Author Archives: Anirudh Iyer

Where Romance Meets Art – Rajkumar Jeevaraj

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Rajkumar Jeevaraj is a photographer who loves to create profound memories for couples through his tailored signature portraits. Rooted in authenticity and spontaneity, his approach is well-acclaimed.

Asian Photography spoke to him about beginnings, emotions, signature shots, experiments and more. Excerpts: 

How did you begin shooting weddings, especially creative portraits surrounding the wedding day?

It all began when I photographed my friend’s big day on my phone and showcased the pictures to his family. Watching them get emotional was a turning point for me where I felt deeply connected to how they were feeling. It struck me that these images would stay with them for life, and I wanted to keep creating that kind of emotion.

That’s also why I began exploring creative portraits—because I wanted every couple’s story to feel exclusive to them. No templates and recycled frames. Just something that is unmistakably theirs. So I started experimenting: reflections, different lighting, silhouettes, perspectives that surprise. Every couple gets signature portraits that are crafted just for them. It’s my way of making sure their story isn’t just remembered, but felt.

You seem to place a lot of emphasis on natural light and emotion. How do you plan and capture these moments?

I plan by understanding natural light’s character at different times of day. In Indian weddings, the schedule is more of a gentle suggestion than a rule, so I adapt to whatever the day throws at me. I let the light guide the frame, shaping each shot based on its mood, intensity, and direction in the moment.

I don’t force emotion, I notice them. I stay alert for the quiet glances, the in-between gestures, the tiny cracks where something real happens and escapes. My job is to anticipate those moments and be there before they disappear. I don’t over-direct because the best emotion doesn’t follow instructions. It just happens and natural light, when it hits right, makes it feel even more honest.

How do you create an environment that encourages that level of relaxed spontaneity?

Creating comfort starts long before the camera comes out. I make it a point to connect with the couple well before the wedding through phone calls, casual meetings, or just hanging out during a pre-wedding shoot. I want them to feel like they’re being photographed by a friend, not a lurking stranger.

On the shoot day, I keep the energy light. I talk, joke-around, show them a few shots on the camera and break the ice. I also watch their body language closely. Some couples need space; others thrive on direction. So I read the room and adjust.

Once they realise there’s no pressure to pose perfectly, they start being themselves. That’s when the spontaneity kicks in, a laugh, a glance, a quick dance step and I’m just there, ready to catch it without interrupting their flow.

How do you come up with experimental techniques like Diptych? Could you talk to us about your inspirations?

Inspiration for Diptychs came from cinema. I’ve always been drawn to visual match cuts, where they leap across time or space through a shared gesture or emotion. Like in Forrest Gump, when adult Forrest closes his eyes at a bus stop, and the next frame cuts to young Forrest in a hospital bed. Same gesture, different era. No explanation needed, the cut says it all.

That’s exactly what I aim for with diptychs. Two seemingly unrelated images suddenly feel connected—a couple posing under a waterfall or a bride in a field of flowers—both dissolving into soft textures in black and white. I don’t look for visual symmetry, I look for emotional continuity and Diptychs let me create meaning that lives in-between frames; not in what’s happening, but in what it feels like.

How much do you plan in advance, and how much do you leave fully spontaneous on the wedding day?

I plan enough to stay calm, and leave enough room to be surprised. Before a wedding, I scout locations, study the light, understand the flow of rituals, and talk to the couple about what matters most to them. That helps me anticipate key emotional beats, the quiet moment before the bride walks in, or a father’s glance during the rituals.

But once the wedding starts, I let go of control. Indian weddings are wonderfully unpredictable—timelines shift, rituals overlap, and magic shows up where you least expect it. Some of my favourite images happened when I abandoned the shot list and just followed the energy. I move with the crowd, chase the light, and listen more than I direct. It’s not about perfection, it’s about staying present. Planning gives me structure, but spontaneity gives me soul.

Your images include black & white and colour mixes. How do you decide which style suits which shot?

It’s usually the photo that decides not me. Some frames just speak louder in black and white. When colour starts to overpower the emotion, I strip it away. If the story is about expression, stillness, or raw human connection, black and white brings clarity and depth. I let colour stay when it is the heartbeat of the frame like a red sari against a pale sky or the chaos of turmeric flying through the air.

There’s no fixed formula. I go with what the frame demands. Sometimes I shoot something thinking it’s perfect in colour, but later realise it carries more weight in monochrome. Other times, it’s the reverse. I trust my instinct more than any rulebook. At the end of the day, it’s not just about how the image looks. It’s about how it feels and which version tells that moment’s truth with the most honesty and soul.

Looking back at your journey so far, what key lesson has shaped you the most as a wedding photographer? And how do you see that influencing your next chapter?

For years, I believed control made a good wedding photographer—turns out, it just made me miss more. When I started out a decade ago, I clung to shotlists like a tourist with a map—terrified of missing a landmark. I’d write down every frame I had to get, obsessed over ticking them off, and felt gutted if one didn’t happen. But with time, and a lot of missed moments, I realised that the tighter I held the camera, the less I actually saw.

Now I shoot with a lot more freedom. I’ve leaned into a photojournalistic approach, where I observe more, intervene less, and let things unfold. Like this moment from a Haldi ceremony , what began as a choreographed splash turned wonderfully unpredictable when a kid threw the entire pot instead of just the water. That flying vessel? Completely unplanned. The next chapter is about being in sync with the chaos, not correcting it.

