A moment with 'Wildly Ever After – Wedding Photo + Film'
ABIA meets the man behind the cameras of this wedding photography and videography service based on Queensland’s Gold Coast.
All images Wildly Ever After – Wedding Photo + Film
In his 10 years as a wedding photographer and videographer, Anthony Jackson of Wildly Ever After – Wedding Photo + Film has seen almost everything — even a bride’s dress catch on fire at the alter.
“Luckily the bridesmaid stamped it out and the bride wasn’t phased,” he explains.
Little wonder he offers a fun, relaxed approach to capturing weddings and looks at any potential challenge as a chance to get creative.
ABIA caught up with the seasoned snapper to chat opportunities, inspiration and affordable wedding photography and videography packages.
Tell us about your wedding videography and photography services?
For 10 years now, I’ve been a full-time wedding photographer and videographer, with a deep passion for capturing weddings, elopements and engagements. I’ve covered more than 560 weddings and take pride in offering a fun, creative and affordable service.
In the past few years my hybrid shooting approach has become really popular, as it allows me to single-handedly combine photography and videography for couples who can’t afford these separately. That said, I also offer package deals with a separate photographer and videographer, so can accommodate all types of weddings.
My style is a mix of the fun, posed and candid and, while I always focus on the couple, I also like to ensure I capture the reactions of family and guests — after all, I’m in the memory catching business.
How did you get started in the wedding industry?
A celebrant, Tarnya Bennett, saw talent in me and encouraged me to pursue wedding photography and videography.
Where are you based and what locations do you service?
I’m based in the Gold Coast, but will travel anywhere.
What got you interested in filming and photography?
I was the kid behind the camera filming speeches at school. I went to film school after college, shot a wedding and loved it. As soon as I could, I threw myself into the deep end with weddings and have never stopped.
Where do you get your creative inspiration? And your ideas for locations?
I've always been creative, it's one of the things that makes me happiest. I can shoot anywhere regardless of the location — when I’m on a shoot I look at the elements within my surroundings and use them to complement the photos or video I'm capturing.
Are there challenges when recording both the video and photos for a wedding? How do you manage both mediums?
I find structure, and honest communication with my couples, is the best thing for managing filming and photography combined. And, I look at any challenges as fun opportunities to get creative.
Do you offer packages? What are the inclusions?
I offer both film and photos. I have four main packages and six single photo and video packages. I have a popular package where I photograph the day as normal, whilst filming the formalities off tripods, and another where I do the same with the inclusion of highlight videos.
What's the craziest wedding photo you've ever taken, or moment you've filmed?
I've seen a bride get to the altar and her dress catch on fire due to live candles. Luckily the bridesmaid stamped it out and the bride wasn’t phased by it at all!
What are your favourite locations? And what do you do when it rains?
I love Pioneer Country in Tweed Heads — it has a great vibe. And when it rains I just have fun with it, and remind my couples that the day is about them, not the weather.
What do you suggest couples look for in a photographer and videographer?
I suggest they look for someone fun, truthful and very honest. Not being stubborn helps a lot too!
What makes your service unique?
My service is fun and creative, and I try to provide as much footage as I can. Plus, I do it at a very affordable price, whilst getting the footage to the client within 6-8 weeks.
What was your favourite wedding?
There's no one wedding, but going back to New Zealand to photograph my mate’s wedding was amazing — I hadn't seen him, or other school mates that were there, in 10 years!
How would you describe the couples that you connect with the most?
I have the ability to get along with anyone, and relate on their level — so I tend to connect with all of my couples.
Read Wildly Ever After – Wedding Photo + Film ABIA Wedding Reviews
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