How did you get into photography? Are you self-taught or formally trained?
I have always loved photography, ever since my early school days. It was a subject I studied and adored at college and I continued to study the technical and practical side to photography whilst studying my BA Hons in Fashion Communication. My degree basically consisted of experimenting with Fine art and Fashion photography both within the studio and on-location. I then went on to working in stills production for a couple of London agencies and it was here that I learned more about big-scale productions, camera equipment, and technicalities. Although I loved working in this industry, I knew it wasn’t quite the right type of photography career I wanted. So I made the brave decision to leave the chaotic London life and start up on my own capturing the things I love which are real people and real emotions in beautiful locations that surround us.
Describe your style in one sentence.
It’s hard to put the words into one sentence with it making sense but I would describe my style as: Contemporary, with a documentary edge for those non-traditional and crazy in love couples
What do you love most about photographing weddings? Why do you photograph weddings in particular?
A lot of people ask if I find it stressful being a wedding photographer because I am responsible for capturing one of the most important days of peoples lives. My answer is always, “No, because that’s what I love!” I get to be a part of someones special day, make new friends, surround myself with happy people because who isn’t happy on their wedding day!? Most importantly, it all comes down to that overwhelming feeling of self-achievement when couples receive their final images and are over the moon. There is no better feeling when it is so personal.
Do you have a favorite, must-capture moment for every wedding?
Every wedding is different, but I always love a good confetti shot, a fun bridal party shot and the golden hour is always a must if I am lucky with good weather.
As a photographer, what has been your biggest wedding day challenge?
I would say my biggest challenge has been photographing a wedding by myself where it rained all day. When I say rained, it poured! The wedding was also in three different locations in the autumn. It was very physically challenging and time challenging due to limited daylight hours, changing locations and carrying all my equipment. I had to be prepared to get soaked and be quick thinking with group and couple photos.
What piece of advice would you give brides and grooms to ensure that they get wedding photos they love forever? (This can include tips about preparation, choosing a photographer, or anything else.)
There is lots of advice to offer but the main point would be research, research, research! There are so many amazing photographers out there, make sure you explore options so you know you definitely have found the right one for you. Ask to see a full wedding album, and not just a few photos they use to advertise, you want to make sure the quality of a photographers work is consistent. Check reviews and ask as many questions as you want! Don’t be shy, most photographers will understand the importance of finding someone who is perfect for you.
What are your favorite wedding trends to photograph right now?
I don’t necessarily have favorite trends, but I always love to capture anything out of the ordinary or that’s far from ‘traditional’ wedding photography. I love when couples get creative with ideas for their day whether that’s photo props, a secret flash mob routine, or even their pets turning up on the day!
How do you think an app like Joy can help make weddings better?
I think Joy can definitely make the process of wedding planning better and more enjoyable for couples. It’s great to have everything in one place, which is perfect for those who struggle with organization! It’s definitely a platform I would like to use when planning my own wedding.
If you weren’t a wedding photographer, what would you be doing?
I would like to think that I would be traveling the world with my cameras and fiancé. I would love to one day do both!
At Joy we believe that even though a wedding lasts a day, joy lasts forever. What does that mean to you?
I agree it is crazy how quickly the day comes and goes! I believe it’s important to take a moment on your day to step back and take a look at all your loved ones that have come together to celebrate your marriage. It’s that overwhelming feeling of pure joy and happiness in those very moments that continue to live in your photographs, forever in memory, and through marriage.
You can contact Jessica Bevan Photography here or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
