Capturing love as it truly feels.
Based in rural New England, NSW, Anna Kemph approaches wedding photography with a quiet sensitivity, finding beauty in feeling rather than perfection. Inspired by the pace of country life, her work balances light-filled, editorial portraits with sincere, unguarded moments. Each image is rooted in connection, calm and authenticity.
Your work is guided by the idea of noticing beauty rather than striving for perfection. When did this way of seeing first become central to your photography?
I guess it was from the beginning. But I really noticed it when as I was taking photos and mums or anyone would say what they don’t like about themselves or you could tell they were worries but the feedback I got of how beautiful they felt just warmed my heart. I wanted to show them how beautiful that I see them is.
Being based in rural New England, NSW, your surroundings feel closely connected to your imagery. How does the landscape influence the feeling or pace of your work?
I think the way of life influences me the most. The laid back nature of rural people is really shown in my weddings.. And the fact that I can look out of my office window at home and all I see is natural beauty it always inspires me to feel creative.
Your photographs feel both composed and deeply natural. How do you approach creating images that feel editorial while still honouring real, unguarded moments?
I explain to couples that I understand how it feels to be on the other side of the camera but the more they just focus on loving each other and less on standing stiff for me the more natural it will feel. I make sure I am capturing the inbetween moments between the poses – these are my favourite moments, and then I just talk lots, get them to laugh, get them to feel the feels of the day!
Before a wedding day arrives, what matters most to you in understanding a couple and their story?
I actually will forever love doing an engagement session. I spend more time talking getting to know them but I love that the couple gets to know me and how its not as scary as they may think to be in front of my camera and its like we almost become friends so they relax so much more on the wedding day.
During a wedding, are there particular moments or details that quietly draw your attention more than others?
Oh that’s hard! there is so many moments! Probably cliche but I love everyone’s face during the ceremony. The parents holding hands, the tears, the smiles, everything is just so raw and special that I know I would love to be captured on my wedding day, to see my family and loved ones so proud and happy.
Your sessions are described as sincere and tailored. How do you help couples feel at ease so their connection can unfold naturally in front of the camera?
I really base it around the couples or families personality and work out what makes them comfortable whether its friendly banter or more quiet and reserved.
As your work continues to evolve, are there creative ideas or personal projects you feel drawn to exploring next?
I always love learning and growing and will never stop. I am getting married myself soon so excited to learn what its like to be the bride and I feel like it will help me tailor my business even more and I love joining retreats and workshop where I can learn not only from the hosts but the people beside me.
Are there locations—close to home or further afield—that you dream of photographing weddings in over the coming years?
I have some epic venues and weddings coming up this year but I would really love to travel to the Northern Territory and New Zealand for a wedding and just more on property weddings!
What inspires your visual language outside of weddings, and how do those influences find their way into your imagery?
As mentioned before its the rural lifestyle that inspires me. Taking my camera for a walk through the paddock or with my fiance when they are doing cattle work. Just slowing down and capturing these moments always inspires me.
For couples beginning their search, what guidance would you offer when choosing a photographer they’ll trust to tell their story with care?
Choose someone that you can trust to just work their magic. You want to love how a person’s photos make you feel and you want to make sure they bond with you! Even book the engagement session before the wedding to know what it is like to be in front of that photographer’s camera.
For more information visit annakemphphotography.com and @annakemphphotography. Explore more of Anna Kemph Photography in the Together Journal Online Directory.
Anna Kemph Photography