Side Hustle to World’s Best – Tom Tomeij

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Tom Tomeij is a Dutch wedding photographer who went from managing a hospital and photography on the side, to creating priceless memories for couples full time. Started with family and built over a decade, his work captures the precious moments of matrimony masterfully, alongside couple portraits that are a work of art in themselves.

Asian Photography spoke to him about challenges, team-building, future work, work day spontaneity and more. Excerpts: 

How did you first start photographing weddings, especially the creative portraits?

My very first wedding shoot was in 2015, and it felt like a total disaster. It was an October wedding in The Hague at 4:30 PM, and by that time it was already dark outside. The only light came from chandeliers. Back then, high ISO meant heavy noise, so I had no choice but to use flash. The ceiling was ten metres high, so bouncing was impossible, and there were oil paintings everywhere, so I wasn’t allowed to flash off the walls either. In the end, I used a small continuous light on the couple and the officiant, which helped a bit, but honestly, it was pure stress. 

My father and two sisters were already doing wedding videography for two years, so we decided to join forces and offer both photo and film, captured by one family. That became a strong USP and made me go from shooting 18 weddings in the first year to shooting over 100 per year only three years down the line. 

When it came to portraits, I’ve always loved playing with concepts and abstract forms. I like reading shapes and balancing them with complementary light and colour. For me, a strong photo comes down to light, composition, and moment. I also believe our eyes are naturally drawn to the brightest part of an image, so if your subject is placed there, you’ve got a technically solid base. The next step is storytelling.

I always work with a mental checklist of 10 to 15 elements. The more knowledge you have, the faster you can see solutions. Conditions are rarely ideal, but if you know how to handle them, that’s when the most unique images are born. 

Can you share a memorable challenge you’ve faced on a wedding day and how you handled it?

I could probably write a book about that! I often go pretty far to get the image I have in mind, sometimes a little too far. I’ve stood knee-deep in puddles, completely soaked, or laid flat on the ground only to realise my light grey pants were ruined!

I’ve also torn my pants multiple times during weddings. You squat, kneel, move fast, it happens. Once, during a first look, I ripped them open completely from front to back. Back then, I didn’t know the golden rule yet: Always carry a spare outfit.

So, with my face turning red, I asked the wedding planner if she happened to have a needle and thread. She didn’t, but there was a stapler. So I stapled my pants back together and later borrowed a pair from her husband. It was hilarious in hindsight, though definitely not at the time.

Let’s just say I’ve had a few even crazier moments, but those are stories I probably shouldn’t share here, haha!

How do you plan to shoot spontaneous and fun moments on a wedding day?

You can’t really plan spontaneous moments, but you can definitely create the conditions for them. You’ve to be alert and know where to look. Anticipation is everything, I always shoot through moments rather than at them, meaning I keep shooting as things unfold. You learn to recognise when those moments are likely to happen: walking away from the altar, during the first look, on the dance floor, or during party games. Those are the times to stay focused, move with the action, and make sure your settings and perspective fit the energy of the scene.

Even with group photos, you can bring in spontaneity. I like to direct with small concepts. When time is short or couples want something fun instead of stiff group portraits, I seat the couple on a bench or chairs and have the guests form small groups to photo-bomb them within five seconds. The first round is just for fun, the second is for the crazy shot, and the third is what I call the ‘Emmy Award’ moment. That’s when the magic happens, people cartwheel by, pretend to give birth, or use props for extra energy.

Of course, this doesn’t work with every crowd. As a photographer, you need to read the room and know when to push and when to let people be. But when the energy is right, those moments become some of the most memorable photos of the day.

How did you assemble a team of photographers who can shoot with a consistent style and tone and don’t get in each other’s ways?

Our team consists of five photographers, five videographers, and one person dedicated to marketing—my fiancee. When building the team, I always look at people’s personalities and strengths. I talk to our couples to understand what kind of energy they prefer, do they want someone who takes charge and directs, or someone who blends quietly into the background. Based on that, I match team members accordingly.

You can’t have two strong directors working side by side all day, you need balance. One might lead, while the other works more discreetly. A good photographer knows when to take control and when to go into what I call chameleon or ninja mode. 

For not getting in each other’s way, communication and positioning are key. On a wedding day, we often work with two photographers and two videographers. During the vows, for example, one videographer always focuses on the person speaking because they need that clean audio and lip-sync. I then focus on the person listening, capturing their emotional response. The other two team members might shoot wider from behind, creating depth and context.

We often use a half-moon or criss-cross formation so that we’re never in each other’s frame. Sometimes one person handles ground-level coverage while another shoots from above, giving us two distinct perspectives without interference. We discuss in advance what we want to achieve and how we’ll approach it. Everyone has their lane, but also enough creative freedom to make the day their own.

In terms of consistency, the overall tone and mood are always unified during post-production. I personally handle the editing, which ensures that the final look and feel remain cohesive across all weddings. As long as clear guidelines and references are established, it’s possible to maintain the same visual identity even when multiple editors are involved.

What’s one personal or creative goal you’re working toward this year?

I always set two types of goals for myself, one personal and one organisational. I like to formulate them using the SMART method so they’re measurable and realistic. For the business side, we track things like KPIs, the number of leads, website visitors, conversion rates, the number of weddings and events we’ve covered in a year, our marketing spend, and long-term growth plans.

