Hello, I’m Flo – a Fine-Art Wedding & Luxury event Photographer based between South West London & the Cotswolds. I have created this blog post so that you can get a better understanding of me, my brand and what you can expect if you are to book me. If you have any more questions please don't hesitate to email me at hello@flobrooksphotography.com
How did you get into photography?
I learnt the basics of photography and discovered my love for the subject when I studied it as an A Level at school. After my results being in the top ten in the country, I got a place at the London College of Fashion, where I received a first degree honours in Fashion Photography. Throughout my studies, I was always drawn to capturing people’s emotions in a natural way that led me down the path of event photography. The Fashion Photography course gave me the skills to direct and lead my couples into natural poses where they feel comfortable and at ease, which sets me apart from other photographers.
How long have you been running Flo Brooks Photography?
Having worked for a photography agency for a number of years, I realised that all I dreamed of being was my own boss, so in 2016 I set out on my own and created Flo Brooks Photography. It has been a life changing journey that has taught me so much about who I am and what I am capable of. I have met many people along the way who have influenced me and taught me skills from how to run a business, how to market myself and how to manage employees.
Where is your studio based?
My studio is based in a town house in the heart of Chelsea. I wanted to make the studio a place where my clients would feel comfortable and relaxed when they come to see me, so I converted the ground floor room into a light and airy office space with a cozy, soft seating area. To add to the homely touch, there is an abundance of flowers and deliciously scented candles.
Do you meet with clients before the wedding?
I always offer my clients either a FaceTime meeting so that we can discuss their wedding plans, or I tend to encourage them to come and visit me in my studio where they will be welcomed with a glass of bubbly followed by a chat in the garden. I love to get to know couples before the wedding to ensure that we have familiarised ourselves with each other so that they can feel as relaxed as possible on the big day.
Run us through your day-to-day?
As a photographer, my typical day changes depending entirely on what is booked. Some days I will be heading straight to a job, and others I will go straight to the studio, but you can rest assure all will start with walking my dog each morning in Battersea Park as it offers an escape from my life behind screens. The variation of being out on the job and time in the studio editing is what I love about what I do, no two days are ever the same. Working for myself means I can control the time schedules, even if sometimes allowing myself time between jobs isn’t my best skill, I will never be late. Other days I will work long into the evening as once the editing starts, the excitement of seeing the results come together is just too much
What do you tend to photograph?
What I love about running my own business is that I am able to choose what I photograph, however at this stage the combination of photographing weddings and luxury events keeps things exciting. Luxury events range from children’s birthday parties, weekend long wedding anniversaries and fiftieths to a weeks skiing in Norways capturing my client’s adventures of a lifetime.
Note: link to other pages
Do you purely photograph in the UK or do you ever go abroad?
I love travelling and discovering new places and cultures. This year I have been lucky enough to travel to Mallorca, Portugal, South of France and Italy to capture weddings and parties. The beauty of my job is that it allows me to travel far and wide.
Have you photographed in any well known venues in London?
I have the huge privilege of being a credited photographer at the National Gallery and have worked at a number of other iconic venues including Kensington Palace, Natural History Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, Tower of London, Banqueting House, Two Temple Place and The Wallace Collection
Who or what inspires you?
I feel inspired by a number of things .Working along side other creative indsutries is a big one for me. As a photographer theres nothing I love more than a wedding or an event that have gone above and beyond to ensure all the little details have been thought about. It excites me as I want to capture it all.
Do you work with events/wedding planners or do you work privately?
I am fortunate enough to work with highly sort after wedding and events planners, however I do take private bookings as well. If the job has come privately, then prior to the event/wedding I have a number of consultations with my clients so that I know the timings and the format of the day. This enables me to be in the right place at the right time and capture all those special moments!
What are your top tips to help ensure that your event is captured in the best way possible?
1. Make sure that you get ready nice and early so that you can be ready for the family photos before all the other guests arrive
2. Make sure you ask your photographer to arrive at least 45 minutes before your guests so that they can capture all the lovely details and thought, which you have put into the event.
3. I think that if you are putting on an event, you might as well go the extra mile and add lots of details in order to really create an atmosphere for your guests. For example, table decor and seating plans. Photographers love a party with a great theme, lots of colour and enthusiastic guests.
4. For good dancing photos, choose a band which brings their own lighting or use a production lighting company to add that wow factor to your event. The more lighting the better.
What is your favourite part about being a wedding and events photographer?
I love capturing people’s emotions, I always find that when people have had a few drinks and have let their hair down on the dance floor, it makes for the most entertaining and happy photos.
How would you describe your style and approach?
My style is a combination between fine art imagery and documentary which is ideal if you want to capture the the beautiful details of your wedding or event as well as people and their emotion’s. When photographing, I tend to blend in with the crowd to avoid being obtrusive as well as being able to calmly take intimate and animated photos.
DETAILS
Photography - Flo Brooks Photography
If you would like to book Flo Brooks Photography to capture your event please head to our contact page,
or alternatively, drop me an email: hello@flobrooksphotography.com
We look forward to hearing from you.