Each month, we shine the spotlight on wedding businesses, allowing you, our reader, to get up close and personal with some of the best wedding vendors in town and further afield.  Here, you can learn more about the people behind some of the businesses you may be using to make your wedding the day you’ve always dreamed of!

This month, we talk to world-renowned, Italian destination wedding and elopement photographer, Serena Genovese. Serena is passionate about her art, the couples she photographs and capturing precious moments to remember forever. We discuss how she entered the world of wedding photography; her strangest request from a couple yet and much, much more…..Enjoy!

Above: Serena Genovese

What first inspired you to be become a photographer and to photograph couples and weddings?

I studied photography while university, and felt the course was quite frankly boring and uninspiring. My professor was very demanding, and all my classmates were obsessed with photography, and I just did not feel the same. The exams came and I focused on the theoretical part, but the most difficult for me was the practical aspect of the course. My professor was giving very low marks to all my classmates who were extremely proud of their photos. When my professor saw my photo’s, he complimented me on my practical work and from that moment I started to see photography in a different way.

I decided to spend more time understanding this new world and I completed an internship at an industrial photography studio. There, I learned everything about light and photography. It was an amazing time, however, I discovered that I am a dynamic and romantic person. So, I started working for a wedding photography studio and I soon that photographing weddings was my life. After 2 years I opened my own studio in Italy, and so far, it has been the best decision I have ever made.

Can you remember the first couple you photographed? Talk us through the experience.

I remember my first wedding like it was yesterday, it was June 2010, and during the ceremony I cried. The couple were so in love, and I was so excited to capture their special day. Just after they said “I do “they looked at each other full of love, then she leaned her head on his shoulder. I remember this moment vividly, and I am happy that they have these photos printed and as a forever keepsake. Even though my eyes were full of tears, I managed to photograph the moment. I understood then, that I was made to capture love and beautiful emotions.

How would you describe your style of photography and what makes you stand out from other destination wedding photographers?

My photography style is all about emotion, with a vintage kodak film look. I shoot in a natural and non-obtrusive way, and when I shoot engagements or proposals, I help the couple express their emotions. We have fun together and we also share some intimate moments together.

What’s the most unusual request you’ve ever received from a Bride or couple?

A couple asked me if I would photograph them naked together. I’m still considering it, ha-ha! This is not in the UAE of course.

Tell us about the process you go through with the bride and groom, from the very first consultation to the wedding event itself…

When I meet a couple, in person or via Skype, I want to know all about their story and their wedding, I love hearing about it all. I want first to understand if we are on the same page in regards to style and direction, and then I want to get to know the couple, in order to capture their real essence. This is the most important part of the initial conversation, as we get to know eachother, which helps build a relationship of trust. On their wedding day, they will hardly notice I am there as capture their special day.

What advice would you give to couples who are looking for a wedding photographer?

The most important thing to find a photographer, with a style that suits you as a couple. Photography and videography will last forever, so it is well worth investing into. Memories are so precious.

What budgets do you cater for and does the fact that you are based in Italy, mean couples must pay for your travel and accommodation expenses too?

My clients are those who believe in the importance of great photography, and not just something they have to do. My pricing is the same in Italy and in UAE, and I do not add travel and accommodation to my couples in the UAE.

Do you have any favourite locations in the UAE to shoot couples or weddings?

I love everything about the UAE, especially the weather, I love simple things, that’s why I love the desert! For me, the location is just a frame surrounding the emotions of the couple. I adore desert colours, textures and light. So, if I must choose, I love Bab al Shams, and Al Maha resort, but I also have a soft spot for the mountain backdrop of Hatta.

Lastly, what did you choose to list with www.brideclubme.com?

When I started researching the Dubai and UAE wedding scene, I immediately discovered Bride Club ME, and I loved it. It had an exclusive and welcoming vibe and that is what I look for when marketing on platforms.

Thanks Serena! So, there you go brides, if you are looking for a passionate, talented photographer to shoot your big day once weddings are back on, contact her today. To see more of Serena’s work, visit www.serenagenovese.ae or visit her BCME vendor profile here. Don’t forget to let her know you found her on Bride Club ME, she may offer you a sneaky discount or engagement session :)