READING TIME: 3 min 34 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/18/2024
UPDATED: 09/18/2024
Marni Wishart is not merely a photographer; she is a visual storyteller whose rich background as a mixed-media artist and art historian significantly colors her approach to photography. Her journey into the world of photography is rooted in a deeply personal desire to document the evolving story of her own family, which naturally expanded into capturing the pivotal moments of others’ lives. Here, we delve into the essence of Marni’s work, exploring her unique blend of artistic vision and heartfelt documentation.
Marni Wishart's transition from a visual artist and educator to a professional photographer is both fascinating and inspiring. She explains, "My background as a mixed-media visual artist, Art Historian, Museum Educator, and Art + Digital Media Educator informs my work now as a photographer - with an approach that is equal parts process- and people-oriented, rooted in the past, and ever-adapting." This foundation has not only shaped her technical skills but also her perspective on capturing images that tell a story.
Her professional photography began as a means to better document her growing family, which soon turned into a full-fledged career. "I began photographing professionally with portraiture in 2009 and photographed my first wedding in 2011," Wishart recalls. This transition highlights her natural progression from personal passion to professional expertise.
Describing her style, Marni says, "Natural, organic, and a little bit loose and interpretive. My clients tell me how much they appreciate looking and feeling like themselves both during our time together and in their images." Her approach is distinctly influenced by the imperfections of analog film photography, which she believes enhances the emotional impact of her images. "I love photographing intuitively and playfully to create imagery that is both artful and documentary," she adds.
This style is not just about capturing images but about creating an atmosphere of comfort and connection. Marni Wishart focuses on observing body language and fostering a space where her subjects can be themselves, which she finds crucial in portraying their true essence.
Wishart believes in thorough preparation and consultation before events, especially weddings. She offers advice on wardrobe and how to feel comfortable in front of the camera, emphasizing the importance of a good personality match between photographer and client. "Being photographed is such a personal - and oftentimes vulnerable - experience your photographer should feel like a trusted friend," she advises.
Wishart utilizes a diverse array of equipment to capture her signature style, ranging from medium format and 35mm film cameras to modern mirrorless digital gear. She even includes a "fun hobby point-and-shoot camera when the moment is a good fit." This versatility allows her to adapt to any situation and capture the best possible images under varying conditions.
When it comes to post-processing, Wishart maintains a minimalist approach, especially with her film images. "My film images have very little if any, post-process editing done once they return from my lab," she explains. Her digital images, however, are carefully edited to seamlessly integrate with a film aesthetic. "When you look at my images, I want you to see, and to feel, the moment rather than noticing the editing," Wishart emphasizes.
The most enjoyable aspect of photography for Marni is the incredible people she meets and the beautiful places she visits. "The amazing people I have been fortunate enough to meet and to know, and the beautiful places across the globe where this career has taken me," she shares, highlighting the enriching experiences her profession offers. Her appreciation for the world's beauty and the trust her clients place in her fuels her continued passion for photography.
Marni Wishart’s approach to working with clients is deeply collaborative and personalized. "Understanding my clients' goals and learning from our first conversations if we are a great fit to work together makes all the difference - also, a commitment to honoring what each moment brings allows me to be present and responsive rather than working from a rigid "shot list". I love getting to know my clients on a personal level," she states. This personalized approach ensures that each wedding or portrait session reflects the unique personalities and desires of her clients.
Marni Wishart prefers to handle 8 to 10 weddings per year, allowing her to maintain a high level of personalization and quality in her work. This careful selection of projects ensures that each couple receives her full attention and creative energy.
The duration of coverage she provides varies greatly, " anything from an afternoon for a courthouse civil ceremony up to a full week for destination weddings," according to Marni. Her pricing structure is also tailored, offering custom packages that reflect the specific needs and visions of her clients.
Marni Wishart is particularly passionate about destination weddings, with a preference for beach and desert locations. Greece holds a special place in her heart, and she is excited about expanding her wedding photography in Florida's coastal 30A region.
In conclusion, Marni Wishart’s photography transcends traditional boundaries, offering a window into the lives and emotions of her subjects through a lens that blends historical richness with contemporary sensitivity. Her work invites viewers to not just see but feel the depth of the moments she captures, making her a truly distinctive artist in the field of photography.
