READING TIME: 4 min 25 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/24/2025
UPDATED: 10/24/2025
Before stepping behind the camera, Phan Tien lived a life steeped in science. “I earned a PhD in Computer Science and worked as a research engineer in Paris — a background that has nothing to do with photography except the creativity in both worlds,” he shares. Yet even amid algorithms and research papers, a different kind of vision was forming — one that sought to translate emotion, movement, and light into timeless art.
Travel had always been his heartbeat. “Traveling and documenting stories are always my passion,” he says. That desire to explore eventually led him to weddings — moments filled with life, laughter, and the poetry of human connection. Since his first wedding in 2012, he’s photographed celebrations across continents.
from Paris to Lake Como, from Tuscany to Vietnam.
For more than a decade, Phan has captured love stories that transcend geography. “From 2012 my first wedding shot, so it's 14 years,” he reflects. His work has evolved with every story, every landscape, every face. What remains constant is his intent — to create something authentic, emotional, and beautifully composed.
“I hope my work blends editorial artistry with documentary authenticity,” he explains. His inspiration comes from cinema and fine art — “I'm a fan of Paolo Sorrentino films and Slim Aarons photographs.” Those influences are clear in his imagery: cinematic light, elegant compositions, and a refined sense of storytelling that feels both spontaneous and deliberate.
In describing his style, Phan sees photography as a delicate balance between observation and emotion. “I want to create timeless imagery and cinematic films that reflect both the beauty of the setting and the intimacy of each couple’s story,” he says. Each frame, for him, is a dialogue between place and people — where architecture, atmosphere, and affection come together in harmony.
His tools of choice are designed to keep the process seamless and instinctive. “I have tried all brands and now stay with Canon, specifically R6 Mark II and all their lenses.” The reliability of his equipment allows him to focus on the subtleties — the fleeting expressions, the gestures, the way light wraps around a moment.
Phan approaches post-production as a continuation of storytelling. “From cropping, color grading and locally retouching for portraits,” he explains, “the most important step in my editing work is curating the images that tell back the stories.” Every decision, from tone to sequence, is intentional — not to perfect the image, but to preserve the emotion within it.
What draws Phan most to photography is the human connection it fosters. “What I enjoy most about being a photographer is the connection I get to build with each couple,” he says warmly. “My camera is my passport — it helps me travel into each couple’s world, to be invited into such intimate, meaningful moments.”
That intimacy fuels his creativity. “I love being there not only to document, but to truly feel the emotions of the day and translate them into photographs that couples can relive for a lifetime.” For him, photography isn’t just about memory — it’s about empathy. “The most rewarding part is knowing that years from now, my images will still carry the laughter, the tears, and the beauty of that day.”
When working with couples, Phan emphasizes listening and teamwork. “Every wedding day is unique,” he says. “I love to spend time to hear from their vision, their personalities, and the moments that matter most to them.” He believes great photography comes from genuine collaboration.
“Before the wedding day, I also believe in the importance of collaboration: working closely with planners, stylists, and other vendors ensures that everything aligns and the couple can simply enjoy the experience.” His secret ingredient? Trust. “When there is trust, communication, and teamwork, authentic emotions naturally shine through — and my role is to capture those moments with creativity and care.”
Phan’s approach to business mirrors his artistry — personalized, flexible, and deeply human. “Absolutely, every story, every couple are different and I will make the perfect package for them,” he says. For him, photography isn’t a formula; it’s a dialogue shaped around each couple’s vision and journey.
When asked for advice for couples preparing for their wedding day, his answer is refreshingly simple. “My biggest tip is to talk and find and trust the team you’ve chosen,” he shares. “When couples feel at ease with their photographer and vendors, the experience becomes so much more natural and enjoyable.”
He adds: “Preparation is important, of course, but it doesn’t need to be about perfect poses or rehearsed moments. What truly makes photographs beautiful is authenticity.” His encouragement to couples? “Simply be present with each other, enjoy the celebration, and let us take care of the rest. The more you relax and focus on your loved ones, the more your photos will reflect the real joy and emotions of the day.”
A true citizen of the world, Phan has photographed weddings in more than twenty countries. “Yes,” he smiles, “I have photographed wedding in more than 20 countries and I can't decide on this. But I have been just based in French Riviera for 4 years and it still amazes me every day.”
The light of the Riviera continues to inspire him — its blend of elegance, color, and calm. It’s easy to see why his work radiates a Mediterranean warmth even when he’s shooting halfway across the world.
As the night deepens and music fills the air, Phan is often right there with his camera — and his heart — in the center of the celebration. “I love wedding party,” he says with a grin.
I have so much fun dancing and shooting during that time.
It’s in those unscripted moments — the laughter, the movement, the pure joy — that his storytelling feels most alive. “Those are the frames that remind me why I do this,” he adds, “because love, in all its forms, deserves to be celebrated.”
From his early life in science to the artistry of storytelling through the lens, Phan Tien has built a career defined by curiosity, emotion, and authenticity. His photography captures not just how weddings look — but how they feel. Whether under the golden light of the French Riviera or amidst the vibrant colors of Vietnam, his work continues to remind us that beauty lives in every fleeting moment, waiting for someone with heart and vision to capture it.
