Deborah Grace
Deborah's photography style is deeply rooted in her love for people and their unique stories. She brings a wealth of life experience to her work, drawing inspiration from her adventurous journey with her husband, Pete. Deborah's life has been a whirlwind of spontaneity and adaptability, from a quick engagement and marriage to renovating homes and moving from city life to the tranquility of the countryside.
Her approach to photography is all about capturing the essence of her subjects. Deborah believes that the story behind the photo is as important as the image itself. She excels at making art out of memories and moments, finding beauty in the everyday experiences of the people she photographs. Her work is characterised by a genuine connection with her clients, which shines through in the authenticity and warmth of her photos. Deborah's passion for storytelling through her lens ensures that each photograph is not just a picture, but a cherished memory.
How would you best describe your style?
I would describe my style as natural and perhaps ethereal (it's the warm peachy hues most likely). I'm always drawn to create colourful, yet soft, artistic images with a natural light aesthetic. The way in which I work is thoughtful, confident, relaxed, and often playful.Â
What sets you apart from other photographers?
I think it has to be my personality and simply the way that I see and operate. There will always be 'better' or 'worse' photographers, but who we connect with is unique to each of us.Â
Sometimes we click and sometimes we don't, and I've learnt that can actually be a gift and refine the work you do in a good way. This matters particularly with weddings, as it's such an intimate and emotive day, and I truly believe that half the job is being sensitive and emotionally switched on to the couple, flowing with their vibe as best as possible. So connection is helpful. I have loved the organic process of my job, operating mostly through recommendations and how certain images inspire or lead to clients that have a sense of familiarity.Â
What would you say are the most key factors in capturing the perfect image?
Going back to Q.2, I think connection, having fun and making people feel comfortable is pretty key to getting a shot with personality, which I love. Being quick to capture is important when documenting weddings, and I'd say it's the opposite for stills, going slowly, establishing the perfect light set up and giving time to the composition. Aesthetically, I'm always drawn to beautiful spacious vistas or colourful scenes, preferably with some gorgeous soft natural light -whether it's dawn/dusk/golden hour or, believe it or not, foggy and rainy days can also bring something special if you have that pop of colour. I tend to think that if you had fun at the time, you will think of that when you look at the image, if you were anxious and stressed, you might remember that, even if the image is striking… It all really depends on how you perceive a perfect image. But I think the memory it evokes is all part of it, so we want a number of factors!
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What’s been your most memorable event working with us to date?
Has to be for Lucy's fabulous wedding! Getting to capture her stunning floral designs and documenting her lovely LVF team as they brought it all together! A particular highlight was not just being surrounded in the dreamy beauty and fragrance of it all, but spending time with the team, who had the best work ethic! Such hard workers but also so much joy, pretty impressive given the sheer size of the task and very early morning start. The love and care they put into the job was stunning to behold. Loved this shoot.
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Share one project that you’re working on at the moment that makes you really excited for 2024?
I'm really enjoying working within the Create Academy team at the moment. It's been so inspiring working alongside film makers, and getting to take portraits of Gardeners, Designers and Makers. Every shoot you learn something new, with lots more to come this year!Â