Greg Lappin of Greg Lappin Photography

Coffee Talk with Greg Lappin of Greg Lappin Photography

WC: How did you get started in photography?

GL: I really didn't start taking pictures until the 90's. Once I did, it felt very natural. I have relatives that are photographers and who work in the film industry. So, this line of work is in my DNA.

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

GL: It really just happened. One of my friends knew my passion for photography and she was getting married and asked if I could take pictures at her wedding. I did, it ended up being a lot of fun and my friend was very happy with the pictures I took. I found out that I really enjoyed capturing people being themselves in happy moments and then freezing this emotion in time. Taking pictures of people is a rhythm. Weddings are a rhythm.

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

GL: I have been told many times that my pictures have a European style of photography. If I could describe my work style, I would say it is photo journalistic art, a still documentary with a dash of fashion. My work is different but it has strong emotion.

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

GL: I photograph in both. Most of the time I take my pictures in color, and then I see what the client likes best. I can make a color photo black-and-white. I love to mix black-and-white and color in a photo and this technique has become very popular among my clients. I also really enjoy the bleached fashion type color pictures which bring out amazing texture especially on the bride.

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

GL: I think it is very important that a couple feel comfortable communicating with their photographer and that they have the confidence that they'll be able to capture all the special moments of the day. I visit the wedding and reception locations with my clients before the event date. Breaking the ice with your clients is what I feel makes great photography. A great way for a couple to see how their photographer captures them is to have him/her take their engagement picture. Almost all of my clients have me shoot their engagement photos which are usually on display at the reception.

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

GL: As the wedding date approaches, I work with my client in putting together a timeline of the pictures they want taken. I think it is also important to have a Plan B, especially with weddings that are outside or for couples who want pictures taken outside. The weather can be unpredictable. Also, I've found it helpful if each of the bride and groom designate a friend or relative to help find the people for specific pictures. That helps to keep things moving.

WC: Do you photograph weddings outside of Missouri?

GL: Yes. Chicago has become a great market for me as well.

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