But to keep it simple, I’ll focus on my personal goal. This is my tenth year as a wedding photographer, and I’ve now captured over five hundred weddings. I still love this craft as much as the day I started, it has grown from a passion into a career that feels deeply personal.

Last year, I was named the ‘Best Wedding Photographer of the Benelux’. Right now, I’m in the running for the highest global recognition in the industry, the ‘Fearless Photographers Top of the World’. If I win, I’ll be able to call myself the best wedding photographer in the world—a dream come true. 

Another goal for the coming years is to teach workshops in some of the world’s most breathtaking locations, places that are visually powerful and rich in photographic potential. I’ve already hosted multiple after-wedding shoots in Iceland, but I want to expand this concept globally.

This summer, I’ll be in the Dolomites, and in January, I’ll return to Venice for our Valentine’s campaign. Last year, we did one in Paris. Future destinations include Cappadocia in Turkey, with its surreal sunrise views of 150 hot-air balloons over the valleys of Göreme and Uçhisar Castle. The salt flats, the canyons, the lantern-filled carpet shops, it’s a visual paradise. I also dream of creating after-wedding shoots in Kyoto, Santorini, and the desert. My goal is to offer truly epic, next-level experiences for couples in the most photogenic places on earth.

What’s the most beautiful lesson weddings have taught you about love or human connection?

When I first started in this industry, I honestly saw weddings as a bit of a commercial affair. Sometimes it even felt like a performance. But as I photographed more and more, especially during the pandemic, my perspective changed completely. Even when celebrations were small, love still found a way.

I saw how love outlasted chaos, and that moved me deeply. Over the years, I’ve come to truly believe in its strength. Love always wins, and it deserves to be celebrated. Today, I think weddings are the most beautiful kind of event there is.

But I don’t believe the celebration should be limited to just one day. The journey toward it should be enjoyed just as much. And the memories that come out of it are worth cherishing for a lifetime.

What I find especially beautiful, when I look at all the cultures I’ve photographed, is that no matter where people come from, love brings everyone together. People travel across the world to be there for one another. That’s what love is about. It doesn’t matter where you are or what’s happening, in good times and in bad, love always prevails, and people will always want to celebrate it.

A wedding happens when you’re in the prime of your life. Everyone is at their best, and you’re there, fully present, to share that connection with the person you choose for life.

Whether or not you believe in marriage, I think life is always richer when you have a partner by your side. It’s more joyful, and when one of you struggles, the other reaches out a hand. You share the happiness, you share the burden, and that’s what makes love and life so powerful.

Rain, Wind, and Chaos: Finding Beauty in Wedding Day Imperfections

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Every couple dreams of the perfect wedding day. Clear skies, calm breezes, smooth timelines, and effortless photos. Yet, anyone who has spent time in the world of weddings knows that reality often writes its own script. The wind picks up, rain drizzles down, the schedule runs late, and sometimes, chaos takes centre stage. But here’s the secret: those imperfect moments often produce the most beautiful, authentic memories.

Great photography, and great storytelling in general, thrive on truth. When the day unfolds in unexpected ways, something real emerges. The laughter that follows a gust of wind, the kiss shared under a shared umbrella, the barefoot dance on wet grass—these are the memories couples treasure most.

The Myth of the Perfect Wedding

Social media and magazines have shaped how couples imagine their day. Every detail appears flawless, every photo glows with golden light, and every timeline runs like clockwork. The truth is far messier. No wedding is perfect, and that is what makes each one special.

When weather or timing slips out of control, it’s easy to feel disappointed. But the so-called “perfect” weddings in glossy spreads often lack the soul of real ones. Perfection looks good on paper, but emotion lives in the unscripted. The rain that forces everyone to huddle together, the veil that catches the wind, the unplanned dance in a puddle—these are moments that can’t be staged.

Rain: The Uninvited Guest That Brings Magic

Rain has a bad reputation at weddings. Couples worry about hair, makeup, and soggy dresses, and photographers scramble to protect their gear. But ask any experienced wedding photographer, and they’ll tell you rain brings atmosphere and depth that sunny skies rarely match.

Raindrops create reflections, soften light, and make colours pop. A couple standing under a clear umbrella in gentle rain can look cinematic, intimate, and unforgettable. Wet surfaces mirror light beautifully, creating natural highlights that elevate an image. Even heavier downpours can add drama. When a couple embraces or laughs through the storm, that resilience becomes part of their story.

The key is to be prepared. A few simple items—clear umbrellas, waterproof covers, and an adventurous mindset—can turn a gloomy forecast into a creative opportunity. Photographers who lean into the weather rather than fight it often capture their best work.

Wind: The Invisible Artist

Wind can be frustrating, especially during portraits. Hair flies everywhere, veils take off, and dresses refuse to stay still. But wind also adds energy and movement that bring images to life. A gust that lifts a veil can look like choreography. A breeze that ripples a gown adds texture and emotion to a still frame.

The trick is to embrace it. Instead of fighting for control, let the elements guide the moment. A windblown kiss or a laugh as the veil wraps around both faces feels alive and genuine. Those candid reactions remind viewers that this was a real day with real emotions, not a styled photo shoot.

Wind also works wonders for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. It adds sound, motion, and unpredictability. The way decorations sway or guests lean in closer makes the experience more memorable. In storytelling, movement often equals emotion, and wind brings both.

