READING TIME: 3 min 43 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/07/2024
UPDATED: 11/06/2024
“I’d say I’m a pretty normal, laid-back, easy-going guy,” says Vanja Vrkljan when asked about himself. “Happy to have found a second big passion in life.” Before photography became a full-time career, Vanja was immersed in another art form: cooking. “I worked the best I could to become a chef. After years and years of hard work and dedication, I dare say I had a pretty successful career as a chef.” But one day, the unexpected happened. “Lightning struck,” Vanja laughs, explaining how his career took a dramatic turn. “I exchanged delivering fine dining experiences for delivering photographs of precious moments in peoples’ lives.”
For Vanja, the transition from chef to photographer wasn’t a struggle but a natural evolution. He jokes about still being an excellent cook, but now he reserves his culinary skills for his loved ones. His deep appreciation for creativity and detail seamlessly transferred from the kitchen to the camera, and he has “never looked back” since embarking on his photography journey.
When it comes to experience, Vanja has spent the last seven years honing his skills as a wedding photographer. Over the years, Vanja has developed a style that is distinctly his own, combining an artistic touch with a laid-back approach.
“I have a simple approach, artisitc and intimate,” Vanja shares. His goal is to blend into the background and capture moments as they naturally happen, ensuring that couples feel comfortable and that the day is documented authentically. He’s there from the beginning of the day, capturing the bride and groom getting ready, all the way to the dance floor scenes late at night. He doesn’t intervene much, letting things flow naturally.
Vanja isn’t one to overcomplicate things when it comes to gear. “I’m a Nikon shooter,” he says with a smile. His main tools of choice are the Nikon Z series cameras and the trusty DSLR D780, paired with prime lenses that give him the versatility and clarity he needs.
For post-processing, Vanja takes a simple yet classic approach. “I try to make my photographs look clean and timeless,” he says. His editing process is straightforward and consistent. “All my edits are done in Lightroom, while being uniformed as a whole.” This commitment to simplicity allows Vanja’s work to have a cohesive, elegant feel that stands the test of time.
“What other job gives you the chance to see people at their happiest and best looking days, over and over again?” Vanja asks, clearly delighted by his role. The joy of wedding photography, for him, never gets old. Each wedding is an opportunity to witness couples and their families at their best, celebrating love and connection. “The joy never gets boring,” Vanja says, his passion for his work evident in his voice.
Vanja believes that part of what makes his job so rewarding is his ability to build trust with his clients. “Communication is key,” he stresses. “I document the day as it unfolds and I'm happy if I get some time during the day for couple photos.” Some clients are naturals in front of the camera, while others need a bit of direction. “Some people are natural in front of a camera, some need a little guidance from me,” he says, but he emphasizes that his goal is to make the experience as effortless as possible for the couple.
Vanja’s dedication to his craft is clear in the way he manages his workload. He usually takes on about 20 to 25 weddings per year. This limit allows him to give each couple the attention they deserve without spreading himself too thin. A typical wedding day for Vanja lasts between 10 to 12 hours. “From getting ready, to typically midnight. When all the big dance floor moments are caught,” he shares. His goal is to document the day in its entirety, capturing both the big, emotional moments and the small, candid details that often go unnoticed.
While Vanja offers standard wedding photography packages, he is always open to creating custom options for his clients. Whether it’s adjusting the hours of coverage or incorporating special requests, Vanja is happy to work with couples to design a package that fits their unique needs.
When it comes to destination weddings, Vanja is no stranger to travel. “Yes,” he says enthusiastically. While he’s worked in various locations, Italy holds a special place in his heart. “I’d love to work more in Italy,” he admits. The country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and romantic ambiance make it a dream destination for both photographers and couples alike.
For couples preparing for their big day, Vanja has one piece of advice: “Embrace what ever little detail doesn't go as planned.” He explains that weddings, like life, are unpredictable, and sometimes the best moments come from unexpected situations.
For pre-wedding photo shoots, Vanja keeps it simple: “Just bring your good will,” he advises. He encourages couples to relax and enjoy the experience, assuring them that the photos will reflect the emotions of the day.
For Vanja Vrkljan, wedding photography is more than just a job; it’s a passion that continues to grow with each new experience. Whether he’s capturing a couple’s first dance or the quiet moments before the ceremony, Vanja brings his unique blend of artistry, professionalism, and genuine joy to every wedding he shoots. His easygoing nature, combined with his attention to detail, makes him a trusted photographer for couples who want their love stories told authentically and beautifully.
