Tasneem Alsultan: The Marriage of East & West and Adventuring in Berirut

Tasneem began her great global adventures at a very young age, having been born to Saudi parents in the United States, and then having been brought up between the States and England.  Although she doesn’t have a British accent, Tasneem still uses classic British jargon like “pram” and “curtains”, but with an American accent!

Tasneem’s passion for photography was apparent as a child, but she only decided to take her infatuation seriously about three years ago.  At the time, Tasneem was a lecturer in English Literature in Bahrain and was enjoying shooting portraits of family and children as a weekend hobby.  It was only after she shot her first wedding that she understood how exhilarating photography could be!  Consequently, the adrenaline rush of being able to capture just the right moment at the exact right time, and the running to and fro to cover all bases is what attracted her to shoot weddings as a full time job.  Tasneem didn’t bat an eye; she quit her post as a lecturer, moved to Dubai and proceeded shooting weddings internationally!

Full of passion for her art, her subjects and the beauty of the exotic locations she visits, Tasneem has an artful eye and a flair for the dramatic.  Her unique family background has given her work an original blend of both Eastern and Western aspects, creating a beautiful marriage of the two, a unification of simplicity and extravagance.  Tasneem’s style is concise, clean, contemporary… yet, still whimsical enough to capture the romance of a wedding!  She loves to hone in on the emotion of the Day- passionate, joyful and classic moments that always tell the timeless tale of love.

Recently, Tasneem shot a sumptuous event in Beirut, which we are exhilarated to share with you!  Get the scoop on Lebanese culture and life directly from the source as Tasneem outlines her great expectations and experiences while in Beirut! 

Tasneem Alsultan

Tasneem Alsultan, on Shooting the Nuptials of Line and Elias in Beirut:

Simply the thought of Lebanon conjures notions of the colorful culture, deliciously fresh cuisine, beautiful vistas and vast history.  These thoughts bring joyous and sweet memories to any travelers who have visited, however, if you have not, my artful images will tell all!  Celebrants who have attended weddings in Beirut have always related the same positive experience of glorious outdoor functions filled with fun-loving crowds. Regardless of the generation, everyone in Lebanon loves to party and enjoys their time together!

Tasneem Alsultan
Tasneem Alsultan

Obviously, as a wedding photographer, I wanted to experience shooting these types of joyous occasions, and to capture the emotions surrounding such culturally-significant events, however, I also just wanted a chance to explore the vibrant offerings of the country itself!  Since I can remember, I have been a fan of anything relating to the Lebanese. I hold a great deal of respect for the culture, and have found that many religions and sects are intertwined, even accepting marriages between the different groups.

Tasneem Alsultan

Wedding photographers, especially myself, would brag on how many happy families they’ve shot and met during their adventures in photography.  It’s true.  We are very fortunate to engage in a profession were we meet people on the happiest of occasions. However, it is rare to see a family that has broken all cultural and religious barriers to provide true happiness for their loved ones.  While in Beirut, it was a lovely surprise to find that the newlyweds came from different faiths, and were not willing to let that be a restriction on their relationship. I enjoyed how optimistic the couple and even their families were, always loving, encouraging and full of smiles.

Tasneem Alsultan

Line and Elias, thank you for including us in your wedding!  I am humbled that you have allowed me into the beginning of your life together.  My trip to Beirut is a cherished memory, because you made my team feel so welcome. Thank you for introducing us to your incredible family and friends, and for showing us around your beautiful country, Lebanon!  Especially taking us out to explore upon our arrival, when it’s usual for a bride to be thinking and worrying over her hair, scheduling, final details and everything else wedding-related!

I cannot help but mention that I adored your personalized, custom-tailored French wedding dress!  The enticing outdoor forrest and lavender-spring theme created a lovely backdrop whilst you gazed into one another’s eyes, and repeated your vows.

Tasneem Alsultan
Tasneem Alsultan