PHOTOGRAPHER | Justine Montigny

Michigan- based photographer Justine Montigny enjoys working in an unobtrusive way with couples of all backgrounds, who aren’t afraid to take creative risks. With a discerning eye for light and composition, Justine Montigny loves to capture natural moments as they unfold.

Tell us about your business!

Since 2014, I have collaborated with and photographed over 250 lovely, kind and unique couples at home and abroad, and am always looking forward to connecting and celebrating with people of all backgrounds. My work is characterized by a snapshot-like aesthetic, shooting quickly and from the hip, with a discerning eye for light, composition and the heart of a moment.

Where are you based?

Michigan, USA - about forty minutes away from dreamy Lake Michigan.

Do you travel for weddings?

Often! I do a lot of domestic travel around the states coast-to-coast and would love to do more international work.

What inspires you?

My parents received candid imagery on medium format of their wedding in the 80’s, and the handful of posed portraits were so relaxed that my dad is goofing off in most of them. I have four sisters and I can see all of us in both of my parent’s expressions even though half of us didn’t even exist yet, and this is priceless for me. This is how I want my coverage to age over time.

How would you describe your working style?

Collaborative and curious.

Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?

Both! I shoot primarily digital for the whole day and shoot a handful of rolls of 35mm on a point and shoot and some portraits on 120. I love the juxtaposition of digital files against film scans.

Do you have custom packages according to individual needs?

I have a one page info sheet that I send out that is really easy to digest quickly and fits most coverage needs. Everything is a la carte. If I’m being presented with a gathering that doesn’t quite fit what is on the info sheet, I work with the couple to create something custom that aligns with individual needs.

Where would you love to travel for work?

Is it possible to travel to a movie scene? I dream of the chocolate dinner in the film Chocolat daily - the long table under the metal scaffolding in the courtyard of an old French house in a quiet French village, a draped sheet to diffuse the sunlight, the most sumptuous feast during spring time, everybody lost in savoring what they’re feeling. Could live there forever.

My real answer is: anywhere. I appreciate any space that the couple feels deeply connected to - it seems to heighten the sentimentality and archival significance of every photo.

Who is your dream client?

My clients are unabashedly themselves, aren’t afraid to take creative risks and trust their vendor teams.

What is your advice to couples getting married?

You’re spending a lot of money on what is likely going to be the greatest party of your life, so do what feels good and disregard the rest.