11 Questions with... Wedding Photographer Dominika Miechowska
Introducing Dominika Miechowska, documentary-style photographer and wedding storyteller. In this month's 11 Questions, Dom lets us in on how it all started, the secrets to industry success and the best thing about working in weddings...
After accidentally falling into the wedding industry eight years ago, Dominika Miechowska has captured endless love stories and couples on their special day through her camera lens. Specialising in a natural, fun and relaxed style of photography, Dom's portfolio features city weddings, countryside celebrations and everything in between. We caught up with Dom to find out where it all began, as well as the secrets behind being a successful wedding photographer.
How Did You Get Started in the Wedding Industry?
Totally by accident! I never dreamt of being a wedding photographer.
I bought my first semi professional camera 11 years ago and about the same time I moved to London. I was fascinated by the city so the camera was with me pretty much all the time. Photography was a way to express myself and document my life in the big city.
One day I was asked by my Aunt if I could take photos of her wedding - I said yes! It was a very intimate celebration with close friends and family. As everyone knew me and felt comfortable around me, the photos came out very natural and relaxed. That was it! I decided to use those photos to advertise myself and see if anyone would like to work with me. The results were overwhelming and eight years later I am still here!
What Does Your Typical Working Day Involve?
My days always start with a cup of coffee and some admin work. During the wedding season most of the time I am editing photos and communicating with my couples.
Weekends are booked for weddings! During quiet months my days usually involve some meeting and pre-wedding shoots for all my booked wedding couples. It's also time to work on some website updates, social media etc.
What Is It That You Love about Working in Weddings?
People! Every wedding is different thanks to the people and that makes me very excited and creative.
What Do You Find Most Challenging in Your Work?
Myself! I put so much pressure on myself all the time as I want to make sure all my couples get an unforgettable experience and all moments captured in the best possible way. I always think I could have done better!
What Did the Coronavirus Pandemic Teach You about Your Business?
That I am not only a photographer on the day, I want to make sure that I am always there for my couples if they need me.
What's Your Advice for Someone Who Wants to Work in Your Field in the Wedding Industry?
To be successful in the wedding industry you need to be true to yourself, love people and be ready to sacrifice your personal life, especially during the weekend which you could have spent with your family and friends.
Being a part of the wedding industry is so rewarding and worth those sacrifices!
Which Wedding Professionals Inspire You?
Fer Juaristi for his creativity and unique approach. Jonas Peterson for his mind-blowing way of storytelling. Not from the wedding industry, photographer Rodney Smith and director Wes Anderson.
Which Current Wedding Trend Do You Want to See More of?
Being able to shoot some micro weddings during a global pandemic made me realise that we tend to forget what is really important. Couples easily get lost during intensive wedding planning and they put so much attention on things that don't matter during the day.
I love the idea of a smaller, intimate wedding day where all the attention is on celebrating a couple.
What’s Your Favourite Wedding from a Film or TV Programme?
Schitt's Creek - the wedding day of David and Patrick in the last episode.
What Is the One Wedding Tradition You Would Ditch and Why?
Cutting of the cake without a doubt! I just don't get it!
What’s Your Next Ambition for Your Business?
Firstly, let's get back to normality!
Then I want to make sure that all my couples can finally get married and I can capture the best possible memories for them.
See Dominika's work on Instagram @dominikamiechowska_photography.
For even more inspiration, check out our directory of photographers.