Behind the Camera: Meet B Graves Photography

White Dahlia is so excited to have Brandi Graves of B Graves Photography at Hidden Vineyard on May 28th for The Collective! She has been in business for 11 years and can't wait to meet you in a few short weeks!

What made you decide to become a photographer?

I have always had an obsession with taking photographs. I had some childhood trauma that really affected my memory, so taking photos was a way to keep from losing any more. My love for photography started back in the days of the disposable camera - I swear my friends and I invented the selfie with those ages ago! I learned to shoot on film in high school and continued my studies at Herron School of Art in college. I ended up changing career paths and was a hairstylist for almost 20 years. (This has come in handy for a few wedding day emergencies!) I eventually picked up a digital camera along the way and haven't put it down since!

Surprisingly, I found my love for photographing weddings after my divorce. Being surrounded by love every weekend was a reminder that love is real and definitely helped me from becoming jaded. I’m a romantic at heart and I love meeting new couples, hearing how they fell in love and getting to share their love story.

How would you describe your style of photography?

Timeless. I want my clients to look back at their photos in 50 years and remember it exactly as it was and not see a trend. My editing style is crisp, clean, and true to color with a little punch. Perfectly balanced between classic and candid styled portraits that show authentic smiles, real laughter, and lots of love

What are some of your favorite moments to capture on a wedding day?

This is a tough one! I love everything about a wedding day! I love seeing the bride’s face when she looks at herself for the first time. I love seeing the parent reactions during the ceremony. I love my couples excitement as they walk back down the aisle as a married couple. I LOVE a first look! I always tell my couples that doing a first look gives you TWO “WOW” moments, and they also get to spend the whole day together and can roll into the end of cocktail hour to enjoy some of that as well. A lot of time goes into planning the perfect day, getting to spend as much of it as possible with your person makes it a lot of fun. A first look is also a great time to exchange personal vows to each other, shake out any nerves and make the moment even more special.

What should couples look for or ask when they are looking for a wedding photographer?

I think it’s important to look for a photographer who’s style matches your vision. Not only their editing style but the way they approach the day. Are they someone who sits back and captures your day as it unfolds or will they get in there and pose people to create moments. Don’t forget, we will be spending a lot of time together on your wedding day so it's equally important to find someone that you are really comfortable with. Social media is a curation of everyone's best work and the amount of followers they have doesn't necessarily mean anything. Asking to see an entire gallery is always a good idea!

How would you describe yourself to someone who has never met you? Any fun facts you would like to share?

I would say that I am independent, fun-loving, honest, and hardworking. As an enneagram 2, I love to be helpful and I always make sure everyone is taken care of. I’m actually a bit of an introvert but most people do not know that until they get to know me because I put on a really good “extrovert” front. I can be quiet at first, but once you get to know me, I open up. I dislike small talk, I really love getting to know people and what is important to them.

I love a good cup of coffee, live music, pajama Sunday, and all things coconut. When I’m not working you can find me road tripping through southwest Michigan trying flights at the local wineries/breweries/distilleries, checking out new restaurants, or roaming the aisles at Target.

Come chat with Brandi on May 28th at Hidden Vineyard! Tickets are still available for our unique and interactive wedding show event and can be purchased on our website. You can follow B Graves and check out her past wedding work on Instagram (@bgravesphotography), Facebook (B Graves Photography) and on her website www.bgravesphotography.com. Inquiries can be sent to BrandiGravesPhotography@gmail.com.