READING TIME: 3 min 59 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/03/2024
UPDATED: 10/03/2024
Alexandra Bertels, the visionary behind Felix Boniface, began her love affair with photography in a way that many can relate to—through family. "I fell in love with my fathers photographs. I was the kid sitting on the ground in the living room, flipping through family albums," she fondly recalls. It was more than just a pastime for her—it became the catalyst for a lifelong passion. " I’m a dreamer," Alexandra shares, "Nature, beauty, music, art and architecture excite me."
As a teenager, she carried a disposable camera everywhere, capturing the fleeting beauty of everyday life. Her interest in art naturally led her to study Art History at university, but the world of photography beckoned. "The call to further develop my passion became irresistible," Alexandra explains. From that point forward, her career evolved into a multi-faceted journey through photography, education, and curation, all of which enrich her approach at Felix Boniface today.
At the heart of Felix Boniface is Alexandra’s unique blend of styles that she describes as "organic yet cinematic." Her approach transcends the typical documentary style by integrating cinematic elements that lend her work a sense of timeless elegance. "What I strive to offer my clients are images that are not only visually appealing but also rich in meaning and emotion," she says. Every wedding is a story waiting to be told through her lens, and she uses her intuitive eye to find those moments that resonate emotionally.
Her style is known for effortlessly elegant candid shots—vibrant, alive, and filled with genuine emotion. But Alexandra’s real talent shines in capturing those quieter moments, the ones filled with unspoken emotions. "Effortlessly elegant and vibrant candid shots, balanced out with poetic moments of stillness," she reveals. The magic of Felix Boniface lies in Alexandra’s ability to let moments unfold naturally without forcing the shot. "I never plan out exact shots," she explains. "My clients know I make my best work when they are having the best time and I only give guidance during portrait sessions and group shots."
At Felix Boniface, Alexandra’s approach to her toolkit is minimalist yet powerful. She relies on just one camera body and two lenses—a 24-70mm and a 50mm 1.2—to work her magic. She recently added a drone to her collection, which she uses to capture breathtaking aerial perspectives that give her albums an added layer of drama and scope.
Her post-processing at Felix Boniface is equally thoughtful. "Culling is key," she says, referring to the careful selection process that defines her editing workflow. Once she has chosen the best images, she makes subtle adjustments to lighting, contrast, and color to ensure that the final collection feels cohesive and polished. "Basic tweaks in lightning, contrast and color for a fine vibe," she adds.
For Alexandra, photography at Felix Boniface is about more than just capturing moments—it’s about living an adventure. "It is one big adventure full of surprises and I am enjoying the ride," she says, reflecting on the countless weddings she’s been a part of. Meeting new people, exploring stunning locations, and being invited into intimate, meaningful moments is what keeps her passion alive. "My days are filled with beauty and I never stop learning," she says with genuine excitement. Every wedding is unique, and that’s what makes it so thrilling for Alexandra. Her ability to stay present in the moment and let the day unfold naturally is part of what makes Felix Boniface so highly regarded among couples.
Alexandra believes that successful photography hinges on strong collaboration between the photographer and the couple. "It's so important to be on the same level with your photographer," she emphasizes. At Felix Boniface, she goes to great lengths to ensure that her clients feel understood and confident in her approach. Before the wedding, Alexandra schedules calls to discuss the couple’s vision. "I listen and take notes," she says. "I want to know what and who is important to them." She also sends out a detailed questionnaire to cover practical details like timelines and locations, allowing her to anticipate key moments.
Alexandra takes a selective approach to her work at Felix Boniface, limiting the number of weddings she photographs each year to ensure a personalized experience for every couple. She limits her self to 15-20 weddings per year. This approach allows her to fully immerse herself in each couple’s story and capture their day with the attention it deserves.
At Felix Boniface, Alexandra’s love for travel is a key part of her brand, and Italy holds a special place in her heart. "Italy will always make my heart beat faster," she says with a fond smile. Whether it’s the stunning landscapes, rich history, or romantic cityscapes, Italy provides the perfect backdrop for her cinematic style of photography.
"When mountains, epic landscapes, boats or buzzing cities are involved, i'm in," she says enthusiastically. Her love for adventure and the thrill of discovering new places makes her the ideal photographer for couples seeking destination weddings, especially those with a sense of grandeur and romance that Italy so effortlessly provides.
When asked for her advice to couples preparing for their big day, Alexandra’s response is simple yet profound: "Make sure you feel good in your outfit, comfortable in your skin and in peace with the people around you." At Felix Boniface, she believes that the best photographs come from couples who are relaxed and enjoying the moment.
This philosophy underscores Alexandra’s entire approach to wedding photography at Felix Boniface. By creating a comfortable, joyful atmosphere, she ensures that her couples can be themselves, resulting in images that feel authentic and full of life.
With her minimalist approach to equipment, a deep love for travel, and an unparalleled ability to capture authentic moments, Felix Boniface offers couples a truly unforgettable wedding photography experience. For those seeking more than just pictures, Alexandra delivers memories that will be cherished forever.
