ISPWP Member Spotlight - Linda Berretty

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

I fell in love with wedding photography after getting married myself. But I still was a biomedical scientist then and photography was just a hobby. Due to circumstances I once shot a wedding and it turned out to be a great success. My goal is to capture that magical feeling of a wedding day with all it's intense emotions and lovely details, without directing or interfering these precious moments. No tricks, fixed poses or props; every wedding-shoot tells it's unique story.  ​

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

No matter what the weather, venue or circumstances: my photographic toolbox is filled with techniques that make every situation work for the best and let creativity flow. There is no such thing as ‘bad weather’  (rain gives awesome reflections) , no boring venues (it’s all about seeing opportunities) or non-photogenic people (trust me).

What are some of your favorite local venues?

I love venues that have a characteristic styling and the possibility to have the ceremony outside. In my hometown Geldrop there is De Kasteelhoeve , a lovely venue with a castle and surrounding park. In Haren  you have Klooster Bethlehem. An old monasterie with a beautiful chapel. Near Maastricht I have been to Buitenplaats Vaeshartelt, a chateau that makes you believe you are in the southern of France. Abroad I love the beach of Sicily and the town of Lucca. Belgium has some really nice places as well.

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

Make sure you feel comfortable with your photographer. To tell your wedding story we have to come close, really close so there has to be a good vibe!

What's your favorite part of the wedding day to photograph?

First looks: dad seeing the bride and the bride & groom first look, these are such an intense moments. 

Preparations, so much going on!

Kids being kids during a ceremony.

What kinds of weddings do you love to photograph?

Weddings that are about the true meaning of that day: getting married and celebrating your love with your loved ones. Not about creating content for Instagram, Pinterest or Facebook. Most of the time these weddings have a loose schedule, people enjoy the moment, dare to laugh and cry and kids can just play around. 

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

Have the photoshoot after the ceremony. Something magical happens when you have said YES and I can see that extra sparkles in your eyes.

How important is it to hire an experienced wedding photographer?

Your photo’s are a precious memory and only an experienced wedding photographer can handle all kind of circumstances. We are trained to anticipate and be there to capture the moments you want to remember and show future generations.

What do you find is the biggest challenge in wedding photography?

Uncle Bob and a “Plugged Wedding”: having everyone hidden behind an Ipad or Iphone taking pictures. They totally forget to actually being part of that special occasion they were invited for.

Do you do "destination weddings?" If so, what are your favorite destinations?

Italy! But my dream is to shoot a wedding in New Zealand, my favourite country in the world.

What do you do for fun when you're not shooting weddings?

Travel, play in the woods with my two boys, enjoying the great food my husband cooks for me and appreciating a good wine or rum with friends.

How would you describe your style of photography?

Timeless, documentary storytelling photography.

What do you offer to clients that is unique? What is your Unique Selling Proposition?

I am a really nice person. Hahaha. Apart from being a professional photographer, my biggest talent is that people tend to feel themselves at ease with me. This way I can easily mingle with family and friends during a wedding day and can come really close without spoiling the moment.

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

Yes, and you want your photo’s printed in the best way possible. For yourselves, but also for your future generations. Being a designer I make a customized wedding album design with elements of your wedding day (like invitation, fonts etc). Everything has to be right: chronology, color, direction and moment. The albums are printed on beautiful photo paper that lasts for generations.

What (or who) inspires you? 

Nature inspires me most: light, colors, skies, landscapes and so on. It’s keeps my photographic eye alert. Apart from that there are two great photographers who gave me inspiring insights during my last workshop : Erika & Lanny Mann.

What's the best photography-related advice you've been given?

“Don’t change what your doing”. I was insecure about being invisible and not taking the lead to force shooting better compositions. Lanny & Erika saw my lack of presence in a photo as a strength: the moment is real.

What would you say was the biggest reason for your success?

Telling the real story of a wedding with al l it’s intense emotions, funny moments and beautiful details. Integrity and being real is very important to me. I don’t play marketing psychology games, but really become close to the bride & groom and their family. A lot of them are therefore still personal friends.

What future plans do you have for your business for the next year?

Lifting my photography to the next level and going more international.