Northern Vermont based Katie Jean offers a personalised experience as a documentary photographer. She captures honest moments with an editorial eye and her approach is relaxed, calm and unobtrusive. With each wedding she shoots, Katie Jean strives for a unique and well-crafted gallery that will evoke feelings of nostalgia.
Where are you based?
I live in a little town in Northern Vermont.
Do you travel for weddings?
Oh, most definitely. I’ve photographed weddings all over the US, Mexico, Canada, and Europe.
How would you describe your style?
I have a documentary style with an editorial eye. I will rarely pose or direct a photo outside of designated portrait time, but I will find the good light and gently guide my couples when the moment calls for it.
What is your most memorable career moment?
So many come to mind, but I think my most memorable career moment was at a wedding that happened during 2020. It was a very intimate wedding with less than ten guests. They had the most inspiring day that ended with the warmest, most celebratory dinner complete with lots of wine, speeches, and tears. At one point during the dinner, the groom's father looked at me and had an expression on his face I’ll never forget. I got goosebumps and felt like I needed to take a photo of him in that moment. I took the photo and sort of forgot about it until about six months later when the bride texted to tell me that he had passed and they used that photo for his memorial. She said it was the most “him” photo any of them had ever seen. It really put everything into perspective for me.
What inspires you?
Travel, food, light, music, my daughter. Not necessarily in that order.
How would you describe your working style?
My working style is relaxed, calm, and unobtrusive. I love interacting with guests, but typically find myself quietly scanning the scene for fleeting moments to capture.
Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?
A mixture of both. I’ve been enjoying and shooting more and more film as the years go on.
Where would you love to travel to for work?
Japan, Sweden and Spain are at the top of my list.
Who is your dream client?
I love working with kind, creative people with a strong sense of design, aesthetic, and attention to detail. They incorporate fashion and art into their wedding day but then are able to relax, let go, and love on each other and their guests.
What is your advice to couples getting married?
Hire a planner who understands your vision. The months leading up to your wedding can be stressful and your wedding day goes so fast, so hiring someone you trust is so crucial to the overall feeling of your celebration.