Chaos: Where Stories Are Born

Every wedding has a little chaos. The best photographers and planners know that perfection is less about control and more about adaptability.

Some of the most iconic wedding photos happen in unplanned moments. A flower girl sprawled on the floor during the ceremony, a groomsman chasing down a hat in the wind, a couple laughing as a sudden downpour hits—all of these become highlights of the day. They show life as it truly unfolds.

When chaos hits, mindset matters most. Couples who go with the flow often end up enjoying themselves more. Their joy becomes contagious, and that energy translates directly into their photos.

Emotion Over Perfection

What people remember most about weddings is not how perfect everything looked, but how the day felt. Years later, couples rarely recall that the flowers arrived late or that the clouds refused to part. They remember the laughter, the warmth, and the moments of connection that happened despite the imperfections.

Photographers who focus on emotion rather than aesthetics capture the essence of the day. A tearful hug under gray skies says more than a perfectly lit pose ever could. These images stand the test of time because they reflect truth.

Embracing imperfection is not just a creative decision; it’s a mindset shift. It reminds everyone involved—couples, families, and photographers—that beauty often hides in what we can’t plan.

The Photographer’s Role in Imperfect Conditions

Professional photographers learn to anticipate the unexpected. They carry backup gear, scout alternate locations, and keep calm when conditions change. But beyond the logistics, they play a deeper role: they set the tone.

When a photographer stays positive and adaptable, the couple follows suit. A calm, confident photographer can turn a downpour into a fun, memorable experience. They can read the mood, pivot quickly, and find light where it seems lost.

For example, shooting indoors near a window during a storm can produce stunning, moody portraits. Using reflections on wet surfaces or shooting through raindrops on glass can turn challenges into art. The goal is not to ignore the imperfection, but to use it creatively.

Finding the Story in the Storm

Every wedding tells a story. Rain, wind, and chaos are not interruptions to that story—they are characters in it. They bring depth, unpredictability, and authenticity. A photographer who recognises this can weave those elements into the narrative instead of cropping them out.

Think of a bride holding her skirt as she runs across damp grass, or guests laughing while sharing jackets to stay warm. Those small, human moments tell a larger story about love, community, and resilience. They show that joy can thrive under any condition.

The Art of Letting Go

Control feels safe, but creativity often starts when control ends. Weddings remind us that life is beautifully unpredictable. When couples and photographers release their grip on the idea of “perfect”, they make space for something better—something real.

Letting go allows the day to breathe. It invites spontaneity and gives everyone permission to be themselves. The unplanned becomes the unforgettable. The photo you didn’t plan for might become the one you frame forever.

When Imperfection Becomes Perfection

Rain will fall. Winds will blow. Timelines will slip. Yet none of it ruins a wedding unless you let it. In fact, these moments often define the day. They prove that love isn’t fragile; it’s resilient.

When couples look back at their wedding albums, they’ll see more than weather or chaos. They’ll see how they handled it together—with laughter, grace, and joy. Those imperfect conditions become symbols of something greater: the start of a marriage built to withstand whatever life brings.

Conclusion

Weddings are not meant to be flawless performances. They are living, breathing stories full of emotion, spontaneity, and imperfection. Rain, wind, and chaos may change the plan, but they rarely diminish the day. More often, they elevate it.

In photography and in life, perfection is overrated. The real beauty lies in the moments we can’t control—the ones that remind us we’re human, in love, and alive. When couples and photographers learn to embrace that truth, every wedding, no matter the weather, becomes unforgettable.

The Adoration Formula – Victor Lax

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Victor Lax is a photojournalist turned wedding photographer with an experience lasting well over a decade. Throughout his portfolio you’ll see one thing in common – he doesn’t stick to the norm. Together with his partner, he has travelled around the world capturing a variety of traditions, creating awe inspiring work, which has landed him several accolades throughout the years.

Asian Photography spoke with him about styles, authenticity, composition techniques, future plans and more. Excerpts: 

You’ve photographed weddings around the world. How does each culture’s celebration of love influence your creative approach?

Each culture celebrates love differently: some with euphoria, others with deep spirituality or pure simplicity. But the common thread is human emotion.

Travelling and photographing weddings worldwide has taught me to observe without judgment and connect beyond rituals. In India, the energy and colour inspire a cinematic eye; in Nordic countries, the silence and light make me more contemplative.

Every culture pushes me to adapt my visual narrative while staying true to my essence—a balance that makes my work both universal and personal.

Your feed shows both joyful, playful moments and deeply intimate ones. Do you aim for a specific emotional tone in every wedding, or let the day define it?

I don’t look for an emotional tone before a wedding begins. I prefer to let the day itself, the people, and their energy set the rhythm of what unfolds. Each wedding has its own atmosphere: some are full of laughter and chaos, others are experienced in a more intimate and contained way. Every couple I photograph is different, so each wedding is completely unique, and I approach it as a personal project where I interpret each moment and transform it into little works of art.

My role is to stay open to all of that, without imposing a narrative. Authenticity appears when you let emotions flow naturally, without trying to direct them. My approach is to observe, listen, and feel what’s happening around me. When you truly connect with people, the images emerge with an emotional coherence that cannot be planned. In the end, the story defines the tone, not me.

How much does the environment dictate your style, lighting choices or composition on the day?

