I was so lucky to catch up with Sophie Kaye at The Hybrid Collective in Salt Lake City in 2021. I was struck by her fine art aesthetic and creative approach to her photography. As a photographer and a creative myself, I am always interested in hearing other artist’s definition of what fine art photography actually is. We asked Sophie a little bit about her approach and what her definition of fine art wedding photography really means.
Sophie is a fine art photographer based in New York. About her: “I am a lover of all the good things in life. Antique art, classic museums, romantic music, delicious desserts – I live for the experience of it all and enjoy every moment. I adore things that are beautiful for the sake of being beautiful, and experiences that leave your soul feeling a little bit richer.”
Q&A WITH FINE ART WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER SOPHIE KAYE
TSR: In your opinion, what defines a “fine art wedding photographer”? Is it style, medium, etc.
SK: A fine art photographer is someone who prioritizes the overall aesthetic and composition of the image. Someone who takes into account the lighting, colors, the lines/forms – all things that would be important to a traditionally “fine art” (painted, drawn) image. I tell my clients I do a little bit of art direction during their wedding – because I’m super aware of all of those things throughout the day.
TSR: Where do you draw inspiration from when styling flat lays?
SK: Mostly found objects – antiques, art, prints, writing, etc. Things I can find that may tie in a story or a detail that is important to the couple. I shot a couple getting ready at the Plaza Hotel in NYC and I loved including a vintage advertisement from the Plaza from the 50’s. It adds a further level of dimension and backstory to what feels like a very stationery and flat image. I love antiquing when I’m shooting destination weddings in hopes I can add something unique to their flatlays that represents the area or place they’re getting married.
TSR: On a wedding day, what is the most important items you carry in your styling kit?
SK: Probably the base essentials – acrylic risers to add dimension, ring boxes (many couples still only have the ones from their jeweler), and little dishes for added color and detail. I love collecting antique butter pat dishes – they’re the perfect size for a bout or a set of wedding bands, and are often embellished with gorgeous tiny paintings or designs that tie in well with the rest of the suite.
TSR: Do you have any tips for styling you would be willing to share?
SK: Give important items their portrait moment – to someone who loves fashion, a pair of amazing shoes or jewelry can be as special and as memory-triggering as an emotional moment. So many of my brides feel that their chosen accessories and details are just as important as the rest of the day, and serve to add to the story – so don’t just photograph shoes tossed in with other accessories. Take time to shoot things on their own too. Also, make sure invites are in focus! It’s my biggest pet peeve and I’m sure the calligrapher will appreciate crisp writing too. 🙂
We truly loved chatting with Sophie and getting to know her. Make sure to hop over to her Instagram at @sophiekayephotography to follow their wonderful journey!
Photos by: @sophiekayephotography
