READING TIME: 3 min 6 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 08/26/2024
UPDATED: 08/29/2024
Natalie Keeton has devoted the last 12 years to capturing love stories through her lens, fusing the principles of design with a documentary style that's both raw and editorial.
One day, without really thinking about it, she picks up a camera and starts taking photos. What began as a casual flirtation soon blossomed into an all-consuming passion. The parallels between architecture and photography start to come into focus. The same skills that make for an incredible architect make for a well-versed, dynamic photographer. Something clicks, and the idea that she almost lived her life doing literally anything else seems unthinkable.
Keeton's background as an architect is the foundation of her photographic philosophy. "Wedding photography is more like architecture and design than most people realize. The same concepts that make for a gorgeous structure—clean lines, intentional composition, appreciation of light and shadows—when applied effectively, make for a striking, unforgettable image," she says. Her architectural training allows her to spot creative opportunities, to find the perfect angles that capture not just fleeting moments, but the very structure of emotion itself.
"I’m able to spot opportunities for creative images and find the right angles and positions to capture them, without interrupting the natural narrative of the day," she explains. "Pair that with a keen eye for detail and an obsession with capturing the candid, “How did you even see that?” moments, and you have my personal photography approach and philosophy."
Keeton describes her style as a "documentary with an editorial edge." It's a paradoxical blend of unscripted reality and artistic vision. "My job is to understand your vision, seek creative opportunities, keep timelines intact, and artfully tell your story with wit, romance, and honesty," she says.
Her approach is simple yet profound: "Your job is to exist, exactly as you are (but don’t worry—I’ll be there to guide and direct you whenever you need it)." It's a liberating mindset that frees couples from the pressure of performing for the camera, allowing them to be fully present in their own love story.
Weddings are Keeton's signature offering, where your love story takes center stage. Her approach allows you to release all pressure and concern, offering instead the opportunity to be wholly present in the moment. “I’ve mastered the angles, the lighting, the shadows, and the quick attention to detail so that you’ll never miss a thing (and look striking as ever). My job is to understand your vision, seek creative opportunities, keep timelines intact, and artfully tell your story with wit, romance, and honesty. Your job is to exist, exactly as you are (but don’t worry—I’ll be there to guide and direct you whenever you need it),” the photographer says.
Keeton's commitment to quality over quantity is evident in her limited annual bookings, capping her number of weddings at fewer than 20 per year. This allows her to devote ample time and attention to each couple, with a typical wedding coverage spanning a luxurious 9 hours. Her starting price for a 10-hour package is $15,000, reflecting her investment in artistry and personalized service.
Keeton understands that every couple is unique, with their own specific needs and priorities. That's why she offers the flexibility to create custom packages, working closely with you to design a tailored experience that aligns with your vision and captures the elements that matter most to you.
When it comes to preparing for your big day, Natalie’s advice is refreshingly simple: "Stay true to who you are as a couple. Plan your day to maximize light but also your enjoyment. Photos are essential, but so are your memories. My style is photojournalistic, so you need to be fully engaged, lost in the moment, and have the time of your life for the best photos."
She encourages couples to identify their photographic priorities, whether it's capturing every intricate detail, candid moments, or something else entirely. "Figure out what type of photos are most important to you." And when the inevitable hiccups arise, her sage advice is to embrace the unpredictable: "Plan for the best, but embrace the worst. No wedding ever goes completely as planned. Roll with what you're given and be happy that you married the love of your life."
While San Miguel de Allende holds a special place in Keeton's heart, her wanderlust knows no bounds. She eagerly takes on destination weddings, capturing love stories against backdrops that span the globe, from sun-drenched plazas to rolling vineyards and everything in between.
