Elisha is the lady behind Elisha Clarke Photography. With a background in Fine Art and Graphic Design and a passion for weddings it was no surprise that Elisha completed her BA in Photography before going on to start her own wedding photography business! Let me introduce you to the lady herself…
1. Hi Elisha, what words would you use to describe your style wedding photography?
Hi Levi! I would describe my approach to wedding photography as easygoing, attentive and natural. I have a relaxed and reportage style.
2. What do you think is the most important trait in a wedding photographer?
Grace under pressure! That, creativity and reliability I’d say.
3. If you had one wish what would it be?
To live in a beautiful country house venue that looks like something from a Thomas Kincade painting or to get married myself someday!
4. How you begin your career in photography?
I studied an Art foundation course in 2001 and then went onto do a BA in Photography in IADT Dun Laoghaire until 2005. I shot my first wedding in 2007 and decided to start a business in early 2011. I’ve always been into drawing portraits so photography was a natural progression from that. I really love it!
5. Many couples are now doing engagement shoots before the wedding day. Do you think all wedding couples should try do the same?
I would definitely recommend it. Getting to know my couples before their wedding day is important to me and I try and keep in touch with most of them in the run up to the day, so doing an engagement shoot helps us to get to know each other and work out what is comfortable for them in front of the lens. This usually negates any nerves some people may have on their wedding day, plus they get some lovely photos! These can be used on their wedding day in a guest book or frame to be signed.
6. What has been your favourite wedding you have photographed?
That’s really hard! It has to be a toss up between Jane & Brian’s in Gweedore, Donegal, Jenny & Declan’s in Bellinter house and Aine and Karl’s in the Village at Lyons last year. There’s so many I can’t decide! I’ve been really lucky to work with so many lovely cool couples.
7. If you could photograph a wedding in any setting in the world where would it be?
Another difficult one! The first place that comes to mind is Japan. I’d love to witness and experience new wedding traditions. That would be a dream.
8. What gets on your nerves?
In general what get’s on my nerves is littering. It bothers me seeing rubbish everywhere particularly parks and rivers with wildlife there.
9. What would be your ideal holiday, action packed adventure or a relaxing retreat?
A happy mix of both! I love relaxing breaks but it’s nice to do some activities like kayaking or something.
A little more about Elisha…
“I grew up in near Dun Laoghaire where I’m still based. I love going for walks and will often be found sipping chai lattes and editing in a corner of my local coffee shop! I’m an Elite Yelper and I love attending events they organise. I also can’t get enough of learning so I can sometimes be found at seminars or conferences in photography and design as well as learning online. I believe that life is what you make it and no matter what you have, you make the best of it. Work hard and things will pay off. As my mum likes to say, “what’s for you, won’t pass you by” I like to imagine that’s true!”