The environment plays a fundamental role in my photography, but I don’t see it as a limitation, rather as a source of inspiration. Every place has its own light, architecture, colours, and atmosphere, and these elements guide many of my creative decisions.

I am always in search of interesting light, whether it’s soft or hard. Contrary to what some might think, hard light has led me to experiment and have fun with it, exploring and playing with deep shadows and the drama of the chiaroscuro it creates. Light is the path.

Rather than imposing a fixed style, I let the environment have a dialogue with me and with the story of the wedding. My goal is for each photograph to breathe with the place and the energy of the people, integrating lighting, composition, and emotion into a coherent and unique narrative.

What’s your idea of a “perfect wedding photo” and how has it evolved since you began photographing weddings?

The perfect wedding photo doesn’t exist! But that’s exactly what keeps me moving forward. My whole career has been about pursuing excellence and trying to find that one image that, within each wedding, captures its true essence. It’s not an easy task.

For a photograph to truly stand out, there has to be an almost magical combination of elements: light that draws you in, a composition that gives structure and meaning, and of course, a moment or emotion that makes you stop and feel something real.

After over 15 years photographing weddings, I still believe in those same foundations. However, over time I’ve learned to embrace simplicity—to distill my images, to let the story breathe. I try to ensure that every element has a purpose. Today, more than ever, I believe that less is more, and that the real power of an image lies in its ability to communicate without excess.

In the end, perfection isn’t found in a single photograph, but in the coherence and honesty that emerge throughout an entire story.

How did you develop your signature style over the years? How do you compose your images to exude visual poetry while using elements such as selective focus/tilt-shift, asymmetry and reflections?

From the very beginning, I’ve tried to give my best and, above all, to be honest with myself. I never wanted to follow a predetermined path of what a wedding photographer is “supposed” to do. Instead, I chose to look inward, to understand who I was as a photographer, and only then bring that identity into wedding photography.

I believe that before photographing anything, we must explore within ourselves, and ask essential questions: What is my light? Soft or hard? What kind of moments move me? What do I look for in a portrait? What meaning do I want to convey? What is the scent of my photographs?

When you find those answers, you stop photographing through imitation and start creating from authenticity. That’s where a personal style emerges, free from artifice or passing trends.

For me, this journey has led to images where composition, light, and emotion coexist in harmony. I like to use tools such as selective focus or tilt-shift, asymmetry, and reflections not as technical resources, but as a way to translate feelings. I want my photos to breathe visual poetry, to convey something beyond what is visible, so that whoever looks at them can feel what I felt when I captured them.

What’s one mistake early in your career that shaped how you shoot today?

When I first started photographing weddings after working as a photojournalist for more than ten years, I made the mistake of thinking that wedding photography was mostly about capturing the exchange of rings, a few family portraits, the cake cutting, or the first dance. You know, all the clichés.

But over time, I realised that weddings were so much more than that. I discovered that the real magic was in everything that happens in between—the glances, the gestures, the silences, and the small, unnoticed stories.

That moment of revelation made me understand that wedding photography had no limits and that it could be as creative, profound, and narrative as you wanted it to be. And that realisation changed everything. From that point on, the way I saw and captured weddings completely shifted.

Looking ahead, what new direction or technique are you excited to explore in your wedding photography?

That answer belongs to the future couples who will give me the opportunity to photograph their wedding. They are, in many ways, the ones who shape my evolution as a photographer. Each couple—with their story, their energy, and their way of experiencing love—challenges me in different ways and inspires me to see things from new perspectives.

I don’t like to predict too much about where my work will go, because I prefer to let experience, emotion, and people guide me. What I do know is that I want to keep exploring, keep being surprised, and keep my curiosity alive.

Wedding photography remains an endless territory. There’s always something new to discover—a different way to use light, to compose, to tell a story. And as long as I still feel that excitement before every wedding, I’ll know I’m on the right path.

Backup Systems & Workflow: Never Lose a Client’s Memories

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Every wedding photographer’s nightmare is losing client photos. One corrupt memory card, one failed hard drive, one accidental delete, and months of trust and effort can vanish in seconds. Wedding photography is not just another creative business, it’s also memory preservation. When clients hire you, they’re not only paying for your artistic eye, but also for your reliability. That’s why building a solid backup system and workflow is not optional. It’s your safety net, your reputation, and sometimes, your career.

Why Backups Matter More Than You Think

No one expects data loss until it happens. Cameras fail, laptops crash, files get overwritten, and cloud sync errors occur. Even professionals who know better sometimes take shortcuts, thinking you will back it up later. But later can come too late.

Losing wedding photos is not like losing landscape shots or product images. You can’t recreate those moments. The couple’s first kiss, the father’s speech, the look on the bride’s face—all gone. That’s why your workflow must include redundancy at every step. The goal is simple: no single point of failure.

Step 1: Start Redundancy in the Camera

Your first layer of protection begins during shooting. Choose a camera that comes with two card slots—they also come with redundant recording features. When shooting RAWs or RAW+jpeg, choose the duplicate option to have a second copy of pictures on the second card. If one card fails, you still have the full set.

Use high-quality memory cards from trusted brands and rotate them frequently. Cards wear out over time, especially under heavy use. Label them, track their age, and retire them regularly. Avoid filling cards completely. Leaving some space helps prevent corruption issues.

