Brisbane-based Daina Hazel knows that the most important thing for a couple on their wedding day is for them to feel that they can be themselves. Working alongside her Italian husband, Daina lives for the moment and loves taking photographs of couples when they’re authentic and spontaneous. Daina Hazel primarily focuses on intimate affairs in Australia and Italy however, is available to travel wherever the story takes her.
What would you like couples to know about you?
I’d like couples to think of me more as a professional third wheel than another vendor to tick off the list. I understand it can be awkward and vulnerable to be in front of the camera, but my intention is to get to know you both and empower you to be yourselves on the day. That is what truly makes great photography. People in love, focused on nothing but the moment.
Where are you based?
I’m based in Brisbane, Australia and primarily capture intimate weddings across Australia and Italy.
Do you travel for weddings?
Sure do. I grew up travelling, and I’ve lived in over 9 different countries before turning 30. Travel is in my blood!
How would you describe your style?
Documentary, energetic, natural, editorial. I prefer unscripted over posed, light-filled over moody and motion over static. My aim is to show the beauty of the fleeting, emotion-filled moments that normally pass us by.
What is your most memorable career moment?
Booking my first wedding in Italy! As a lawyer who transitioned into photography, it’s been a real life changing experience to finally be behind my camera instead of behind a desk.
What inspires you?
Love and other people’s stories. Italy. My baby niece and family. Language and travel. Good food and wine.
What motivates you to do what you do?
I’ve settled so long in a career I didn’t love (or even like) as a corporate lawyer, and photography motivates me as it makes me feel alive. I love the freedom of working for myself, telling stories and travelling. That’s who I really am.
How would you describe your working style?
My approach is to document the day as it unfolds, only offering direction or assistance when needed. I’ve found a great flow with my couples, as they know that I’ll be there to support, energise or calm them down whenever the moment calls for it.
Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?
Digitally and polaroids, as I love being able to give couples something to take home!
Do you have custom packages according to individual needs?
Yes, but I have a consistent base service that we can build and customise.
What is a favourite product or service that you offer and why?
None! I put love into them all.
Where would you love to travel to for work?
Sempre Italia! Always Italy! I speak Italian, lived in Milan and can exploit my husband’s connections to provide an elevated destination wedding experience to all the couples who may need that extra helping hand in negotiating with vendors and suppliers!
Who is your dream client?
Authentic couples who love to do things differently! I love working with couples that see the value in having a beautiful gallery to remind them of how it all felt, even as the years pass, and aren’t afraid to be themselves.
What is your advice to couples getting married?
Keep asking yourselves during the planning: is this what we actually want? From my own experience, I know weddings can become filled with opinions and preconceptions, but the most important thing is to do what feels right for you both.
