Emma Linden Interview: I’m Emma and I am a lifestyle & wedding photographer.

Swanky Magazine Interviews the wonderfully talented photographer - Emma Linden

PHOTOGRAPHER SPOTLIGHT | Emma Linden from Harrogate, England, currently based in San Jose, California.

Love doesn't have to be presented to the world in a big, fancy venue; it's wherever your hearts will connect with one another. This series shows that it doesn't matter where you choose to get married, all that matters is that you're with that one person that makes every place special.

Q1.Swanky Mag: Hello, Can you introduce yourself to Swanky Magazine's readers? Can you tell us a little about you?

I’m Emma and I am a lifestyle & wedding photographer. I do most of my work in the Bay Area, but am planning to expand beyond Northern California as a travel photographer.

Q2. How, and when did you get into photography?

Growing up my family always took loads of photos, (so I have l many fond memories to look back on); something I appreciate even more now as a photographer. My dad had a film camera that I always found fascinating, and once I got my own at age 10, I took pictures of anything I found inspiring or beautiful.
Like many photographers, it started out as a fun hobby. I took classes in high school and university for fun, and really found a great interest in it. I also worked in a photography studio for a while to gain some experience, while earning some money too.
In the mists of a global-wide pandemic, I decided to do more with my passion and started my own photography business. It took a lot of time and energy to get myself to a point of feeling really proud of my work, but like anything in life that you want badly enough, it takes a lot of persistence, patience, and practice.

Makeup Artist/Hair Stylist: Paola's Bridal Beauty
IG: @paolasbridalbeauty
Creative Director: Miriam Mosqueda
IG: @capture_by_miriam
Photographer: Emma Linden
IG: @emmalindenphotography

Q3.What does photography mean to you?

Photography has allowed me to be a much more creative, eccentric, and spontaneous version of myself. I can always find a way to challenge myself and my creativity. It’s also shown me an amazing community of people and some beautiful places. Capturing precious moments in someone’s life is truly an honorable thing to me. I take great pride in my responsibility do to so and leave them with a lasting memory of that special day.

Q4.Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

Posed shots can definitely look very beautiful and pristine, and I’ll do them on occasion, but that’s just not real life. I am much more a lifestyle photographer than anything. Capturing people being themselves and shooting a candid moment feels more special for both myself and my clients. Getting a glimpse into who they are as individuals and as a couple, gives me the opportunity to connect with them more, and show an honest portrayal of some special moments.

Q5.Where do you get your inspiration from?

Nature is a big inspiration for me. I love that with just the change of seasons, lighting of the sun, and a different angle, you can create a whole different scene.

Q6. Do you think in advance what you want in the picture?

I always plan ahead to have ideas in my mind of ways to get some fun and creative shots. But more often than not, I love to go off the trail and do things a bit spontaneously to keep things exciting for the couple and myself.

Q7.Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

Both! I’m still always learning and challenging myself for fun as well as for work. I think if you’re going to make a career out of something, you really should have a love and passion for it, otherwise, it’s just another job to pay the bills.

Q8. What has been your most memorable session, and why?

It was actually a maternity shoot. This was for a friend of mine who was welcoming a second baby. I had known the family for a year at this point, I’d seen her little girl become a toddler, and was now watching their family grow bigger. It was wonderful to be able to share my excitement with them by taking these photos. I found out they have a favourite shot of mine now hanging in their home. At that point, I felt that my work had a lot of value to it.

Q9. Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

I’m a firm believer in Canon! I’ve used it for years now, and love the quality and sharpness I always get. I also appreciate that regardless of ability and skill, it’s a camera everyone can learn to use easily.
My go-to lens is the 35mm. It gives me the perfect distance from where I need to be, especially with weddings, and sharp images, and hasn’t failed me yet!

Q10. What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?

Building clientele is a challenge when first starting off, so take plenty of time to practice with friends and family to give yourself some rhythm to the process, as well as building your portfolio. It might take some time to figure out your style as well, but experiment with it, and you’ll eventually land on something that fits your image.

Follow Emma’s journey here:

Photographer: Emma Linden

IG: @emmalindenphotography