Alex Vaidean from Symphony of Light specialises in film photography and in creating beautiful imagery from the mundane. She is driven by a passion for candid and real moments and is an empathetic photographer with a quiet approach, who romanticises life through her camera lens. Symphony of Light is based in Romania and travels throughout Europe to capture weddings.
What would you like couples to know about you?
I’m Alex, a non-traditional documentary wedding photographer. My entire life people thought I’m a man, because of my name; but I’m a female photographer (Alexandra for long). My mother started calling me Alex since I was a little girl and the short version stuck.
I am a shy person, I don’t talk a lot and I best express myself through photography. I discovered my love for beautiful imagery when I was 18, at my now husband’s insistence. I never knew I had it, until he pushed me into it and I’m so grateful that he did. I named my business ‘Symphony of Light’ because everything revolves around the presence or lack of light. Photography is nothing without it. I’m ‘cursed’ to forever be in search for the perfect light.
Where are you based?
I’m born and bred in Transylvania, Romania, a beautiful little country in Europe.
Do you travel for weddings?
I sure do! I love discovering new places through my lens. I live in a beautiful little town with the airport only 30 min away, so it’s really easy for me to travel.
How would you describe your style?
I think the best way to describe my style would be honest, intentional with a focus on the aesthetic. I love noticing moments unfold in front of me and waiting for the shot. I don’t force anything, my approach is purely documentary with an editorial flare. I’m all for no clichés, no perfection and for the candid, just life itself. I specialise in making beautiful imagery from the mundane, be it shadow play on the warm concrete, the way he strokes your hair, children playing in the grass, leaves falling from the branches in autumn.
Romanticising life is my middle name I would say. I am a 90’ kid, a hopelessly nostalgic romantic. I aim to create photographs that surprise and evoke memories of how you truly felt in those moments. I want you to ‘remember how it felt’.
What inspires you?
Old cinema, especially Italian and French movies, waves crashing on cliffs, vintage cars, couples in love, music, Renaissance, Expressionism, Impressionism, art, misty mornings, the way sunset light hits dust in the air, dewy grass in the morning light, mannerisms and habits of day to day life and vintage fashion magazines.
How would you describe your working style?
The thing I noticed lately is that guests at weddings often ask me how long I have been friends with the couple for. Yes, I really like to get close and familiar with each of my couples. I think the most important thing in documenting your day is pure human connection. I’m an empathetic introvert and my approach is quiet, yet comfortable, focusing on crafting meaningful images through a mix of intimate, honest and experimental moments. Think of me as the observer, the silent art director capturing your essence. Your wedding day shouldn’t be about the photos, the photos should be about the wedding day.
Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?
I’m happy to say that I shoot both film and digital. I specialize in 35mm and medium format film and I think that the nostalgic essence is best preserved on film.
Do you have custom packages according to individual needs?
Of course! I would gladly tailor something to fit anyone’s needs. I offer 3 base packages and we can go from there.
What is a favourite product or service that you offer and why?
I’m all about people and human interaction so one of my favorite things I offer is consult calls. I really like to get to know my couples; usually we have a lot of things in common and we have a lot to chat about. Prior to the wedding day, I offer 2-3 consultation calls where we get to know each other, we brainstorm ideas about your wedding, make mood boards and I offer suggestions and support with anything you need, not just photography. We carefully craft the wedding timeline to fit you, I like to listen to you and your needs for the day, so I can capture your wedding in the most honest and intentional way.
Who is your dream client?
My dream couple is one who is crazy in love, down to earth and easy going . They are people who value intentional experiences, elevated designs, fashion, art and want an out of the box and non-traditional wedding. They set the trends, rather than follow them.
What is your advice to couples getting married?
You’ve waited, planned and invested so much energy into this so now it’s the time to be a bit selfish and reap the rewards. Be yourselves and let it show on your wedding day, be it through the beautiful details, or simply through your energy. Your wedding day should reflect who you really are as a couple, should be honest and true to yourselves. On the day, time just flies by, so enjoy each and every minute to the fullest and take it all in. Make sure you have a moment just the two of you, no cameras, no guests. 5 minutes is all it takes just to make that core memory.
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