Through the Lens with Vangelis Beltzenitis: On Style, Approach, and Travels

Vangelis Beltzenitis is a luminary in wedding photography in Como, Italy. "My love for photography has been taking over from a very young age," Vangelis shares, reflecting on how his journey began. It was at the young age of nine when he first held a camera, a moment that ignited a lifelong passion. This passion was not just a fleeting interest; it became his mode of expression, especially during his formative years. "As I was growing older, the way to express myself was through a Nikon FM2 camera, a 50mm lens, and countless rolls of Tri-X 400 Black and white film," he recalls. This was a craft that he meticulously honed, spending countless hours in the darkroom, processing his own films.

His dedication didn't go unnoticed, as he was awarded a scholarship by the Greek Ministry of Culture to study photography, turning his passion into a professional pursuit. With over 20 years in the field, Vangelis has developed a rich and diverse portfolio that speaks volumes of his experience and expertise.

The Artistic Blueprint

When asked about his photography style, Vangelis's response reflects a deep understanding of his art. "Creative Documentary & Editorial Wedding Photography," he explains. This style is a testament to his ability to capture the essence of each moment, blending spontaneity with artistic flair.

The choice of his tools is just as important as his style. He opts for the Canon EOS R5, a camera known for its versatility and high-quality output, aligning perfectly with his creative vision. In the realm of post-processing, Vangelis emphasizes the importance of authenticity. "I use Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. Natural colors with minimal manipulation to only enhance and not alter them," he elaborates. This approach underscores his commitment to capturing true-to-life images that resonate with the emotions of the day.

The Wedding Journey

Delving deeper into his profession, Vangelis expresses a profound love for the challenges and diversity inherent in wedding photography. "I love the challenges of wedding photography and the fact that it is a constant interplay between other photography genres, such as documentary, portrait, editorial, etc.," he notes. He emphasizes the importance of mastering these different styles and thriving under the pressure of capturing fleeting moments.

His process of working with clients is marked by meticulous planning and communication. "Thorough communication via emails and video calls before the wedding to discuss the couple's vision and needs," Vangelis states. He also provides a comprehensive Wedding Guide ebook, drawing from years of experience to offer valuable insights and suggestions. This guide, coupled with his hands-on approach on the wedding day, ensures that the couple feels at ease, leading to more natural and authentic photographs.

Global Visions and Practical Wisdom

Vangelis is not just confined to local weddings. His expertise extends to destination weddings, with a particular fondness for Italy, France, and Thailand. His global exposure adds a distinctive element to his work, capturing diverse traditions and landscapes. Flexibility is key in his service, as he is open to creating custom packages to suit specific needs.

His Wedding Guide ebook is packed with tips and recommendations, ensuring clients are well-prepared for their big day. "We encourage our clients to find inspiration on social media, but don’t copy," he advises, emphasizing the importance of personalization in wedding photography.