In Conversation With Wedding Photographer Anton of Across The Forest
Rooted in a deep love for storytelling and a sharp editorial eye, Anton of Across The Forest brings a calm presence and an emotive lens to every celebration he captures. His style blends candid intimacy with a refined edge, resulting in images that feel both honest and artful.
How did your journey into wedding photography begin?
My journey into wedding photography began with a deep appreciation for authentic storytelling and a desire to capture genuine human connection. I found myself drawn to the raw emotions and unscripted moments that unfold during a wedding day. My love for photography, combined with a passion for celebrating love stories, naturally led me to this field. I started by documenting friends' and family members' special occasions, honing my skills in capturing candid moments and developing my unique style. It was through these experiences that I realised the power of photography to preserve cherished memories and the joy of being a part of such significant milestones.
What do you love most about capturing the emotions and stories of a wedding day?
There's something truly magical about capturing those fleeting, genuine moments – the tearful vows, the bursts of laughter during speeches, the quiet glances exchanged between partners. I find immense satisfaction in creating a visual narrative that allows couples to relive their wedding day, years down the line. It's about more than just taking pretty pictures; it's about capturing the essence of their unique connection and the heartfelt stories that unfold, creating a timeless keepsake of their most cherished memories.
How would you describe your style?
While I often refer to it as lifestyle wedding photography, it's truly a unique mix. A carefully crafted cocktail of heartfelt candid moments captured with a natural feel, infused with a touch of 'oomph' to elevate the emotion. I also incorporate a dash of editorial frames, adding a curated, artistic touch, and sprinkle in some moody snaps for depth and atmosphere. Ultimately, I aim for a relaxed, photojournalistic approach, but with a quirky edge.
What’s your approach to creating a connection with couples so they feel at ease in front of your camera?
My approach to connecting with couples is all about creating a relaxed and enjoyable experience. I ditch the stiff poses and instead offer gentle direction, suggesting natural interactions rather than demanding frozen sculptures. Expect a blend of lighthearted banter, a few (admittedly cheesy) dad jokes, and maybe even a celebratory sip of bubbly. My goal is to create a comfortable atmosphere where you can truly be yourselves, allowing your genuine emotions to shine through. It's about building trust, so you feel less like you're in front of a camera and more like you're hanging out with a friend who happens to be capturing your special day.
Can you share a particularly unforgettable wedding moment you’ve captured and why it holds a special place for you?
You know, every wedding is a treasure trove of unforgettable moments. But if I had to pick one that truly stands out, it would be Will and John's ceremony kiss. It wasn't just the breathtaking llocation, the ceremony took place on top of Sydney Harbour Bridge (which, let's be honest, was pretty spectacular!). What made it truly special was the raw, genuine emotion radiating from everyone around them. The shot I captured wasn't about the location; it was about the pure, unfiltered happiness of Will and John, and the incredible wave of support from their friends. Smiles, tears, cheers, applause – it was magical. To see that level of joy, that shared celebration, in one frame. It was something extra special.
What’s one piece of advice you always give couples?
My biggest piece of advice is to choose a photographer you genuinely connect with. Your photographer will be there for every moment, capturing the most intimate and joyful parts of your wedding day. So, find someone whose work you adore and, more importantly, someone whose presence makes you feel completely comfortable and at ease. That trust will allow you to relax and fully immerse yourselves in the magic of your wedding, knowing every precious moment is being beautifully preserved.
How do you balance the spontaneity of candid moments with curated portraits?
My core approach is photojournalistic, allowing me to seamlessly document the candid, unscripted moments that truly define a wedding day. This involves blending into the background, observing, and reacting to the natural flow of events. When it's time for portraits, I shift gears, offering gentle guidance and suggestions to create relaxed, natural-looking images. Even during portraits, I look for those spontaneous moments of connection, a shared laugh or a tender glance, to infuse the curated shots with authenticity.
What do you believe sets your work apart?
It's all about crafting a truly bespoke experience. I don’t have a set list of cookie-cutter poses! I do my best to understand what is unique to each couple and the way they want to celebrate their relationships. But it's not just about the photos. Many of my couples in reviews mention something else: a sense of calm. Weddings can be a whirlwind, a beautiful chaos, and I pride myself on being a grounding presence amidst it all. That calm, that sense of control, allows them to truly relax and savour every precious moment. Because at the end of the day, it's not just about the pictures; it's about the feeling, the memories, the pure, unadulterated joy of the day. And that's what I strive to capture, authentically and beautifully.
Visit acrosstheforest.com.au
Instagram @across_ the_ forest
DISCLAIMER: We attempt to credit the original photographer/source of every image we use. However, in most circumstances, the images we use are provided by the brands spoken about, and we rely on them to inform us of the image source. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at info@theodoremagazine.com
More For You
