Bobbi Brinkman of Bobbi Brinkman Photography

Coffee Talk with Bobbi Brinkman of Bobbi Brinkman Photography

WC: How did you get started in photography?

BB: It isn't much of a stretch to say that I have always had a camera in my hand. My first camera was an old Polaroid — the kind that you opened accordion style. There are family pictures of me holding this camera to my face. Like many other photographers, I was never in family photos as I was the one documenting these milestones. Actually, come to think of it, that remains true today! I've come a long way from that first Polaroid but have always had the passion to create "Images from the Heart..."

WC: What inspired you to get into the field of wedding photography?

BB: I love being able to capture a memory and tell a story with images, and wedding photography was a natural evolution in my now 26-year career. My diverse client base started referring me from the beginning of my career and that hasn't changed. I photographed my first wedding when I was 16 years old and recently photographed their daughter's wedding! It is an extraordinary privilege and honor to be capturing images for another generation.

WC: What kind of photographic style are you known for?

BB: Emotional Candids. People often comment that there is so much "emotion and life" in my photographs. One of the first questions we get from brides is whether we shoot in photojournalistic style. I think the term "photojournalistic" is overused in our profession. Being chosen to capture one of the most important days in anyone's life should include storytelling images (candid) as they unfold, along with the proper mix of traditional family photos. The entire wedding experience is full of many emotions. I feel that it is our job to capture all aspects and emotions without falling into a category. It's not uncommon for me to joke with my couples and tell them that if someone slips and takes a fall, I'm going to shoot that photo! Last year we had a string of weddings where the wedding party was dropping like flies at the altar. You can imagine how these images worked in designing wedding albums that told the story with passion and humor. By the way — no one was hurt in the photographing of these events!

WC: Do you photograph in black-and-white, color, or both? Out of the two, which one is your favorite?

BB: We shoot in both. While black and white is one of my true loves, there are certain times of the year and locations where color is extraordinary and should predominate in wedding photos. Theoretically, a wedding really is a black and white event. Most brides wear white and grooms wear black. The only hint of color comes from flowers or bridesmaid dresses, etc. There is definitely a place for both black and white and color in almost every wedding. When it complements a wedding, we also use sepia and hand coloring.

WC: What advice do you offer to couples searching for a wedding photographer?

BB: PERSONALITY! Find a photographer that you get along with, and can enjoy spending the balance of your wedding day with. Take a look at a photographer's portfolio/website and when you find one whose work moves you, MEET THEM. If you can't spent ten minutes in a room with that individual, your images will definitely be affected. We always say that when you look at images on a website, on that cold computer screen, that those images that jump out and stir your heart — that reaction should be "that's my photographer". When you look at the photographs from someone else's wedding and they move you, then you should be extremely happy in knowing that this particular photographer will do an exceptional job capturing your wedding day. My other advice would be not to let money be a decisive factor in ruling out a photographer. When you meet with photographers, carefully weigh personality, style, and experience along with cost. Many of us who have been around for a long time can offer you a wealth of knowledge and often money-saving tips as we work with the best vendors. Keep an open dialog as you discuss your wedding photography.

WC: In your opinion, while planning their wedding, what can the couple do to help maximize the value of the photographer at the wedding?

BB: Time Management! Be specific with your vision! A professional photographer should be able to actively listen to your ideas about your wedding day and help formulate a plan for photography that captures your day with respect to value. For example, all-day coverage sounds absolutely great — but, do you really need three hours of hair salon photos and photography until the last person leaves your reception? Honest discussion with your photographer will help you determine the appropriate amount of time needed for your wedding photography. Those of us who do this every weekend can offer you many ways to make your day less stressful.

WC: Do you photograph weddings outside of St. Louis?

BB: Yes! We are extremely lucky that many of our wonderful local brides have bridesmaids and even groomsmen from around the country. We have been blessed to photograph many of their weddings outside St. Louis. We especially love our winter weddings in Florida! Who wouldn't love to trade in the cold weather for sunny warmth and barefoot photos on the beach?

Read other interviews at the Club Cafe.