Interview with photographer, From the Hip Photo

Every time we build a suit for a groom it’s a huge privilege. It’s an opportunity for us to build a very special suit for a very special day. And as you may imagine, being a wedding vendor means that from time to time we have the distinct opportunity to meet some other great vendors — ones that reflect our same level of service and quality. Just this morning, I had coffee with Nina and Danny de Zayas: the power couple behind Denver’s From the Hip Photo. They are both very kind and gracious people and they are incredibly skilled at what they do.

So, I couldn’t help but ask them a handful of questions that I think are very relevant to any of you that may be getting married this year — or thinking about proposing in the coming months :).

1. [Ryan] How would you describe your particular approach to wedding photography? What makes From the Hip Photo different?

[Nina and Danny] Our commitment to creating a stress-free, seamless experience for our couples is a huge part of why we’re the best reviewed photographers in all of Colorado. The moments we capture are obviously the most enduring piece of the work we provide and we have a distinctive style that is vibrant, fresh, and honest. However, I think where we’ve really been able to set ourselves apart is on that relationship front.

We understand how crazy-making the whole wedding planning process can be and we try to be good guides to our couples and make sure they are totally taken care of throughout. Whether that is helping them make quality connections with other vendors, giving honest feedback about locations and timelines, or simply being proactive about ways we can provide support, I think that intangible aspect of what we do is priceless. It’s something that comes up in pretty much every review a bride or groom leaves us (and is probably a reason why we wind up befriending so many of our couples after the fact!).

2. What kinds of things can a groom do to look his best in his wedding photos? Any common mistakes that grooms are making in your experience?

It’s strange to point to a Greek philosopher for fashion advice, but Epictetus said it best: “Know, first, who you are, and then adorn yourself accordingly.”

Our best piece of advice is to make choices that reflect your personality. That keeps things sincere and comfortable, and also creates space for injecting who you are into the wedding day mix. Cufflinks, socks, and ties are all easy jumping off points for sneaking in some quirky, fun choices. More generally, if you’ve never worn a tuxedo, don’t opt for a black-tie affair. If you’re comfortable in your wedding day attire, you’re going to have a much better time.

3. When searching for a wedding photographer, what are the important qualities that a couple should be looking for?

The single-most important aspect of selecting any vendor is doing your homework to see what other couples have had to say about the experience of working with them. A photographer can cherry-pick a few pretty images to put up on a website, but they can’t fake their track record.

After that, look for a portfolio that resonates with you. Almost no one is a photo expert; instead, trust your gut. Most photographers have a clientele that is self-selecting in this manner, and we know that we here the same sorts of “values” about photography from our couples.

Lastly, artists and creative types are notoriously bad at running businesses. Look for things like how quickly and effectively a photography company communicates with you. Are they speaking to you on a personal level and interested in your priorities or vision? Is there enthusiasm about you and your specific wedding day? Look for passion, positivity, and the feeling that this is their true calling in life!

Contact

Reach out directly to Danny at 720-251-5329 or email the From the Hip Photo team at [email protected] today and get started!

We also loved getting to know the team behind JXC Photo, another Denver based wedding photographer.