Lecco, Italy Wedding Photographer Riccardo Bestetti | ISPWP Spotlight Interview

Riccardo Bestetti Bio:
Riccardo Bestetti was born in Milano in 1961. After having attended a university photography course in the 80’s and graduating in Advertising and Industrial Photography at the Institute of European Design in Milan, he started his professional photography career in many studios in Milan. In 1983 he embarked in the entrepreneurial activity of opening a studio in Lecco where he is still working today.

After a few years he opened a shop close to the original studio to provide photographic equipment, accessories, albums and frames. His business now provides a variety of photographic services such as passport photos, photographic retouching and restoration, made on location, as well as weddings, sports, and events photos.

In 1990 it was recognized as one of the first express development and printing laboratory in the city. Recently he entered the Regenera group, the leading company in ink-jet, toner, laser and tape cartridges, further expanding the services provided to his customers.

Thanks to his seriousness and professionalism Studio Fotografico Bestetti has grown to become the main spot in the city for lovers of photography.

Supported by strong partners and collaborators he has been able to renew himself and take advantage of new technologies. Now with the inauguration of the web site and online digital photo print services, once again he is at the top of his field.

RICCARDO BESTETTI awards:
Obtains the score of 5th professional level in the “Best of Italy” wedding photographers www.fotocerimonia.com
Selected for the American Association ISPWP
Selected from the American Association WPJA
1 classified in the national contest of ANFM 2008 C3
2 classified in the national contest of ANFM 2008 C2
3 classified in the national contest of ANFM 2008 C2
Images published in national professional magazine in “Wedding Special” 2008
Finalist in the international competition “Orvieto Fotografia Photography Awards” 2008
Creative quality in professional photography: marked and published author in the International Competition 2008
Works exhibited in the gallery “Tutti i Colori del Bianco” 2008-2009
Finalist in the international competition “Orvieto Fotografia Photography Awards” 2009
Images published in national professional magazine in “Wedding Special” 2009
2 classified in the national contest Fotonotiziario-Facebook 2009
Works exhibited in the Photoshow 2009
1 classified in the national contest of ANFM 2009
3 classified in the national contest of ANFM 2009
Creative quality in professional photography: published author in International Competition 2009

How did you get your start and why did you chose wedding photography as a career?

I began my career as an advertising photographer but soon I got into social photography that appealed to me as I had the opportunity to grasp people’s true emotions and being in close relationship with them.

How has your extensive experience in wedding photography helped you in difficult circumstances on a wedding day?

Certainly a wedding may hide unexpected events, but, as an experienced wedding photographer, I do my best to anticipate and manage them. I’ve learned not to be taken aback, I react to a negative situation and turn it into a favorable one.

What are some of your favorite local venues?

I live in Italy, a romantic and fascinating country, and I have the opportunity to work in venues like Venice, Florence, Lake Como, Lake Garda and the Amalfi Coast. Those are my favorite locations, all of them are simply wonderful.

What advice would you give a bride who is looking for a wedding photographer?

I realize that many people choose their photographer by basing their decision on the quantity of materials (prints/albums/etc.) included in the package or based solely on cost alone, as if shots could be weighed or counted. It would be nice it were more common for brides to choose a photographer on the basis of how her emotions were stirred by the professional photographer’s shots. I am absolutely sure that’s the only way not to be disappointed when you get to finally see your wedding album.

What kinds of weddings do you love to photograph?

I love working with people who have different costumes, religions and culture. Those are really the most satisfying shots! Any kind of ceremonies attracts me. In particular I like when a mutual understanding is set between me and the brides, I love it!

What are your top tips for brides to help them get great photos on their wedding day?

My best tips for brides: “Be happy and spontaneous!”

How important is it to hire an experienced wedding photographer?

The moment we decide it’s important to have a wedding photographic keepsake we should not even consider a different choice than hiring an experienced wedding photographer.

How would you describe your style of photography?

I love reporting the event in a journalistic way, documenting what is happening and paying attention to the most touching and relevant moments. Not as the director, but as a spectator when shooting, thus I give the brides photographs that will paint her wedding day through emotions and events.

What do you offer to clients that is unique?

Well, it’s easy, I offer myself, one way or another, I am unique.

Do you offer albums? If so, describe the albums you offer and why you think it’s important to provide albums.

Yes, we offer albums suitably made by a Tuscan craftsman who scrupulously respects the old tanning and leather cutting craftsmanship. A first-class ‘container’ makes the ‘contents’ more precious.

How would you describe the current state of the wedding photography industry? Where do you think wedding photography is headed in the years to come?

In Italy a lack of professionalism has invaded the wedding photography industry, some photographers consider weddings only as a business opportunity and present themselves without the specific required skills. That behavior ruins the reputation of reliable skilled professionals. I think providing truly professional service and products is rewarding in the long term.