Always fascinated by photography, it wasn’t until Michigan Behn was asked to help her photographer sister-in-law at a wedding that her love for bridal photographry was unveiled.
Dreamy and romantic, Michigan’s documentary-style bridal photography is incredibly popular – both locally and internationally – and it is easy to see why. We get to know the artist behind the lens…
Tell us about your background and when and how you discovered your passion for photography.
I am one of four siblings – three girls and a boy (the apple of all of our eyes). When I think of my childhood, I think of family. On weekends we were surrounded by grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins, and much of our childhood was spent in our big garden and in the swimming pool. I was always creative and had an interest in photography from a young age, but I decided to study fashion at Inscape Design College. When my (now) sister-in-law, Bron Veale, asked me to assist her at a wedding, it turned into a journey of mentoring me through shooting, editing and business skills. She shared her years of experience and wisdom and I couldn’t be more grateful. I decided to spread my wings, focus wholeheartedly on photography and start my own business in 2016.
Why the focus on bridal photography?
I always say I ‘fell into it’, but I truly believe it was just meant to be. It’s incredible working in that environment and be a part of a day filled with so much love and joy. It’s overwhelming and truly an honour to capture it.
Tell us about your style of wedding photography.
I’m told my style is ‘editorial’ and ‘documentary’. I love capturing what unfolds in front of me as naturally as possible, while bringing personality and substance out of intimate moments. I’ve always been a sucker for romance and I think my photographs have an old-school sense of romance about them. While people are my focus, I also love capturing the beauty and light around me.
What is the most important aspect for you as photographer on someone’s wedding day?
I try to ensure the bride and groom stay present, soaking in the day and each other. I am a calming voice (and a mood-lightener) if needed. I am there for them.
What has changed about weddings and what couples want from their photographs?
These days couples are often influenced by social media and platforms such as Pinterest, and can get caught up in what is ‘expected’ of them and how they would like themselves to look … especially brides. Having been a bride myself recently, I had to remind myself to focus on the essence of the day and how I wanted things to feel rather than look. I have seen a shift lately though. Couples opt for more intimate and authentic weddings. I can’t speak for other photographers, but the more ‘posed’ shots are taking a back seat, making way for more of the beautiful, raw moments and natural, unforgettable, imperfect and genuine imagery.
What is your favourite moment at a wedding?
I don’t have a favourite moment … but more a favourite kind of moment: a moment that wholeheartedly captures the couple. It could be a gaze after they’ve kissed, or a sneaky show of love on the dance floor – that’s what I’m there for. I love ceremony exit shots though … pure bliss!
What are your do’s and don’ts for couples?
Don’t sweat the small stuff, be too strict with timing or let any family members affect your decisions! Put your and your partner’s wants and needs first, enjoy the build-up (it only happens once and then boom, it’s your wedding day … and boom, it’s over!), and make sure you spend time together and take breaks throughout the day to reflect and take in all the love. One more thing I recommend: make sure there is enough of a gap between the ceremony and bridal shoots for couples to enjoy canapés and time with their guests.
Your favourite place to shoot? And your dream shoot destination?
That’s a tough one! I love a home wedding – they are always so sentimental. I also love bush weddings because there’s something so grounded about them. All our local venues are unique in their own way, though. I would love to shoot in Mallorca and more in Europe. I am Croatian, so I would love to shoot there too one day.
Details: www.michiganbehn.com, @michiganbehnphotography
Photographs by: Matt Kay, @the_woods_photography
