Jean-Pierre Uys is a New York-based wedding and event photography specialist whose focus for the past 23 years has been the luxury wedding and event industry. Here we discuss Jean Pierre’s technique, his favourite shooting locations, and the most important aspects of creating images his clients will love forever…
One of my most significant accomplishments was receiving a green card for the category ‘an alien with extraordinary ability in the arts’; this required proving that I’m part of the top one percent in my field…”
Jean-Pierre Uys, Photographer
C&B: “Jean-Pierre, you are legendary as a luxury event photographer; how did you first start out in the business and what inspired you?”
JPU: “I remember seeing a wedding exhibition at a wedding expo, and I was amazed by the creative photos taken for couples on their wedding day. It looked so romantic and the fact that a couple could have these creative photos really intrigued me. I realized there was an opportunity to do this myself, push the limits and go even more creative. For me, it’s always been about seeing potential and having the curiosity and drive to take it to the next level. Combining this with the desire to serve clients and give them incredible photos to make their most memorable day unforgettable!”
C&B: “Had you already studied photography or worked with someone in advance to give you the confidence to branch out on your own?”
JPU: “I took a short course in photography and had experience in filmmaking; I met a wedding photographer who introduced me to wedding photography. He was the first photographer I saw making a good living from it. I did two weddings with him before deciding to go for it on my own. I’m mostly self-taught by doing my own research and also drawing inspiration from other photography genres to bring new influences into my wedding vision. For example, if I was inspired by a creative composition from a fashion photo, I would work on bringing that into my wedding coverage. Perhaps I saw some inspiring photojournalism photos; I would try that at my next wedding. And so, through focusing on various aspects over time, I developed every aspect of wedding day coverage…”
I wouldn’t say that I pursued luxury wedding photography specifically; it developed over time. The industry chose me because clients who desired my work sought me out. Pursuing excellence in imagery naturally led me to this niche. My passion for creating beautiful and meaningful images continues to drive me, and I’m constantly inspired by the potential to push creative boundaries…”
Jean-Pierre Uys, Photographer
C&B: “How many members are on your team or do you prefer to hire support when required?”
JPU: “I believe in hiring trusted top talent as freelancers; I get the privilege to work with these amazing people while also supporting their businesses. So my team is scaled per event requirements. I have two people who help me with certain aspects of postproduction and album design; I still do all the editing myself, as I believe a photo is ‘re-shot’ in the edit, bringing my vision to life in the edits…”
C&B: “Exactly – it’s so important that every element reflects your particular style. What would you say is your USP?”
JPU: “I don’t shoot for social media posts, I shoot for the couple; I capture photos that inspire and excite couples, as it opens them up to the possibility of how masterfully their day can be captured. How the emotion of moments can be caught, the beauty, the romance, the power of emotional lines, light, and intention in the capture. I bring a masterful approach to wedding photography…”
I make sure the bride and everyone else looks incredible; I know how to create the best lines…”
Jean Pierre Uys, Photographer
C&B: “How would you describe how you formulate your creative vision and what’s your approach?”
JPU: “Before we get to my creative vision, there is something more important than that, an aspect that people care about a lot: They care about how good they look in photos more than anything else. Therefore, I studied and taught myself how to make people look their best in photos. Understanding the lines of the body, what flatters and what doesn’t. Women wear dresses with open shoulders that are also tight fitting around the hips, most of the time. There is a lot that can go wrong, however the expert touch can make them look beautiful. I make sure the bride and everyone else look incredible, I know how to create the best lines. It’s all about the lines that create the beauty. Men wear suits and it’s easier, but there are also lines to a suit and the body to make them look great. Then you get to neckline and the face and the ways to reduce a double chin. Couples should NOT know how to pose, but photographers should, and it’s typically not something photographers are trained in. On the day, I give easy direction and then I can see the bride and couple starting to love it and trust me…”
“Talking about lines: lines convey emotion, and lines are powerful; think of a ballet dancer and how their body lines have the ability to move us emotionally. It’s in the body lines as well as what the face does. Yes, even the lips and especially the eyes have lines that communicate emotion. So apart from the lines to make people look great, I look to capture the lines in moments that capture the essence of those emotions. The arms, the connection of body and eyes, and I look for the crescendo. I strive to capture that level. After 20 years, I have to keep pushing myself. It’s about how I approach the day and make people feel. I am very patient on the wedding day, I direct really well, and I guide people to ensure they look their best. Additionally, I always look for something new to shoot, capturing not only the expected moments but also the in-between, unexpected ones. I aim to capture all of the above and the couple’s portraits in a very creative way that serves the narrative and in a classic, elegant style that, years from now, will remain timeless…”
C&B: “How do you balance artistic vision with client expectations in your photography?”
JPU: “Balancing artistic vision with client expectations involves discerning when to capture moments authentically, when to get creative, and when to ensure you capture all the details and client requests. Serving the client by capturing genuine moments takes precedence. There is enough time during a wedding to fulfil client needs, like specific people and so forth, and enough time to explore creative opportunities. My heart is to serve and create, ensuring that every moment is captured in the best possible way while also allowing space for artistic expression…”
C&B: “So much thought goes into it and it’s so very important for the couple to have confidence in you and to develop that essential rapport. Which are your favourite wedding destinations?”
JPU: “I have to say Europe at the moment. I have a lot of experience working in Europe, but there was a long gap of years that I didn’t. Shooting in Spain earlier this year, it reminded me how much I enjoy the change of scenery, architecture, and scenic beauty…”
C&B: “What are the challenges when you’re working? Are they limited to overseas projects or is there always something that has to be overcome?”
