Vendor Spotlight: Erica Godino, Closer North

How did you get into photography? Are you self-taught or formally trained?

I am self-trained after completing art school in traditional arts.

Describe your style in one sentence.

Natural documentation with a romantic undertone.

What do you love most about photographing weddings?

Weddings are a view into someone’s culture and how others live and love. Families make us feel like we are a part of theirs for a day and we can capture the happy tears along the way. There’s nothing else like it, in my opinion.

Do you have a favorite, must-capture moment for every wedding?

During the ceremony, I often look for the bride (and grooms) glimpse towards their father while walking down the aisle. Then, of course, the bride and grooms seeing each other for the first time. There really is just so many! I love seeing how parents watch as their children say their vows.

What piece of advice would you give brides and grooms to ensure that they get wedding photos they love forever?

I send a questionnaire to my couples to work with them on a photographic timeline. It’s pretty much the best thing to tell me what is important to them and it creates a day of ease. From this, I already feel like I know them!

What are your favorite wedding trends to photograph right now?

All of the non-traditional trends in the western culture. The first look, casual clothing, and the bouquet rings are gorgeous.

How do you think an app like Joy can help make weddings better?

Organization is key! Knowing your options and staying connected with your guests.

If you weren’t a wedding photographer, what would you be doing?

I’m a digital artist and already do design work, so I would likely be exploring that more. I particularly enjoy logo and menu design currently, and book illustration in the past!

At Joy we believe that even though a wedding lasts a day, joy lasts forever. What does that mean to you?

A feeling can last forever, which is why I photograph. An image is like a song and can evoke those feelings and senses over and over again… like joy.