Getting to Know - Moritz Schmittat Photography

Company Name: Moritz Schmittat Photography

Interview with: Moritz Schmittat

Location / Coverage: Surrey, London, Sussex, Berkshire, and Hampshire

How did your business get started and who works at Moritz Schmittat Photography?

I started Moritz Schmittat Photography in 2012, and it’s just me who works for the business.

Had you always wanted to be a photographer?

I’m actually a trained musician, but I have always loved photography. In 2012 I made the switch to become a full-time photographer.

Can you remember how old you were when you took your first picture? What was it of?

I worked in a care home for a year and in my spare time took portraits of the residents. I love people and faces with a story.

Which areas of the UK do you cover?

I shoot weddings in Surrey, London, Sussex, Berkshire and Hampshire.

What do you feel sets you apart from other wedding photographers?

I shoot photography and videography as one package. This means less hassle for the couple, a much better deal and the photos and the video will have the same look and feel. My photography clients often upgrade to photo and video a couple of months before their wedding.

How would you describe your photography style?

One word — storytelling. I like impressive ‘composed’ portraits too, but the pictures with the best story aren’t staged. These moments just happen and it’s my job to conserve them forever.

What packages do you offer and what are your rates?

My all-day packages have absolutely no time limit. 16h days are nothing unusual for me. Photography or videography is £1,900, both together are only £3,200. All prices include all post-production work afterwards, travel expenses, unlimited usage rights (no hidden fees) and even VAT (I operate under a fully-insured limited company).

What is the best thing about your job?

Witnessing special moments and knowing my pictures will be looked at for many many years to come.

Do you have a specialist area of photography?

I make a clear separation between the reportage parts of a wedding (shooting in stealth mode, documenting the day in a photojournalistic way) and the official photo shoot. I’m a specialist in ‘being there’ unnoticed, but when it comes to the ‘posed’ photo shoot I do take initiative in order to compose pictures with a wow-factor.

Who/what are your influences?

I follow many fellow wedding photographers online who all inspire me a lot. I’m probably looking at hundreds of images every week.

Do you have a favourite picture that you have taken (If you can choose!)?

My favourite picture is Rebecca and Lee dancing alone in a huge ballroom. It’s an intimate, romantic moment in an impressive setting. Just two people being in love can fill the whole room!

What’s your top tip for choosing a wedding photographer?

You need to have a personal connection. Just meet him or her before you book and see how you feel. This person will be around you all the time on one of the biggest days of your life, so make sure you feel comfortable.

Random question… What was the most thoughtful Christmas present you received?

A weekend away.

What’s a typical wedding day like for Moritz Schmittat Photography?

I arrive early in the morning and shoot the bridal preparations, the venue and all the bits and pieces for about two hours. Then I rush over to the groom for some portraits of him and his mates.

I like to be at the venue at least 30min before the ceremony to photograph the guests arriving. After the ceremony I recommend one ‘everybody shot’ instead of many small groups (these just slow the party down). Until the dinner break I’m basically constantly shooting and while I eat I’m already doing the first backups.

I’m often the last to leave the venue — I don’t want to miss anything. Shooting a wedding often means a 16h day, so I do need some rest the next day to recharge!