Step 2: Immediate Backup After Shooting

The moment you finish shooting, your mission changes from capturing memories to protecting them. Never wait until the next day to transfer your files, do it on-site on a laptop to two separate hard drives, while keeping the data on the cards. 

A simple rule to follow is the 3-2-1 backup strategy:

  • Keep 3 copies of your data
  • Store them on 2 different types of media
  • Have 1 copy stored off-site

For example, after downloading the files to your main working drive, duplicate them to an external hard drive and also upload them to a cloud backup system. This combination gives you protection from drive failure, theft, and disasters like fire or water damage.

Step 3: Structure Your File Management

Good backups are useless if you can’t find what you need. Build a consistent folder structure and naming convention for every client. Include the wedding date—Y-M-D format to search them easily—followed by the couple’s names, and shoot type (for example, 2025-10-15_SamAndJenna_Wedding)—inside, separate RAW files, edited files, and deliverables.

Organised workflows save time during editing and protect against accidental deletion. When you know exactly where every file belongs, you reduce mistakes. Many photographers also use catalogue-based systems like Adobe Lightroom, but remember that catalogs themselves need backup too. A corrupted Lightroom catalogue without a backup can disconnect your edits from your photos. Pro tip, have a backup system like Apple’s Time Machine enabled to store a copy of all your work on a daily basis at a secure location.

Step 4: Use Reliable Hardware

Not all drives are created equal. Consumer-grade external drives can fail under constant use. Invest in professional hardware—NAS units with RAID functionality that provide both speed and redundancy.

A RAID 1 setup mirrors data across two drives. If one fails, the other keeps your files safe. RAID 5 or RAID 6 configurations spread data across multiple drives, offering both speed and security. NAS (Network Attached Storage) systems add convenience, allowing automated backups and remote access. Conversely, you can buy a DAS or Direct Attached Storage setup if setting up storage over a network seems complicated. There are systems on the market that sell you a premade package which require minimal setup, but are also airgapped from the internet, just as a safety feature. 

Regardless, regularly check your drives for health using tools that monitor bad sectors or drive temperature. Replace drives before they fail, not after.

Step 5: The Cloud as Your Safety Net

Cloud storage has become essential for long-term security. Services like Backblaze, Google Drive or Dropbox, can automatically sync your files in the background. The advantage is simple: even if your entire office setup is destroyed, your photos still live online.

However, cloud backups should complement, not replace, physical backups. Upload speeds can be slow for large RAW files, and syncing errors can occur. Make sure to double-check that your backup software verifies uploads and notifies you of any failed transfers.

For faster cloud workflows, you can also back up JPEG previews or compressed versions first, followed by full RAW files later. That way, you always have a version of the images safe in the cloud while the larger files upload overnight.

Step 6: Automate Where You Can

Human error is one of the main reasons for backup failure. Automating your backup process removes that risk. Use software that runs scheduled backups daily or weekly. Most NAS systems and external drives support automation tools that mirror and check files from your main working folders.

Set your system to notify you of failed tasks. Even the most advanced setup is useless if it stops syncing without your knowledge. Automation ensures that your backups stay current without relying on memory or habit.

Step 7: Test and Verify Regularly

A backup is only as good as its recovery. Too many photographers assume their system works until they try to restore files—and discover missing data or corrupted folders. Schedule routine checks. Once a month, retrieve a few random files from your backups to confirm they open correctly.

Also, keep documentation of your workflow. Write down where backups are stored, how often they’re updated, and what software you use. In a high-stress situation, clear instructions can make the difference between recovery and panic.

Step 8: Plan for the Long Term

After delivering photos to clients, don’t immediately clear space by deleting old files. Keep final edited images and RAW files for at least one year, if not longer. Clients sometimes request additional prints, albums, or re-edits later.

Long-term storage can be simplified by moving archived weddings to slower, larger-capacity drives or cold storage options like Amazon Glacier. These are designed for rarely accessed but permanently safe data.

You can also create a separate “client archive” drive with clearly labelled folders for each year. That way, even if your main system evolves, your historical data remains intact and easy to locate.

Step 9: Communicate Your Backup Policy

Your clients may not ask about your backup process, but mentioning it in your consultations can set you apart. It builds confidence when they know their memories are handled with professional care. You can include a short note in your contract explaining your storage and retention policies.

It’s also worth clarifying how long you keep the images and whether you provide long-term cloud access. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and shows your commitment to quality.

Step 10: Learn From Mistakes and Evolve

Every photographer eventually faces a scare—a missing folder, a damaged card, or a near loss. Take those moments as lessons. Improve your system each time you identify a weak point. Technology changes fast, and your workflow should evolve with it.

Regularly review new tools, cloud options, and storage technologies. What worked five years ago may not be the best solution today. Treat your backup workflow as an active part of your business, not a one-time setup.

The Bottom Line

Photography is more than capturing images; it’s about protecting them. A solid backup system shows respect for your clients’ memories and your own professionalism. The truth is, you can replace equipment or reshoot a portrait session, but you can never redo a wedding day.

When your workflow has multiple layers of protection—dual card recording, on-site & offsite backups, and cloud storage—you sleep better at night. You know that no matter what happens, your clients’ stories are safe. In the end, reliability is what clients remember most and sets a professional photographer apart. The photos you take become part of their lives. Your job is to make sure those memories never vanish.

