What began as a passion project nearly seven years ago quickly evolved into a full time business. Anna Elizabeth Photography captures couples and weddings with an unobtrusive and artistic approach on digital and film. Based in Northern California Anna Elizabeth Photography travels worldwide to document unique celebrations.
Where are you based?
I’m based on the Northern California coast near San Francisco, CA but I spend much of my time throughout California, as well as in upstate New York where I grew up!
Do you travel for weddings?
Yes! Absolutely.
How would you describe your style?
With an eye for connection and detail, creating meaningful, emotion-filled imagery is my specialty. My style is at the intersection of observational, romantic, and at times editorial or experimental. I romanticize much of my own life, so I naturally tend to romanticize my couples’ relationships as well, creating space for true vulnerability and uninhibited emotion.
What inspires you?
I’m inspired by nostalgia. I’m always trying to bottle up fleeting moments or feelings in tangible form to hold onto, the way an old photograph can just transport us back into another time entirely. I’m someone who feels everything deeply, so I think the emotional aspect of my personality is always a big driving force behind my work! I’m also inspired by nature, architecture, music, fashion, literature, and cinema.
What motivates you to do what you do?
No matter the medium, creating is what I feel like I was put on earth to do. There’s nothing better than knowing I’m able to create art out of a once in a lifetime day with a couple who I’ve come to truly know and admire through our time working together. The couples I create for really have changed my life irrevocably - and the genuine connections we make, along with the ever-changing emotional landscape of a wedding day, continue to keep me passionate and inspired.
How would you describe your working style?
I capture couples with a blend of gentle direction and a keen eye for the little moments that unfold naturally. I understand that most people aren't innately comfortable with a camera and appreciate some direction along the way, but I also know when to step back and allow the magic to unfold unprompted. I care deeply about the experience of the day. My hope is that my couples genuinely have the best day of their lives and that the photos are the culmination of that, but not the entire focus.
Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?
Both! I consider myself a hybrid photographer, incorporating both 35mm and medium format film at every session and wedding.
What is a favourite product or service that you offer and why?
I adore photographing multi-day weddings and events - offering full weekend coverage is truly the best way to capture the full spectrum of the wedding experience.
Where would you love to travel to for work?
Too many destinations to list! But currently at the top of my list are Australia, New Zealand, Southern France, Scotland, and South Africa.
What is your advice to couples getting married?
Hire vendors that you wholeheartedly trust so you can be totally present and in the moment. The best way to get beautiful and meaningful photos of your day is to immerse yourself fully in the experience. The photos that you’ll cherish most are often the moments where you were able to let go of expectations and just be. There’s so much magic to be found in the unexpected and unplanned.