JPU: “I will mention that being a photographer presents two significant challenges; one challenge is during shooting and the other is with running the actual business itself. My biggest challenge in shooting would typically be lighting, specifically the available light. I use flash when necessary, but lighting can be problematic. For instance, if the bride’s room doesn’t have much natural light, it becomes a challenge. Another major challenge is the timing of the day. American weddings, with ‘first looks’ often happening in harsh midday light, create less-than-ideal lighting conditions. Receptions, though beautifully lit, doesn’t always flatter the people’s faces around the dinner tables. Despite these challenges, I enjoy working with lighting teams and finding creative solutions to ensure the best results…”
While I incorporate timeless techniques like flash photography inspired by fashion icons, I avoid fleeting trends that do not align with classic and elegant aesthetics…”
Jean-Pierre Uys, Photographer
“On the business side, generally, you get two kinds of photographers. Both are creative, but you get the artist’s right brain and then the left brain, which is more administratively inclined. So as an artist, I found the day-to-day repetitive tasks to be challenging over the years; it’s something I’ve had to work hard at to overcome – the typical artist’s distracted mind. Running the business is very task-oriented, and that can be such a challenge for the artist’s mind!”
C&B: “We can totally appreciate that! Do you ever find your work stressful – for example having short timelines on the day and then having the added expectation to provide the images quickly?”
JPU: “I don’t find my work stressful… on the wedding day itself, I come alive because I’m a ‘people person’ and I thrive on the challenges of the day. I’ve mastered certain elements and I’m confident in capturing the best angles and lighting. I stay very calm. However, the only stressful part can be if hair and makeup run late, which can compress the timeline and reduce the time for crucial shots and the bridal portraits I like to do before we get everyone else involved. In post-production, managing timelines and delivering high-quality edits promptly can be stressful, especially when juggling multiple projects; I’ve become much better at delivering the photos quicker over the years. I don’t outsource my editing, as I believe in maintaining a personal touch in all my work…”
C&B: “You definitely have a very independent approach to your business; do you ever find yourself collaborating with creative experts in a similar field to you?”
JPU: “I have ongoing relationships with planners, and particularly specific planners, that I collaborate with on weddings, birthday parties, and other client needs. I also work with nonprofits to provide content; notably, I’ve done work for Ina Garten, which is something I am very proud of…”
What sets my photography apart from others is my commitment to capturing authentic emotions and moments, combined with my creative eye. Clients hire me for this unique perspective, and I strive to deliver images that exceed their expectations while staying true to my artistic vision. By maintaining a balance between serving the client and pursuing creative excellence, I ensure my work remains relevant and inspiring. I stay inspired by studying other photography genres and incorporating new techniques that align with classic and timeless styles, rather than following fleeting trends. This commitment to excellence and constant growth helps me maintain an edge in the competitive luxury wedding market…”
Jean-Pierre Uys, Photographer
C&B: “Jean-Pierre, what would you say is your biggest accomplishment to date?”
JPU: “One of my most significant accomplishments was receiving a green card for the category ‘an alien with extraordinary ability in the arts’. This required proving that I’m part of the top one percent in my field. This rigorous process involved compiling a 400-page document demonstrating my achievements over the previous ten years, including publications, TV appearances, and media coverage; the application had to show that my work was recognised for its excellence on a worldwide stage. I’m very proud of this accomplishment, as it validated my body of work up to that point. We submitted the application, and within two weeks, I received approval, which was a significant milestone in my career…”
C&B: “How do you envision the future of luxury wedding photography, and what role do you see yourself playing in shaping that future?”
JPU: “Luxury wedding photography demands the highest level of skills. I think the future will be more high level candid moments that are more skillfully captured and more unexpected moments captured. Editorials will always remain strong and in demand, but couples will want their day told with even more candid moments and they will seek photographers who capture that at a very high level. Authenticity and realness is something that is very important for the generation now getting married. My role is to continue to showcase candid moments that are captured at a mastery level and educate clients and photographers about those possibilities. There is within all moments, the “split second magic moment”, where the composition, the lines of bodies, the eyes and the emotion is the strongest. There is an adrenaline rush when you find that and are able to capture that. It’s photography with intention, thought and that translates into images that really take people breath away. There is also a level of blowing people’s minds which is fun. They can’t understand how you are able to capture that and that for me does justice to the art of photography. To uphold its legacy and standards, to contribute to the photographers who push the limits of what’s possible…”
My advice to aspiring photographers is to become masterful and highly skilled. While building a brand and social media presence is important, nothing replaces the value of genuine expertise and the ability to deliver exceptional work. Focus on honing your craft and delivering high-quality images that resonate with clients…”
Jean-Pierre Uys, Photographer
C&B: “Can you share a moment or project that particularly defined your career and fuelled your ambition?”
JPU: “A defining moment in my career was photographing the wedding of a top event planner in South Africa, whom I admired. During his wedding, I experimented with black-and-white photography in low light, which was not common in South Africa at the time. This experimentation inspired me to seek out and capture unique black-and-white moments, developing my signature style. That project fuelled my ambition and pushed me to explore new creative possibilities…”
C&B: “Finally, Jean Pierre, what are some of your long-term goals and dreams within the wedding photography industry?”
JPU: “I’d like to work with more planners and do more destination weddings. Long-term, my goal is to sustain my passion for photography and continue to deliver exceptional work. After more than twenty years in the industry, it’s natural to need to reinvent oneself and reignite passion; I embrace this challenge and strive to keep my work fresh and inspiring…”
WEBSITE: http://www.jeanpierrecreates.com
