Blue Mountains based Damien Milan's interest for photography grew from an incessant thirst for discovering new places and cultures. He has always been fascinated by the beautiful complexity between people, emotions and places. Damien Milan regularly captures destination weddings in Europe and shoots worldwide.
Tell us about your business!
I find it extremely rewarding to be given a chance to create a connection with like minded people and build a story that truly reflects who they are in a creative way.
Where are you based?
Although I am based in the Blue Mountains, I grew up in Belgium and lived in Australia for 16 years, so I am lucky to hold both passports and travel regularly to Europe in summer for work.
How long have you been a photographer?
I’ve started documenting weddings just over ten years ago and never looked back.
What is your most memorable career moment?
Two of my images were awarded Best of the Best Wedding Photographers worldwide two consecutive years, however I do find most satisfaction in the trust and connections built with my clients over the years.
If you could describe your business in three words, what would they be?
Emotive, real and bold.
What motivates you to do what you do?
I am deeply fascinated by people and places. Photographing weddings gives me a glimpse into people’s lives for one day and allows me to capture real and honest moments while getting to know them.
What is a favourite service that you offer?
I include some 35 mm analog photography in all my packages, as I love how it puts me in a different mindset. It forces me to capture images in a more intentional way and I find the analog process very meditative. It pushes my creative boundaries and the beautiful imperfections of film suit the timeless nature of my work.
What inspires you?
I find a lot of my inspiration in nature, exploring remote locations and other art forms. Music is also a huge source of inspiration, which constantly influences my work.
How would you describe your style?
The best words to describe my work would be real, raw, timeless and cinematic.
What is your ideal work destination?
One wedding gave me the opportunity to document a story on an apple farm in a fjord in Norway. The perfect combination of cultural elements and breathtaking landscapes made for an unforgettable experience.
Who is your dream client?
My dream clients are the ones who are true to themselves and value raw and honest moments. They have hired me because they trust me to document their day in an artful way and give me full creative freedom.
If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be?
Dreamer, adventurer and authentic.
What is your favourite travel destination?
My favourite travel destinations over the past few years were Morocco, Siberia and India as I love to immerse myself in different cultural surroundings and dramatic landscapes. At the moment I am dreaming of exploring volcanic landscapes, possibly in Japan or South America.
What would you like couples to know about you?
I am married to a mural artist and we recently welcomed a little daughter into our lives who brings us so much joy and happiness.
What is your advice to couples getting married?
Don’t be afraid to strip back your wedding plans to what’s most meaningful to you. Authenticity is the key.
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