Sirena is an editorial wedding and film photographer with a distinctive style that effortlessly blends the artistry of film and digital photography. With her keen eye for fashion and exquisite details, she crafts visual narratives that immerse couples in the beauty of their own love story. As a professional storyteller, Sirena expertly captures the essence of each couple’s unique journey, skillfully documenting genuine emotions and creating a visual legacy that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Introduce yourself! How long have you been shooting and how old is your business?
Hello! I’m Sirena, a photographer with 5 years of experience. I started my photography journey as a food photographer on Open The Pantry. In 2022, I made the leap into professionally capturing love stories.
What are the sources of inspiration for your work?
I draw inspiration from so many different places, such as fashion editorials, film photography, fine art, my garden, food, nature, and my travels, it’s quite challenging to pinpoint. My husband and children are also a tremendous source of inspiration for me. They played a pivotal role in my journey as a photographer. Witnessing how quickly our memories fade and change made me fall in love with the art of capturing moments and preserving them for a lifetime. It’s this understanding of the fleeting nature of memories that sparked an obsession within me to try and capture and preserve those precious moments. However, what truly inspires me the most is connecting with my couples and getting to know their unique love stories. Each couple has their own beautiful story, and I aim to capture their connection and emotions in an authentic and visually stunning way.
What inspires your unique style, and how have you developed it over time?
My unique style is a blend of editorial and film photography. Over time, I have developed this style by constantly pushing my creative boundaries, experimenting with different techniques, and refining my craft. While I have a deep love for analogue film photography, I believe that blending digital and film allows me to create images that are both visually captivating and emotionally resonant.
How do you establish a connection with your couples to ensure trust and synergy?
Building a connection with my couples is crucial to me, especially since many of them are nervous about being in front of the camera. I strive to create a comfortable and open environment where they feel at ease and can truly be themselves. This approach aligns with my photography style, which moves away from stiff and unnatural poses. From the initial consultation to engagement sessions and weddings, I take the time to get to know their love story, understand their vision for the day, and establish trust. I never rush my couples! This helps us build a strong synergy, resulting in photographs that reflect their unique personalities and the essence of their relationship.
Could you share one of the most soul-stirring moments you’ve captured at a wedding?
It’s tough to choose just one as every wedding is filled with soul-stirring moments. However, a particularly memorable one was at the wedding of my friend Yimin. As their wedding photographer and friend, I was emotionally invested in the day. There was a moment when Yimin, the bride, was getting ready with her mother and sister Yixing, and they all broke down crying. As a mother of two young boys, I empathised with the joy and grief of seeing your daughter get married. The raw emotions and love that filled the room were palpable, and I found myself sobbing while capturing that heartfelt moment.
What are some of your favourite New Zealand destination wedding locations, from iconic venues to hidden gems?
New Zealand offers an abundance of options for destination weddings. While I may be biased because I got married in Queenstown, there’s something truly magical about both Queenstown and Wanaka. Recently, I had the privilege of flying in a helicopter with a couple to Roy’s Peak in Wanaka, and it reminded me of how fortunate we are to have such breathtaking scenery in our backyard. On the other hand, during a day trip, I stumbled upon Porter’s Pass just outside of Christchurch, near Castle Hill, which turned out to be a hidden gem worth exploring.
Do you primarily target local weddings or also cater to destination weddings?
I absolutely love capturing destination weddings, especially during the winter seasons in New Zealand! In fact, my upcoming plans include a four-month overseas travel adventure to Melbourne, Singapore, Korea, and Japan, where I’ll be capturing weddings in each of these places. During the summer, I primarily focus on capturing love stories locally. Whether it’s a romantic beach wedding or a grand celebration in a historic estates, I am always ready to capture the magic of love, no matter where it takes me.
How early should couples book your services?
I’m almost fully booked for 2023, and there are only a few dates available in the first half of 2024. Wedding dates tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Therefore, I advise couples to book at least 6-12 months in advance to secure their desired dates.
What advice do you give couples regarding their wedding photography?
My advice to couples is to prioritise open communication with their photographer. Share your vision, preferences, and any specific moments or details that are important to you. Remember that there are no strict rules to follow, so be open about what you want from your wedding photography. Trust your photographer’s expertise, allow them to capture the day organically and have fun with them! Ultimately, your wedding is a celebration of your love, and the photographs will serve as cherished memories for years to come.
What’s next for you in 2023 and beyond?
In 2023, I am incredibly excited to embark on a four-month overseas travel adventure, starting this Sunday, where I’ll be capturing weddings in Melbourne, Singapore, Korea, and Japan. I’m looking forward to expanding my destination wedding portfolio and capturing love in beautiful locations around the world. I’m also thrilled to be bringing my entire family along, turning it into an unforgettable adventure. After returning in November, I plan to organise a styled shoot in Melbourne before the peak wedding season begins. I’m dedicated to capturing love stories in a meaningful and artistic way, refining my skills as a film photographer, exploring new creative techniques, and pushing the boundaries of storytelling through photography. It’s going to be an exhilarating journey!
For more beautiful photography visit Sirena Photography on the Wild Hearts Vendor Collection HERE
