The man behind the lens: Justin Aaron
Since 2010, Justin Aaron has been the man behind countless wedding photos, creating lasting memories for 100’s of couples. Mr Theodore spent some time with Justin to gain an insight into his world of wedding photography, wedding photography that is beyond phenomenal.
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Tell us a little about your background in wedding photography?
I have been photographing weddings since the summer of 2010.
When I first started, I was a graduate architect, assisting a talented local photographer. It was a great experience, an eye-opener to the industry and a foot in the door. In 2011, with his blessing, I began full time solo as Justin Aaron Weddings, shooting amazing couples all over the east coast and internationally. I started to feature online and in print, doing my own thing, in my own way.
I made a deliberate decision early on to approach weddings in a less traditional way, to aim for an effortless, editorial manner, prioritising honest moments over constructed poses. Things moved pretty quickly for me, I was a full-time wedding photographer seven months after starting www.justinaaron.com.au
What lead you down the path of photographing weddings?
I had just returned from shooting a beautiful wedding in Amsterdam when it occurred to me what a unique opportunity I had been given. Photographing weddings is something I’m really good at, people trusted me to fly all over the world to document their moments, I was making a living and loving my life. It was then that I really decided to pursue this as permanent career.
How has wedding photography changed from when you first started until now?
Wedding photography is cooler now. When I started it wasn’t so much. Instagram didn’t exist and when it came on the scene, everything changed. There are so many different genres of wedding photographers now. That’s a fantastic thing, it gives couples the power to choose something that really connects with them.
What is the one thing you find couples are asking for most?
Couples want to spend more time with their loved ones. They want a glass of champagne in hand with their nearest and dearest. They want their love to be celebrated, validated, all in a beautiful and stylish setting. Effortless, engaging photography that is timeless and editorial. Photographs that communicate what it felt like to be there.
Describe your photography style and your unique approach to weddings…
Relaxed, honest and editorial.
My process is to quietly and creatively document my observations during the day. I do my best to be respectful in any situation. I only give direction when required. I feel this gives my photography a relaxed and elegant quality.
What can couples expect from you as their wedding photographer?
I approach wedding photography with my own unique eye and deliberately try not to be distracted by the work of other wedding photographers, which I feel allows my work to stand on its own.
I have an ability to read shifting emotional and social dynamics throughout the day, responding in a fun, casual and engaging manner, without overpowering and making it about themselves.
What is your favourite part of the wedding to photograph?
I truly love every part.
The getting ready photos, where I get to pick up the first sense of the day. The relaxed interactions over a wine or two. The details: shoes, suits, dresses, jewellery, stationery. The relaxed, sometimes nervous, portraits. The honest moments during the ceremony. Listening to couples express themselves without concern or restraint. The moment when a couple are alone, and realise they are married for the first time. The speeches. The dancing, the partying, the smiles. The guy who loves the limelight a little too much. Your parents dancing together. Your niece up way past her bedtime dancing in your brothers arms.
Really, I can’t pick a single favourite part.
In your opinion, why is it important to have a good wedding photographer?
When the day is all said and done, one thing that will always remain are the photos. They are what you will share with those that couldn’t make it to the party. They will tell your story to family and future generations to come. Photographs capture the beauty of human interaction and connection, the looks, the laughs, the tears, the deep breaths, the caress of a hand. A photographer should document all this in a beautiful, timeless and connected manner, drawing you into the frame, making you feel as if you are there.
Where can couples see your work?
Check out my Instagram @justinaaronweddings
And my website www.justinaaron.com.au
Finally, your favourite piece of advice to couples just starting out on their wedding planning journey…
There has never been a better time to get married. My favourite weddings are the ones that are a true expression of the couple. Focus on what is unique to you, find that, then express that in your own loving and honest environment.
Be relaxed, curious and simply enjoy.
Find more of Justin Aaron on the Mr Theodore wedding directory, just click the button below.
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