When you see images taken by wedding photographer, Christian Oth, it’s not hard to believe he’s a favorite amongst socialites and celebrities alike. He’s a storyteller, and a good one at that. Christian and his talented team of photojournalists have an organic, editorial style of photography that captures the wedding day as it unfolds in an intimate, timeless fashion.  We asked Christian a few questions about wedding photography, as well as his style and method for shooting weddings,  here’s what he shared:

CO: No, it doesn’t matter where the photographer  is from. I’ve shot weddings all over the world with great results. When shooting in a new location that I’m not familiar with, my team and I research the locales thoroughly. This includes travel magazines, websites, and many times I draw on a network of photographers that are either local or other photographers who have been to that location. But it’s sometimes a good thing to bring someone who can see the area/locale through fresh eyes.

TBC:  On average, what’s the timetable for hiring a photographer?

CO: There are certain “hot” dates for specific geographic locations, so it’s prudent to hire the photographer immediately after securing the date/venue. Actual “engagements to wedding” time frames vary widely. I have seen anything from six weeks to two years. Chances are that if you would like to get a photographer in May/June/Sep/Oct you best book him/her a year out or more.

TBC: What is your favorite type of wedding to photograph? Is it the location itself? The lighting? Or the charisma of the subject? 

CO: It is a combination of the best elements coming together at the right time. This means I love having an amazing couple and an incredible venue that has been well planned basically to where everything just comes together perfectly. A favorite for me is not specific to any particular venue, or how it’s lit, or how the couple interact. It’s very easy to say somewhere on a lake in Italy or a beach destination, but it is so much more than that. It’s everything coming together ~ charisma, chemistry, timing, beauty of venue, right time of year, right time of day. All of these elements contribute to giving me what I need to create sensational wedding photos.

TBC: When planning family and group pictures, do you ask your client for a “shot list” of must-have group photos? Or does that limit your creativity to get the shots?

CO: I work with the couple to create a comprehensive shot list, if only to get the wheels turning and the idea communicated. But definitely I take the lead on suggesting to the client what is necessary, and what should be cut based on timing and realistic logistics. Assumptions can’t be made here, a list has to be discussed and referred to on the day, no doubt.

TBC: What are your clients doing with the final images you take? Are photo albums still popular? Or are the images being selected for large framed wall art or other fine art applications?

CO: Photo albums are everything, especially in this age of visual media over-stimulation. There is something extremely special about having spent time on a well-designed album, it’s something to savor and enjoy for years to come.

We thank Christian and his team for sharing these lovely images, and we invite you to visit his website for further information on his photography services.