Wedding Professional Wednesday: Marc Harmon Photography, Inc.

When a new couple comes to Joie de Vie Weddings & Events, Inc. to plan their special event, we realize that aside from the location for their festive soiree, documenting the event is a key and incremental part of the day. We always encourage our clients to carefully select all of their vendors, however, photography is the one element we are adamant about. A good photo speaks for itself and needs no interpretation. After the festivities your photography and videography are the only archive you have of the day.

Today on our weekly edition of Wedding Professional Wednesday, we are happy to feature one of Central Florida's gems in photography, Marc Harmon of Marc Harmon Photography, Inc. Marc took a moment to let us know a little bit about him and his work, he also gave some great tips that you as a bride or groom should consider when selecting a photographer. Aside from answering our questions, Marc gave us a few beautiful photos to show you his unique eye for detail. A unique eye is definitely a key to capturing your special day.

Name: Marc Harmon

Name of your Company: Marc Harmon Photography Inc.

Location: Winter Springs, FL

Number of Years in Business: 8 (as a wedding photographer)

Website: http://www.marcharmonphoto.com/

Blog Address: marcharmon.typepad.com/marc_harmon_photography

Tell us a little about your business and the services you offer:

Marc Harmon Photography is dedicated to excellence and creativity. We believe every wedding is unique, each with its own story. We know photography is more than just documenting the details of the wedding; it’s about capturing the excitement, joy and romance of the special day with our unique style, which is a blend of fashion and photojournalism. We accept only a limited number of weddings each year to give couples the best quality and highest level of personal attention possible. We utilize post-production techniques to enhance the images to their greatest potential. An on-line slide show, on-line proofs, master disc of images, and two photographers are included with every package.

How did you get started?

I began my photography career in 1993 as a photojournalist in the United States Marine Corps. I graduated with a degree in Photography from Daytona Beach Community College in 1999. From there, I worked with other photographers to learn more about the craft and business of photography, while also taking on projects of my own. At that time, I was more into the commercial and editorial side of the business. After photographing a couple of weddings "on the side" I decided to make weddings and portraits my primary business.

What professional organizations or networking are you a member of?

Professional Photographers of America
Wedding and Portrait Photographers International
Association of Bridal Consultants

Any industry awards or recognition?

Voted "Best Of" by The Knot two years in a row for photographers in Central Florida.

Furthest place and/or interesting place you’ve traveled to while working on a wedding assignment?

Though I am open for travel, I haven't traveled too far for a wedding just yet. However, I have photographed other assignments in Africa, Korea and Okinawa.

What are a few suggestions you would make to couples as they are selecting a professional in your service are for their special day?

They need to make sure they are actually hiring a professional, not a hobbyist with a nice camera and a business card. Here are some qualities of a professional photographer:

1. Because of much past experience, can anticipate the moments and be ready to capture them.
2. Has a definite knowledge of their equipment, and carries back-ups just in case.
   Is able to interact with the couple and their guests in a professional manner.
3. Can identify the couple's style and personalities and incorporate those elements into their images.
4. Is responsible with deadlines and keeping in contact with the couple.
5. Can work with the other wedding vendors as a team to create a seamless experience for the couple on their wedding day.
6. Understands the business side of photography.

What are the trends and innovations in your service area?
"Trash the Dress" Sessions. I have taken what is commonly referred to as "The Day After Session" or a "Trash the Dress Session" and re-named it to the "Fashionably Late Session." These sessions are done after the wedding day due to lack of time, a desire for a change of environment, or because the dress won't be the same afterward. The reason I changed the name is because these sessions don't have to be the day after, and the dress isn't always "trashed." It can include the bride by herself or the couple (or both). It's always fun and unique.

What are your three favorite blogs besides the Joie de Vie blog?
1.Open Source Photo
2. Professional Photographers of America
3. Other photographers' blogs for inspiration

If you weren't a working in this industry, what field would you be in instead? Why?
I have considered going into counseling because I have always been a person my friends come to when they need to talk about something that is bothering them. I like the idea of helping people.

Favorite Reality Show?
Currently, I like watching True Beauty because the participants are judged on inner beauty as well as their looks. I like seeing a gorgeous person kicked off the show because they are a total snob.

What show do you Tivo/DVR?
Lost

We are truly honored that Marc has participated in our Wedding Professional Wednesday feature on the Joie de Vie Weddings & Events blog! As you are planning your special day, we hope that you look at your photography options. Interview the Professionals like Marc Harmon and select the company that will make your day an absolutely unique and unforgettable one!