Getting to Know – Martin Dabek Photography

This post Getting to Know – Martin Dabek Photography first appeared on The Wedding Community Blog

Company Name: Martin Dabek Photography

Interview with: Martin Dabek

Location / Coverage: Bristol, South-West, UK

How did your business get started and who works at Martin Dabek Photography?

I photographed my first wedding for friends of mine, which happened to be in Mexico. The Mexican wedding was so much fun that I decided to look deeper into wedding photography. Here I am today having worked as a Bristol wedding photographer since 2009.

I’m the only person working for Martin Dabek Photography, although I occasionally use very talented second shooters when couples request it.

Had you always wanted to be a photographer?

I never trained to be photographer; I became interested while my sister was studying fine art photography at Uni. Interestingly enough both of my grandfathers were making a living from photography during the second war.

Can you remember how old you were when you took your first picture? What was it of?

I don’t remember the first picture I took, however I remember my first pictures Travel magazine featured. I also have fond memories of developing black and white pictures in our school darkroom with my friends.

Which areas of the UK do you cover?

I photograph mainly in Bristol, Somerset, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire . There are also some venues in Devon and London that recommend me, so quite often I photograph there too.

I’m also very happy to have some destination weddings booked for this year and next. I’m always very excited to photograph at venues I have never worked at before.

What do you feel sets you apart from other wedding photographers?

My couples say they can see it in my pictures that I’m really passionate about wedding photography. As Vincent van Gogh once said: “What is done in love, is done well”.

I think I also know how to photograph winter and low-light weddings well, and that’s probably the reason why I am as busy in winter as in summer months.

How would you describe your photography style?

Creative reportage wedding photography with an artistic twist. Or in other words, lots of candid moments and happy people!

What packages do you offer and what are your rates?

I offer 10 hours coverage (£1,550) as I want to tell the whole story of the day, from bridal/groom prep until night portraits, which is usually after the first dance.

I also offer stunning high quality albums which my clients love. On average couples spend £1,900-£2,500 for the coverage, with images on a USB and a wedding album.

If the wedding is midweek then I’m open to negotiation…

What is the best thing about your job?

Meeting new people, being part of their special day and creating something timeless for them. I always say to my couples that their wedding album will be their first family heirloom, which will be enjoyed by their kinds and grandchildren. Discovering new locations is also quite exciting.

Do you have a specialist area of photography?

Yes, weddings.

Who/what are your influences?

At the beginning of my career I was heavily influenced by Jerry Ghionis.

Do you have a favourite picture that you have taken (If you can choose!)?

This one…

What is your top tip for choosing a wedding photographer?

Friends, family and venue recommendations are great. If possible, meet up with the photographer face to face and look at their sample albums.

What’s your typical day like?

I walk my daughter to school taking along my stubborn Golden Retriever. On some days when my dog is particularly stubborn and I get stuck in the park I update my social media on the phone. Then back home I do editing, emailing, PR and meetings with my clients. After work I pick up my daughter – without a dog as I don’t want to spend too much time on social media!

Where can people find out more about Martin Dabek Photography?

• Website: martindabek.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/CreativeBristolWeddingPhotographer
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/martin_dabek_photography
• Twitter: @martindabek
• The Wedding Community: www.theweddingcommunity.com/3242/Suppliers/Martin-Dabek-Photography

This post Getting to Know – Martin Dabek Photography first appeared on The Wedding Community Blog