Based in Columbus, Ohio photographer Emily Barbarita has been capturing weddings for seven years and describes her style as intentional, inviting and timeless. We recently sat down with Emily to learn more about her beautiful photography business.
Tell us about your work!
Photography has always been one of my greatest loves. My fondest memories are sitting on my grandpas lap and looking at photographs from our family get togethers and his time serving in WWII. He never talked about the war, but the photos were enough to tell a story. So from a young age, photos were always so sentimental and precious to me. This understanding is the core of everything I create.
I had no idea it was a passion I could turn into a career. That was until one of my friends invited me to help her photograph a wedding 7 years ago. I instantly fell in love and knew this was something I needed to pursue.
My business has seen many changes throughout that time, but what’s stated consistent is my why. I shoot with the granddaughter in mind who will be sitting on her grandpas lap one day, looking at his wedding photo album. To be invited into that story will always be the greatest honor.
If you could describe your business in 3 words, what would they be?
Intentional - It is always my intention that my couples feel safe, seen and valued.
Truthful - I value authenticity and want my work and my relationships with my subjects to reflect that. Transparency is what allows both me and my couples to create the most honest photographs.
Evolving- I think as an artist I should always be open to evolution, growth and change. I want my work to remain timeless with a modern touch.
What would you like couples to know about you?
My mission is to serve you by telling the most honest story of your day. More than anything, I want you to feel seen, safe and loved. Your story is so previous to me and its always the greatest honor to step into each unique one.
What motivates you to do what you do?
My subjects motivate me. I think of their children and grandchildren looking at the photographs I’ve created to tell their story as authentically as possible. Photographs are so precious because they are memories frozen in time, and it’s so beautiful to know that generation after generation can take part in experiencing these memories together. I want my subjects to be known through their photos.
What is your favourite service that you offer and why?
Wedding photography will always be my favorite service I offer. I’m a hopeless romantic and a truth teller, and I think weddings give me the opportunity to indulge in both.
What is your ideal work destination?
I would love to shoot a wedding in Paris.
What is your favourite travel destination?
My family is Italian, so Italy will always be my favorite place to travel. Nothing beats the food, scenery, and the people.
Who is your dream client?
I produce my best work with couples who let me into their story with open, kind, and genuine hearts.
What is your most memorable career moment?
When I booked my first international wedding in Italy. It was with a dream couple and two of my best friends shot alongside me.
What is your advice to couples getting married?
Breathe deep, don’t rush. Step away from your guests and vendors to just be together. Your day shouldn’t be about the photos or rituals. Remember what truly matters and focus on that.
Also, incorporate things that you already to do bring you joy. For example if you like to get coffee or take walks together, maybe include that in your morning. You don't have to stick to traditions, your day is what you decide.
