How did you get into photography? Are you self-taught or formally trained?
During college, my friends and I would go visit state parks to hike and take photos with our phones. That led to getting more serious with photography and eventually having clients request similar photos I was talking with my friends, but for them! Slowly, I started to build a portfolio of portrait and wedding work throughout college and was able to come out of school with enough client work to do it full-time!
Describe your style in one sentence.
I like to go for clean, classic, and moment-focused wedding photography.
What’s been your favorite experience as a wedding photographer?
I get to be a part of a family’s highlight moment and the start of a big change for them. It’s one of the happiest days in their lives. Collectively, all of those moments have been my favorite experience.
Do you have a favorite, must-capture moment for every wedding?
Ah, yes! I love the moment a couple sees each other for the first time; sometimes that’s during the first look and sometimes during the ceremony. Either way of doing it, that moment for them is so emotional, honest, and pure.
As a photographer, what has been your biggest wedding day challenge?
Staying hydrated! When you’re focused on work throughout the day, there aren’t too many moments where you’re able to be intentional, apart from dinner, about drinking water.
What piece of advice would you give brides and grooms to ensure that they get wedding photos they love forever?
Love this question! For me, choosing the photographer that resonates with a couple is key! I’d recommend to all brides and grooms to look for a photographer whose work is timeless and focused on the moments that happen during the day. A clean and classic look always allows for this!
What are your favorite wedding trends to photograph right now?
Brides who wear jackets for their Fall wedding! I can’t get enough of that trend.
If you weren’t a wedding photographer, what would you be doing?
My bachelor’s degree is in marketing and I have experience working in small business, so I’d imagine something in that area!
How do you think an app like Joy can help make weddings better?
Having space where all of your wedding preparation material lives, is the best! Building your guest list, sending invitations, and having your website all in the same place is a game-changer.
At Joy we believe that even though a wedding lasts a day, joy lasts forever. What does that mean to you?
Joy does last forever, doesn’t it? To me, that means the energy you have for your other doesn’t fade. You want to continue working hard to provide for them, do nice things for them, and gift them kind words.
Contact Tyler Phenes Photography here, or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
