PHOTOGRAPHER | Daina Hazel

Daina Hazel is an Australian photographer known for her candid, documentary-style approach. She works with her Italian husband Lorenzo and is based on the border of Italy and Switzerland. Daina brings a calm and supportive presence to your special day, capturing genuine moments. Daina Hazel is fluent in both English and Italian and is available for weddings around the globe.

Tell us about your business!

I’m Daina Hazel, an Australian wedding photographer currently based in Europe. My work is centred around capturing real moments - the kind that feel unscripted, joyful, and true to you.

I fell in love with wedding photography because of the value these images hold once the day is over. It’s often only in hindsight that we realise how special the ordinary moments really were. And when the music fades and the flowers are gone, what remains are the photos; the memories, the laughter, the people who were there. They become something to return to, to pass down, to hold onto - proof of how it all felt, and how much fun you had along the way.

What would you like couples to know about you?

I care a lot about the people I work with. This isn’t just a job for me — I show up fully. I want you to feel comfortable, seen, and free to be yourselves. I don’t expect you to know how to pose or perform. You just be you, and I’ll take care of the rest. I love travel, languages and I’ll always go the extra mile to make sure things run smoothly (my background as a corporate lawyer remains a part of me, so I will always be stickler for organisation and details!). I’m passionate about good food, wine and learning new things and I often feel like an old soul, born in the wrong generation!

Where are you based?

Lugano, Switzerland on the border of Italy and Switzerland.

Do you travel for weddings?

Sure do!

How would you describe your style?

Unposed, intentional, and true to the day. I’m drawn to natural light, movement, and the real stuff — not forced smiles or stiff setups. It’s part documentary, part editorial, all about capturing you as you are.

What is your most memorable career moment?

There have been a few, but the ones that stay with me are the quiet, emotional ones, like when a couple forgets I’m even there and just sinks into the moment. That’s when the most meaningful photos happen.

What inspires you?

People and how they connect. Real emotions. A good story, in any form. Music. Great wine and hospitality. Cinema inspires me a lot, as does my Italian husband Lorenzo and learning about Italian history and culture.

How would you describe your working style?

Low-pressure, observant, and relaxed. I’m there when you need direction, but I step back when I don’t. I want your day to unfold naturally, and I do my best to position myself strategically or give you ideas to help capture you all in your best light.

Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?

I primarily shoot digital due to the fast paced nature of turnaround and also environmental impacts, but I also shoot 35mm film.

Do you have custom packages according to individual needs?

Absolutely. No two weddings are the same, so I keep things flexible. I have base packages to give you an idea of what is typical, then we’ll figure out what makes sense for your day, your pace, and your priorities.

What is a favourite product or service that you offer and why?

I honestly love seeing the images I take come into physical form, so it must be albums. It’s one thing to scroll photos on a screen, but holding your story in your hands hits differently. It becomes part of your home, your history.

Where would you love to travel to for work?

I’m already based in Italy so I can’t ask for anymore! This year is taking me to incredible villas and chateaus so I couldn’t be more grateful.

Who is your dream client?

Someone who values photos not just for how they look, but for how they feel. People who trust the process, don’t sweat the small stuff, and just want to be present with the people they love.

What is your advice to couples getting married?

Let go of perfect. Be present. The best moments often aren’t planned, and the best photos won’t be the posed ones. Trust the process, feel everything, and celebrate it all.

Daina Hazel

Website: daina-hazel.com

Instagram: @daina.hazel