READING TIME: 4 min 37 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/23/2024
UPDATED: 11/06/2024
Wedding photography is an art form that not only preserves memories but also tells stories that last a lifetime. Few do this better than Teodora Simon, a talented photographer whose career has taken her from Vienna to the most breathtaking destinations across the globe. Teodora’s ability to connect with her clients and document their love stories has earned her a special place in the world of high-end and destination wedding photography. In this interview, we delve into her journey, her passion for photography, and what drives her to continue capturing the most cherished moments in people’s lives.
Teodora’s journey into wedding photography was anything but conventional. What began as a side project while working in PR and event management soon became her life’s calling.
“I started wedding photography over 12 years ago as a side job. Quitting my PR and event management job, I found myself soon working as a full-time wedding photographer, and focusing from the beginning on international and high-end clients."
Her transition from the corporate world to full-time photography wasn’t just about following a passion—it was about finding her true calling. Teodora reflects on this change fondly:
“I could not imagine doing anything else. Photography is my passion, but I’m more passionate about getting to know people, listening to their background stories, and seeing them become a family. Even after 12 years, I’m still crying at weddings.”
The path to becoming a successful photographer often involves years of dedication, learning, and growth. For Teodora, this was no different. Throughout her career, she has honed her craft and built a clientele that reflects her artistic vision.
“It took me years to have the clientele I always dreamed of and to be able to travel with my job.”
Far from feeling burnt out after more than a decade in the business, Teodora finds joy in each wedding she photographs.
“My brides ask me sometimes—aren’t you burned out, and do you still enjoy weddings? I do, and I do even more by achieving my dreams and meeting wonderful people.”
Teodora’s style of photography has undergone significant transformation over the years. Initially drawn to natural light and fine art photography, she soon felt the need for greater creative freedom.
“I started with natural light and fine art photography, shot on film for a while, but a few years ago I found it a bit limited. I changed my style a bit now to be more like editorial/documentary—which I feel gives me bigger freedom, and I’m more passionate now than ever.”
Her work strikes a balance between documenting authentic emotions and creating visually stunning images, a combination that resonates with both her high-end clients and those seeking timeless, elegant photography.
“I love documenting and capturing emotions, but focusing on the beautiful images at the same time. I love simple and clean photography.”
As any photographer will tell you, having the right equipment is essential. Teodora’s go-to choice for capturing her iconic images is Nikon.
“I’m Nikon and have always been. I use Nikon Z8 and Z6 cameras, and a variety of Z lenses.”
This setup gives her the versatility she needs to capture everything from intimate portraits to grand, sweeping scenes at destination weddings.
Teodora’s approach to post-production is refreshingly minimal, ensuring her images maintain their authenticity.
“I do very basic post-production. I love to keep my images clean and true to color. I’m discovering the beauty of flash photography again, and I enjoy this journey so much.”
Her focus on clean and simple imagery allows the emotions of the day to shine through, unburdened by heavy editing or overly stylized effects.
One of Teodora’s strengths as a wedding photographer is her ability to connect with her clients, a relationship that often begins long before the wedding day.
“I love to get to know my clients prior to the wedding and would love to know their expectations.”
For Teodora, this connection is essential to delivering the kind of photography her clients dream of. Whether through pre-wedding consultations or reviewing mood boards, she takes the time to understand their vision and tailor her approach accordingly.
“Sometimes clients cannot really describe what type of images they expect from me, and I’m happy to see their mood board and vision prior.”
Her ability to listen and adapt is a testament to her client-first philosophy.
“I always try to adapt to their wishes—if somebody doesn’t want a long portrait session, I fully respect it, and I never put my own artistic vision before the client’s needs.”
Travel is a significant part of Teodora’s work, and she thrives on the opportunity to photograph weddings in different parts of the world. Her passion for travel, coupled with her love of exploring different cultures, has led her to photograph a variety of multicultural weddings.
“I shoot a lot of multicultural weddings. The freedom, the respect we get at every wedding, being connected to my brides from the beginning since their first email—I love it.”
Her favorite destinations? Italy, Greece, and Switzerland. Each offers its unique charm, and Teodora relishes the chance to bring her distinctive style to these beautiful locations.
Teodora prides herself on offering flexibility to her clients, ensuring that their wedding photography experience is as personal as possible.
This personalized approach allows her to cater to her clients’ specific needs, whether they’re planning a small, intimate wedding or a grand destination celebration.
When it comes to preparing for a photo shoot, Teodora encourages collaboration with her clients. For her, mood boards are an excellent way to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
“Some photographers disagree with this, but I love to see mood boards from the clients—to see what type of images they like. More natural light posed photography? More candids? Flashy modern editorial? I’m happy to plan this together and explain what works well at which locations.”
As Teodora reflects on her career so far, it’s clear that her love for photography—and for the people she photographs—continues to grow with each wedding. Her ability to adapt and evolve her style, combined with her dedication to connecting with her clients, ensures that her work remains both timeless and unique.
“I love to describe myself as a guest or friend with a camera in hand. I love to attend the rehearsals and get to know most of the people before the wedding day.”
Teodora Simon’s journey as a photographer is one of passion, dedication, and constant evolution. Whether you’re planning a wedding in her hometown of Vienna or a destination celebration in one of her favorite countries, Teodora’s talent and approach will make your special day one to remember forever.
