Photographer Annemarie Gruden

—Are you photogenic?

—I believe we are all photogenic. Beauty starts on the inside and it radiates out.

—How did you get in the photography industry?

—Backwards through the fashion and editorial industry that I grew up as a photographer in Calgary. I moved to Ottawa and applied my talents on the wedding industry with the photography skills I learned in the fashion industry.

—What are the most important components of a good photo in your opinion?

—Capturing the life force behind my subjects.

—Do you love traveling?

—Absolutely YES.

—What do you like most about your profession?

—Th formula for photography stands true and consistent, lighting composition exposures so that supports my need for consistency BUT I love the variation I find in locations, clients and every project is just that little bit different to keep me excited about creating images and capturing life changing moments.

—What do you like least about your profession?

—The paperwork.

—What will be the future of photography?

—I see wedding photography as an editorial. I LOVE documenting the day in the life elements at each wedding. Wedding photography progress's as does the world around us.

—What is special in the photography genre you specialise at?

—The people I get to meet. Capturing moments for them to look back on for years to come.

—How do you handle criticism?

—Constuctively.

—Are there any trends in photography?

—As in any profession yes. Do I get stuck in them, sometimes... but sometimes its nice to add a few new elements to the creative game. Personal style and industry knowledge is always growing and changing slightly.

—What should be the criteria for a customer to choose a photographer?

—Personality and photographic style. Make sure you like both.

—What things are to be avoided when shooting?

—A bad attitude.

—What details that usually pass unnoticed can a photographer notice?

—Lighting and emotion.

—What influences the value of a photo? What are its elements?

—Timeline elements. does it still scream greatness after 6 months a year even... Composition, lighting, does the emotion of the moment or personality shine thru. These elements are key for me.

—Do you have any professional taboos?

—Momma razzi's... and any other person who's picked up a DSLR and call themselves a professional with no knowledge of the industry or training.

—Who would you like to shoot with?

—Annie Leibovitz

—Would you rather be liked or respected?

—Respected first – likes second.

—When you're going to travel, what do you take with you and why?

—ALL my favourite cameras and lenses. So I don't miss that shot...

—How do you educate yourself to take better pictures?

—Always be open to learning and seeing new things. I studied for 4years at an Art College BUT I believe you have to study somewhere for a foundation then you learn the art and craft of the profession by actually shooting {mentoring with a PRO is always a good place to learn the day to day elements of photography}

—What do you want to say with your photographs?

—I like to capture beauty and moments that tell stories. Images that uplift and give a sense of pleasure or peace to the viewer.

—What motivates you to continue taking pictures?

—I've always been in the arts... I wouldn't know how to be anything else.

—Should your parents have been more or less strict?

—NO, They allowed me to be me and pursue my artistic side, hence falling into photography and loving it.

—When are you completely satisfied with your work?

—When client smiles, sometimes cries tears of joy at the images captured. I know I've done my job well.

—Do you believe in the traditional roles for men and women?

—Not really. We all play pretty equal roles in life, we are her to support and nurture each other to walk through this journey we call life.

—Do you make friends easily?

—I like to think so.

—Is there life after marriage?

—Absolutely.

—The best thing in life is:

—LOVE & the occasional Starbucks

—The most annoying thing in life is:

—Telemarketers that always have the best solution to get higher rankings on google ~ LOL

—What would you like to change in yourself?

—I would LOVE more creative time, to just make art.

—Can you give a few tips for photographers who are just starting out?

—Work for a PRO, ask lots of questions and observe.