Oscar Worthy Weddings – Sara Sganga

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Sara Sganga is among a few photographers who manage to capture the poetry of love in a cinematic but also deeply intimate and human way. An internationally acclaimed and award-winning wedding photographer based in Italy, her work is a masterclass in emotion, light, and storytelling, transcending traditional wedding documentation. With a background steeped in fine art and an eye for authentic moments, she has photographed celebrations across continents, bringing an unmistakable blend of Italian elegance and emotional honesty to every frame.

Asian Photography spoke to her about blending cinematic & journalistic styles, the future and more. Excerpts:

What’s your strategy for capturing the emotions of the day while still keeping things visually polished and editorial-worthy?

Emotion is the heart of every wedding. My style blends documentary and editorial photography. I observe attentively and gently guide my subjects, creating a serene atmosphere where every gesture, glance, and smile can unfold naturally. In this delicate balance between spontaneity and direction, images are born that are both authentic and refined, infused with emotion and meaning.

My focus lies in the interplay of light, composition, and atmosphere and I love to transform genuine moments into photographs that speak an editorial and cinematic language. My goal is that each frame can tell the story of the day with elegance and harmony, celebrating details, emotions, and human connection.

The result is a visual narrative that honours love in all its nuances, where spontaneity and sophistication coexist effortlessly. Every image reflects the couple’s personality, style, and bonds, and obviously  captures precious moments, turning them into unforgettable memories.

In your work we see a vibrant use of natural light and colour. How much of your style is determined in-camera, and how much comes from post-production?

Light is the heartbeat of my work. I strive to capture each moment, glance, and gesture directly in-camera, following how the light embraces people, caresses architecture, and transforms its surroundings. Growing up in Italy, I studied the great Renaissance and Baroque masters—particularly Caravaggio—whose extraordinary use of chiaroscuro taught me to shape light and shadow to evoke depth, emotion, and poetry. That lesson continues to guide every frame I take, transforming reality into something almost painterly.  I also embrace artificial light, often using flash creatively—as a subtle fill, a striking backlight, or a way to enhance contrast and make colours come alive with greater intensity and drama.

Post-production plays only a subtle role—enhancing tones, colours, and atmosphere without ever betraying the authenticity of the moment. My style is “true to tone” and emerges from this living dialogue between natural light and editorial refinement, and a true to tone image never gets old and goes beyond trends. It’s timeless.

Looking at your portfolio we can sense a consistency in mood. How has your signature style evolved since you began shooting weddings, and what drives that evolution today?

My photography has always been rooted in emotion—in the desire to tell stories of genuine connection and authenticity. My style at the beginning was totally documentary and my approach was to be in silence and let the moments happen. Over time, that emotional foundation has evolved through a deep pursuit of aesthetic balance and visual harmony. Now my photography blends documentary-style (because I love real, candid moments) and the research of the Great Beauty. Even in reportage, nothing is left to chance: every tone, line, and composition arises from a passionate study of light, form, and colour.

I believe the strength of an image lies in the harmony between emotion and intention. Each photograph is a dialogue with my subjects, between sensitivity and structure, spontaneity and precision. Even the presentation of my work—from my portfolio to my social presence—reflects this vision. Everything is thoughtfully designed to convey a sense of identity and coherence. The same moment can be photographed by many, but what makes it personal is our own vision.

Do you have an image you’ve shot that you feel is your magnum opus?

I’m highly self-critical and truly believe that my most beautiful photograph has yet to be taken. That awareness keeps me searching for a more honest light, a truer gesture, a deeper emotion. Every wedding is an opportunity to grow, to refine my sensitivity, and to get closer to that ideal image I carry within me.

Some photographs capture the perfect union of light, timing, and emotion, but I never see them as definitive. I believe the beauty of photography lies in its constant evolution—in the desire to go beyond, to tell the essence of someone even more truthfully. This endless pursuit keeps my inspiration alive and turns every image into a step toward my next, possible, most beautiful photograph.

How do you see your work evolving over the next few years? Any new styles/ techniques/creative directions you’re excited to explore?

I started in this world at 16 years old, and now I am 33. Photography, like people and every art form, is in constant evolution. It is a living language that changes with us, with our experiences, and with the sensitivity we develop over time. I deeply believe in the need to challenge one’s limits, to question oneself, and to continually seek new perspectives from which to observe beauty.

In the years ahead, I want to keep studying, experimenting, and letting myself be inspired by people, light, movement, and genuine emotion. I’m especially drawn to deepening the dialogue between fashion photography and the art of weddings, to create imagery that feels ever more narrative, refined, and contemporary.

My evolution will continue to be guided by curiosity, discipline, and passion—the forces that drive me not to chase perfection, but to seek essence: that quality which makes every image alive, resonant, and capable of standing the test of time.

November 2025

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Asian Photography Magazine November 2025 Edition is out 💍

Cover 📸: By Rajkumar Jeeveraj

In this issue, explore:

Pro Profile

On The Horizon

Tips And Techs

  • Backup Systems & Workflow: Never Lose a Client’s Memories
  • ⁠Rain, Wind, and Chaos: Finding Beauty in Wedding Day Imperfections

The Wedding Business?

In today’s digital-first wedding ecosystem, aggregator platforms have positioned themselves as
the go-to bridge between couples and vendors. From photographers and makeup artists to
décor planners and caterers – everything is now a click away. And while these – on paper seem
perfect match-making experiences, not just for couples, but for professionals too. More seems
to be brewing under the hood.

