I won The Wedding Award Germany (2022) in the category of photography wedding reporting; I’ve also had publications in various online magazines that are specifically focused on the wedding industry. Two of my photographs have been featured in British Vogue, which makes me extremely proud…”
Claudia Klassen, Destination Wedding Photographer
Claudia Klassen is a wedding photographer specialising in destination weddings and is the founder of Klassen Weddings. She dedicates her work in the wedding industry to elevating the best day for brides and grooms by capturing their celebrations in an artful and professional manner. Claudia’s images have appeared in British Vogue, Wed Vibes, The Lane, Frieda Theres, Green Wedding Shoes, To the Aisle Australia, 50 Moodboards, and Wedding Chicks…
C&B: “Claudia, congratulations on being named as one of the CITY & BEACH LIFESTYLE TOP 10 DESTINATION WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS OF 2024! How long have you been in the wedding photography business, and what first prompted you to go into this particular area?”
CK: “I started with photography as a little girl and began wedding photography and the business behind it in 2019; it all started with newborn photos after my own pregnancy and one mom who asked me to take pictures of her wedding. It wasn’t planned; I never had the intention to turn a hobby into more. However, it was ‘love at first sight’, and soon nothing could stop me; I booked trips and photographed weddings over and over. Now, I’m here to capture the most stunning weddings with the most amazing couples in incredible places all over the world…”
C&B: “Although you started taking photographs at a very young age, did you have to study or work with another professional to gain experience?”
CK: “Originally I studied German law and worked for the German justice system. I taught myself everything, mostly through practice and from other amazing photographers!”
I’m the main photographer, and three more amazing women assist me. Couples can also book both photo and video services with me and my teammate Tobi!”
Claudia Klassen, Destination Wedding Photographer
C&B: “You’re photography is very distinctive; what would you say sets your work apart and first attracts your clients?”
CK: “That’s a difficult question! I always find it very challenging to describe myself; I think my unique selling point is my blend of documentary and editorial art, combined with my personality as a team player, vendor, and cheerleader for my couples. I also love to say that my couples’ wedding photos are a priority to me; they receive a preview of 100–150 edited photos within 24 hours after the wedding day…”
C&B: “Wow – that seems very pressurised from your perspective! Are there any other major challenges you come across on the big day?”
CK: “The biggest challenge would be if a couple didn’t trust me, however, luckily, this has never happened before. That would be my worst nightmare! All conditions, like weather or location difficulties, are nothing in comparison to that. When the couple trusts me, we can manage everything with big smiles on our faces…”
C&B: “There is so much that goes on behind the scenes that nobody knows about. Would you describe your work as stressful?”
CK: “Yes, my work is stressful, and often I get just 2-3 hours of sleep per night. However, I absolutely love working in the dream career I chose. I relax by sleeping on the plane on the way back from a beautiful wedding in a stunning country and by spending time with my family when I return. I live in a really small village in Germany and enjoy life in the countryside with family and friends who are like family – that’s what calms me down and helps me recharge!”
I adore every destination wedding, whether it’s in Mexico or Italy – places I’ve always dreamed of…”
Claudia Klassen, Destination Wedding Photographer
C&B: “You mention the beautiful locations where your projects are staged; where have you visited to photograph weddings?”
CK: “I work all over Europe and wherever my couples bring me. In the past, I’ve traveled to Italy, Spain, France, Portugal, the UK, Iceland, America, Mexico, Marrakech, Bali, Thailand, and many more. Wherever my couples choose to celebrate their love, I will be there. For example, the Oberoi Marrakech, Villa Astor in Sorrento, Italy, Château de Varennes in France, Son Togores in Mallorca, and many more.”
With regard to professional collaborations, I’m truly proud to be part of The Lane and Web Vibes!”
Claudia Klassen, Destination Wedding Photographer
C&B: “Last question, Claudia, who would you most like to work with or which project would you most like to work on?”
CK: “One of my biggest dreams came true this year when I was able to work with the Ibiza- based Tali Photography. There are numerous amazing artists and personalities out there, and I appreciate each and every one of them and their talents. Working with other artists is always the biggest inspiration for me…”
Final words! I’m so proud to be part of this magazine. It means the world to me that I can reach so many people with my art. Thank you for everything!”
Claudia Klassen, Destination Wedding Photographer
WEBSITE: http://www.klassen-weddings.com
