Photography crush: Steven Dray Images
July 13, 2015
We heart photographers! At JPC Event Group, we pride ourselves in attention to every detail of your day. One of the most rewarding parts of our business is working with talented photographers who capture these details with pinache and style! A great wedding and event photographer not only captures these beautiful details, but is able to translate the emotion and feeling of the day through their lens. This week, we are crushing on Steven Dray Images.
Steven Dray Images is a talented photographer who goes above and beyond to capture your most special moments. He loves shooting unique weddings just as much as we love planning them! He has even traveled to Paris to capture couples romantic engagement session. Tres chic!
Steven Dray loves working with couples to tell their stories and is driven by his passion for photography. We loved working with Steven Dray Images to create Angela and Elliott’s unforgettable night at Rustic Acres Farm. Garnish Event Design helped create a romantic setting that was complete with the Farm’s rippling creek, expansive views, rolling fields and grazing horses.
Get to know the talented Steven Dray from Steven Dray Images:
How far in advance do I need to book with you?
“Typically I book 6-12 months out. Yes, I book a few sooner and a few later than that but I would say the majority of my couples land within that margin. I always encourage people to book as soon as possible because I absolutely hate turning down amazing weddings & really awesome couples!”
How long have you been in business?
“My business started in 2011 as a hobby/side job. I knew I needed an artistic outlet where I could earn a living! Most photographers know the first year or two is all about learning, adjusting and figuring out your groove. I shot a few weddings and it wasn’t long before my schedule was completely stacked!”
How would you describe your photography style? (e.g. traditional, photo journalistic, creative)
“I get asked this question a lot and I find it intimating to brag about myself but it turns out that couples want to know their photographer is confident. I describe my style as a mix of photojournalism and ultra creativeness. I capture tons of real moments but creatively adjust to the situation in order to make the images beautiful as well.”
How would you describe your working style? (e.g. blends into the background and shoots what unfolds naturally, or creates a more visible presence by taking charge and choreographing shots )
“My working style is fun and patient. I love letting people be who they are. I am a bit goofy and I typically say some off the wall stuff but I know when the moment is right to sit back and let the emotions unfold. Some photographers feel the need to constantly talk to clients but there is also a need to listen as well.”
What do you think distinguishes your work from that of other photographers?
“The thing that I believe sets me apart from other photographers is the freshness of my work. I can be placed in the same location or venue as numerous other photographers and I will still find ways to photograph it in a fresh and unique way. I do my best to connect with my clients and I am always pushing myself to be better. I want to pull emotion out of clients and put it in to a photo. I want to look back every year and feel and see growth in my photography.”
What type of equipment do you use?
“Right now I almost exclusively use Canon gear. I am a huge sucker for prime lenses because they give me the look that I want. My go to camera and lens is the Canon 6D and Sigma Art 35mm 1.4. (Ironically the only non-Canon gear I own) I always make sure to have back up gear and I use two cameras during my weddings.”
Do you shoot in digital or film format or both?
“I would say my work flow is mostly digital. I incorporate instant film and Polaroids too. I often shoot with my Polaroid Land Camera 360. I have always been a big fan of the way instant film delivers instant gratification with that old time look but digital helps me keep my work flow consistent and fast.”
What was your favorite/memorable wedding that you photographed?
“I love all my weddings. Haha! I know I have to say that though. One wedding that was super memorable to me was the year my daughter was born. Her due date was the same day of an awesome wedding. I was
under an immense amount of pressure and super nervous to deliver a good set of photos. Turns out I work well under pressure. My daughter was not born that night but I did shoot one of the best weddings I have ever done. I truly believe that wedding helped me book so many more jobs. That was a moment I realized that no matter what was thrown at me whether it was family drama, bad weather or wedding dilemmas I could handle it. I can remain calm and do my job no matter what. And my daughter was born 10 days later!”
Can’t get enough of our photography crush Steve Dray Images?
Visit him at http://www.stevendrayimages.com!