Increasingly, wedding photographers and vendors are voicing concerns over misleading
promises and opaque practices. Many report inconsistencies in lead generation — citing that
the “guaranteed” leads they pay for rarely translate into viable clients. For small or mid-tier
professionals who depend on these listings for visibility, it’s a costly gamble. This imbalance
doesn’t just affect the vendors — it trickles down to couples as well. When rankings are skewed
by money rather than merit, genuine talent risks being buried under algorithms. The result? A
creative industry that thrives on authenticity and relationships is slowly being reduced to
metrics and monetization.

At Asian Photography, we chose to spotlight this growing concern in our special feature — not
to indict, but to ignite a conversation that’s long overdue. Because the wedding industry, like
the very bond it celebrates. And we hope that this starts a conversation in the right direction.

A Unique Cover


And similar to that – for our cover this month, we chose an image that breaks away from the
expected. Instead of the familiar laughter-filled wedding frame, we feature a silhouette bride in
possibly a moment of pause and reflection — symbolic of the many professionals who often
remain behind the scenes, capturing stories that aren’t their own, while quietly facing an
industry that’s changing faster than ever.

In an age of aggregation and algorithms, this cover – and this story remind us that weddings, at
their heart, remain deeply personal. And perhaps it’s time that we as an industry remember
that too.

Canon Launches R6 Mark III & RF 45mm F1.2 Lens

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Canon has announced the latest addition to its EOS R mirrorless lineup – the EOS R6 Mark III and RF45mm F1.2 STM lens — aimed at professional photographers & filmmakers seeking high performance and versatility.

Succeeding the R6 Mark II launched two years ago, the Mark III features a new 32.5-megapixel full-frame sensor that offers improved autofocus, and enhanced shooting speeds of up to 40 fps (electronic) and 12 fps (mechanical). The camera also introduces a pre-continuous shooting mode, capturing up to 20 frames before the shutter is fully pressed, along with advanced subject tracking via the Register People Priority function inherited from the flagship EOS R1.

On the video front, the R6 Mark III supports 7K 60p internal RAW recording, 3:2 Open Gate video, Canon Log 2/3, and HDR PQ, catering to professional workflows. It also offers proxy recording, waveform and false colour displays, and 14 in-camera colour filters for quick creative output.

Accompanying the camera is the new RF45mm F1.2 STM, Canon’s most affordable f/1.2 lens to date. Compact and lightweight at just 346g, it provides stunning bokeh and sharpness, serving as a versatile option for both full-frame and APS-C shooters (72mm equivalent).

The EOS R6 Mark III body is priced at ₹2,43,995, while kits range up to ₹3,43,995. The RF45mm F1.2 STM lens is priced at ₹40,495 (all prices inclusive of taxes).

Nikon’s Firmware 3.0 Brings New features to Z f

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Nikon India Pvt. Ltd. has announced the release of firmware version 3.00 for Nikon Z f full-frame mirrorless camera, featuring several enhancements to improve creativity, focus precision, and usability.

The update introduces a Film Grain feature that simulates the nostalgic texture of traditional film photography. Users can fine-tune grain size and intensity, achieving a unique look for every shot—perfect for both stills and video creators seeking a classic aesthetic.

In addition, firmware 3.00 enhances focusing and framing options and adds new functions for smoother shooting and editing experiences.

Key Updates in Firmware Ver. 3.00:

  • Film Grain feature: Adjustable grain size (3 levels) and intensity (6 levels) for distinctive, film-like effects.
  • Focus Peaking enhancement: New [Only during zoom] option for precise manual focus without cluttering the view.
  • New grid options: [4:3] for stills and [9:16] for video, ideal for social media composition.
  • Improved HDMI output: Seamless live streaming to external monitors and LED displays.
  • Enhanced usability options: Auto monitor display switch, customizable shutter sound, portrait video orientation support, and simplified Imaging Recipes registration.

Nikon continues to expand camera functionality through regular firmware updates to meet evolving creator needs.

Nikon India Releases NIKKOR Z 16-50mm f/2.8 and 35mm f/1.7 APS-C Lenses

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Nikon India has announced two new additions to its APS-C/DX-format mirrorless lineup – the NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7 and the NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR. Both are set to launch in the first week of November 2025.

The NIKKOR Z DX MC 35mm f/1.7, priced at ₹38,995, is Nikon’s first DX-format micro lens capable of achieving a life-size reproduction ratio (equivalent to 1:1 in FX/35mm format). With a bright f/1.7 aperture and a minimum focus distance of 0.16 m, it enables sharp, detailed close-ups with soft, natural bokeh. Its aspherical ED glass element minimises chromatic aberration, while the stepping motor (STM) ensures quiet autofocus — ideal for both photography and video. Weighing just a few hundred grams, the lens is lightweight, portable, and built with dust- and drip-resistance in mind.

Alongside it, Nikon introduces the NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/2.8 VR, priced at ₹78,995, a compact zoom covering 24–75mm (FX equivalent) with a constant f/2.8 aperture. It offers 5-stop vibration reduction (VR), excellent low-light performance, and versatile close-focusing distances of 0.15 m (wide) and 0.25 m (telephoto). The lens features ED and aspherical elements for high-resolution clarity, STM autofocus, and focus breathing suppression for smooth video capture.