1-1 with Joab Smith - Destination Wedding Photographer
Destination wedding photographer Joab Smith on all things photography, weddings in Italy and Covid-19.
We are delighted to welcome the very talented photographer joab smith to our blog. we had the absolute privilege of working with Joab last season in Ravello and we were so impressed with his incredible work and boundless enthusiasm on the day. His energy is infectious and we are very much looking forward to working together again soon.
1. You've been a photographer for over 10 years. What first inspired you to be a photographer?
I found my parents film camera when I was about 14 and I think I enjoyed the process of it, you only had 35 shots so you really had to make them count. It meant I slowed down, thought about every shot was always excited to see the results weeks later. It also gave me a good footing to make sure I really understood settings in preparation for the crazy quick nature of weddings!
2. Having first hand experience myself, I know that weddings can be naturally stressful and fast paced events, is this part of the attraction for you as a wedding photographer? How do you cope with that?
The energy is definitely part of the attraction, as well as the people. In hindsight the stress is usually fun but when there's an epic sunset beginning outside the window and the best man is entering minute 53 of his speech it's like I've got ants in my pants! Part of what I love now is that because I'm used to dealing with so many different situations I'm confident I can get awesome photos whatever happens. If we miss sunset then we take some stunning 'blue light' photos, or a photograph under the stars later on. Stresses that used to worry me like rain, wind or lack of time for photographs I now embrace and do my best under the circumstances.
3. Having been a part of many weddings in different countries and venues over the years, which is the top location/venue for you as a photographer and why?
I've definitely fallen in love with Ravello. It's the perfect size, with perfect views and perfect food. Photographing a wedding at Villa Eva was very special and now my mind's full of ideas for the other stunning venues there. I spent some time taking photos around Villa Rufolo (website) and the options for epic, dramatic photos and romantic photos are endless. Similarly I enjoyed a drink at Belmond Hotel Caruso (website) and just one photograph using their infinity pool with the views in the background would make me happy for the year I think! I'd love the opportunity.
4. What tips would you give to couples when researching photography and what would you say are the most important things to consider before booking your wedding photographer?
Of course you have to love their work firstly, but honestly I think it's so important that you get on and have similar attitudes towards the day. If a photographer wants to take you away for an hour and set you up in a million poses but you're not a big fan of posing and you'd rather be drinking with guests then maybe look for someone who enjoys shooting more naturally. Personally I think it works just as well to give the couple some space to really take in the day and make a few suggestions along the way, it doesn't need to take long so I'm flexible with what the couple wants. In general make sure you chat to potential photographers so you can be sure they're keen to do what you want to do!
5. What can couples do in preparation to make photographing them easier on the day and for them to ensure they get the best wedding photos?
Firstly if you're having an absolute blast then your photographer will likely be having a blast photographing you. The lesson there is above all enjoy yourselves, don't worry about anything you don't need to and once the day's begun just roll with it. I've written a bit more about this here: https://www.joabsmithphotography.co.uk/dont-let-wedding-pressure-ruin-your-day/
Secondly the closer you are with each other on the day (physically) the better the photos with look. If you can get used to holding hands, cuddling a little tighter than usual and generally just embracing each other at every opportunity it'll make for beautifully romantic photos.
6. What, in your opinion, is the benefit of having a destination wedding, photographically speaking?
The weather helps, good light is never to be sniffed at. The architecture plays a huge role too, I'd be happy simply using a cobbled street or side alley in Ravello for photos, the stone and ancient features just make it easy! Of course if you can get to the beach or a stunning viewpoint it's another easy win for the photographer, with pretty much anywhere along the Amalfi Coast you can't go wrong. Some people dress a little differently too which can be a fun opportunity for the couple and photographer to embrace.
7. What positive impact do you think Covid-19 will have on the wedding industry?
It sounds niche but I think some photographers are realising how helpful it can be to have a good bit of headspace. When you're self employed it's tempting to take as much work as you can but that can bite you and potentially affect couples when the photographer can't quite cope with the workload throughout the summer. Some photographers even do three weddings in a row! Years ago I realised that it's just not worth the stress and this is reinforcing it, I'd much rather be 100% full of beans for every wedding I shoot and deliver the photos within a good amount of time. I'm certainly ready to shoot my next wedding now though haha!
8. What is your advice to couples affected by Covid-19 for their 2020 weddings?
It really is crap and my heart goes out to them but I honestly think the day will be more special as a result, so think about how excited people are going to be to get out and party again already!