Interview with: Karli Harrison
Company Name: Karli Harrison Photography
Location / Coverage: I’m located in the North West, although I’m happy to travel the country, and beyond!
Can you remember how old you were when you took your first pictures?
I can recall the first time I held a SLR, I was 12 years old. I had all these creative ideas of what the pictures would look like, but when I had the film developed, I was gutted that the pictures looked nothing like I’d envisioned! Thankfully I’ve improved a bit since then.
Had you always wanted to be a photographer?
Yes, when I was young I wanted to work with National Geographic as one of their photographers. I remember looking through my parents’ National Geographic magazines and being captivated by the stunning photographs. I also wanted to be a ballerina!
Which areas of the UK do you cover?
I cover the whole of the UK, and beyond; I love to travel!
What do you feel will set you apart from other wedding photographers?
I am very passionate about my work, as are many photographers, but this passion and a desire to constantly improve really pushes me to work that little bit harder than before, to become more creative with my images. I also feel it’s important to get to know my clients a bit before their big day. I’ve had a number of couples say that I had become more like a friend than just their photographer; I view this as a huge compliment! The best part is if they feel comfortable with you they will feel more natural in front of the camera, which makes for beautiful pictures.
How would you describe your photography style?
I think my style can best be described as a combination of photojournalism and creative wedding photography. I love staying in the background throughout most of the day, but also capturing the important personal details of a wedding. I do like to spend a bit of time alone with the couple for portraits, but I keep the posing to a minimum which certainly makes it more enjoyable for them as they can concentrate on being loved up while I snap away. I feel that the wedding day should be about the couple, not the photographer.
What packages do you offer?
For me it’s important to be there from the bridal preparations until the first dance. I am hired to capture a story, and it would be incomplete if I didn’t spend the whole day with my clients. I provide all images on disc, and I don’t like to give a set number of images to expect as if I end up with loads of gorgeous photos, I certainly won’t keep them from the couple for the sake of numbers. Please check out my website for further package details.
What is the best thing about the job?
It’s definitely hearing lovely feedback from couples when they view their pictures for the first time; it makes it worth all the hard work involved. It’s a privilege to be asked to be part of a wedding day and capture their memories — I never take that for granted.
Do you have a specialist area of photography?
I mainly focus on weddings, although I seem to have a knack for capturing interesting portraits of young children, but I think that’s because I have a toddler of my own, so I have plenty of practice at home! Although she’s not usually the most willing of models…
Who/what are your influences?
I was first inspired by my friend and fellow photographer from California, Shutterdee Photography. Seeing her stunning sunny images inspired me to get my own camera and give photography a go.
Do you have a favourite picture that you have taken (If you can choose!)?
Hmm, that’s a hard one! There are a few that come to mind, but I think my favourite would probably be the image of the gorgeous Claire that was featured as ‘Picture of the Day’ here on The Wedding Community in July, and then it went on to win the Picture of the Year competition. For that it has become special to me.
What is your top tip for choosing a wedding photographer?
Check out the photographer’s work and style properly. Don’t just look at prices, and don’t go for the cheapest photographer you can find. Recently I was asked to do a photo shoot in the style of a wedding, as the couple were so unhappy with the photographs provided by their photographer. We got some stunning shots in the re-shoot, but they can never replace the sentimental value of the actual day itself.
Random question… What was your favourite school subject?
It definitely wasn’t maths, or history. I think my favourite subject was art, as it allowed me to be creative which is what I do best.
Where can people find out more about Karli Harrison Photography?
You can see more of my work at karliharrisonphotography.com, and come join me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/KarliHarrisonPhotography.
