Have you ever wanted to “pick the brain” of a celebrity wedding photographer? It’s your lucky day! In this deep dive conversation, Joel and I chat about all things traveling (and how to get into other countries with all your gear), the move towards digital and his gear of choice, and finally, what his client communication looks like from the first call to the final delivery. You don’t want to miss this episode! Joel even shares some behind the scenes stories from his times shooting alongside his talented husband, Jose Villa, for celebrity clients like Justin Bieber & Hailey Baldwin and Nick Jonas & Priyanka Chopra. Hit play to tune in!

About Joel Serrato:

Joel Serrato’s artistry in wedding photography is built upon a strong foundation of capturing pure moments of emotion, innocence, laughter and love. Specializing in huge, complex weddings and seeking clients who are crazy in love and aren’t afraid to cry, the Harper’s Bazaar published photographer’s nuptials of note include Pat Benatar, Tamera Mowry, Elle Fowler and Adam Housley, to name just a few.

Key Takeaways:

• When traveling out of the country for photography, being confident is your greatest asset to get through checkpoints with film and expensive gear.
• Use a Carnet! A Carnet is a single document that lists all of your gear that you will be traveling with. It proves ownership and eliminates the need to pay duty or import taxes.
• Sony Alpha 1 is Joel’s digital gear of choice
• Indie Film Lab is Joel’s lab of choice
• When it comes to communication with your clients, responding right away is Joel’s biggest recommendation. It makes them feel special and taken care of.
• You have to learn how to communicate in a way that works for your personality. Whether that is via email, phone call, or text message.
• Joel’s goal is to always be the first photographer to speak to the client to educate them and show his expertise.
• You should know where you stand apart so that you can strategically share your expertise on that first phone call. Since Joel shoots a lot of Mexican weddings, he uses his expertise as a Mexican himself to make himself stand apart.
• What is the thing that they’re looking to hear from you that will tell them that they’re hiring the right person? Make sure to ask them what their biggest concern is about their photography. This is where you gain their trust.
• When you’re faced with a moment that you’re afraid or nervous to get a shot – always go for it. Those are the moments that the best shots live in.
• If you’re looking to build a team for your brand, it’s important that you bring on team members who aren’t just there for themselves, but that they’re willing to do what it takes and what’s best for the brand.
• It’s important to remain calm in the most chaotic moments. The clients need to know that things are still moving forward. Or as Joel says “put on a swan face”.
• Being a photographer is a blend of professionalism and making connections with your clients that stand the test of time.

For more ways to listen to this episode – CLICK HERE!

Check It Out! 

• Follow on Joel Serrato on Instagram
• Visit Joel Serrato’s Website
• Chris Voss Teaches The Art of Negotiation
• The Profitable Portfolio