A: We’re an Edina-based business with a studio location conveniently next to Bunny’s in St. Louis Park, MN
Q: Tell us when and how Vick Photography began.
A: It’s unique these days to actually study photography because most people just pick it up along the way. I went to school in San Diego, California, for business and photography, and one of my good friends dared me to bring my camera to their wedding as a guest. When they ended up using more of my photos than the professional that they hired, I knew I had found something worth pursuing. It sparked something in me that has never left; the idea of capturing an entire love story in a single moment of time was perhaps the greatest gift I could give someone, so I never stopped. Many years and hundreds of weddings later, I still feel that same spark every time.
Q: How long have you been in the industry? What do you think has changed the most since then?
A: I’ve been professionally photographing weddings for more than 20 years. The thing that has changed the most is technology and everything that comes along with that. When I started, it was all film in the darkroom, but now everyone has a pretty decent camera on their phone in their pocket at all times. Professional equipment has also come a long way from pristine glass in my lenses, to the editing software we use for post production. Changing technology pushes us to create new and more exciting art every year which we love. You also need to be social media savvy and know that couples are exposed to so much more than any generation before. There are a million different ideas and inspiration boards out there, so helping couples navigate what’s really important to them has become a new talent.
Q: What makes Vick Photography unique from others?
A: We have a team of wonderful and caring individuals that have been working in the industry for years and are excited to help in every part of your wedding journey. I have also been doing this for a long time and have great long-lasting relationships with many venues and vendors in the area. It’s such a bonus to know that these people are my friends and they’re a quick phone call away. I also love to travel! Many people don’t enjoy destination weddings, but it’s one of my favorite things. I’m excited to meet you anywhere in the world!
Q: Walk us through your average workday.
A: No day is ever the same so it’s always exciting and keeps me on my toes! I meet with new clients to talk about their love stories and spend time getting to know one another. Then I’ll meet up with newly married clients (who have become friends) for happy hour and to design their dream album. Then I’ll take off for a few engagement or family sessions to catch the best light of the day. I usually end my day with some quality family time by getting my boys off the school bus, making them dinner (that they usually complain about), and then tucking them into bed.
Q: What would you want couples searching for wedding photography to know?
A: Not prioritizing photography higher and finding the right personality fit. No one has ever said they regret putting photography at the top of their list because it’s one of the only things that gains value overtime. Most people also overlook the relationship aspect when finding a photographer. We want people to remember that this person will be there to capture your most intimate and special moments, they will know all your family dynamics, and they will be the first person you see when you walk down the aisle after saying “I do.” We want that to be a warm, welcoming face that you have an honest connection with. There’s a reason I become friends with so many clients after the wedding!
Q: How far in advance should a couple book with you?
A: For prime weekend dates in the summer and fall, we’re usually booking 12-18 months in advance. That said, we’ve been known to photograph a small weekday wedding with only a few days’ notice, so anything is possible if your date is flexible.
Q: What’s one wedding trend you wouldn’t be sad to see fade out?
A: Most trends are rooted in something the couple loves or wants to embrace, so in that regard, no trend is bad as long as it represents who you are!
Q: Describe your photography style.
A: In a word? Relational. I love capturing emotional and powerful moments that are both big and small. From the first kiss during the ceremony to a quiet moment alone with the couple just taking a breath to close their eyes and take it all in. My background is in landscape photography and I love merging love stories together with sweeping landscapes.
Q: What’s trending in wedding photography right now?
A: We’re seeing a lot of “moments” being added to the wedding day such as a dress reveal, first look with a parent, post-ceremony toast with the wedding party, and gift/letter exchanges. These are great ways to make sure you set aside time to take in every moment that is special to you. We really encourage building these moments into your timeline because if you don’t, more often than not the big reveal that you envisioned can fall flat. I always tell couples to make an event out of the smallest moments, because if they’re important to you then let’s make them a feature of your day! We’ve also seen a lot of custom suit embroidery and custom liners which always adds a fun touch.
Q: Do you ever travel to shoot weddings? If so, what has been your favorite destination so far?
A: Absolutely! Travel is one of my favorite things in life. Professionally, my favorite destination has been Lake Como, Italy. I traveled there with a small group of amazing people where we searched for George Clooney, rented a private boat to tour the lake, ate some of the most amazing food ever, and took in scenery that I will never forget. Personally, I love Antigua and Guatemala. The colors, architecture, vibrant food, and incredible people make up one of the most welcoming and spectacular places I’ve ever visited.
LIGHTNING ROUND!
Q: What show are you binging right now?
A: Bachelor in Paradise and Married at First Sight
Q: You’re in charge of the lineup for your dream concert. Who are your headliners?
A: Tom Petty, Mumford and Sons, Michael Jackson, and Lady Gaga at The Gorge
Q: Gold or Silver?
A: Silver
Q: Black Tie or Casual?
A: Black Tie
Q: You’re at brunch. Are you going for something sweet or savory?
A: Savory – Definitely, ham and gruyere crepe
Q: Favorite board game?
A: Balderdash
Q: Do you have any favorite podcasts?
A: Anything Brené Brown
Q: Mountains or Beach?
A: Mountains, but in college, I would surf in the morning and be skiing by the afternoon
Q: If you could choose any celebrity or public figure to sit next to on a plane, who would it be?
A: Ben Leber
Whether you’re getting married near or far, Vick Photography is sure to capture your day beautifully. Get to know more about their photography studio and how to get in touch with a member of their team here!
All images by Vick Photography
