West Michigan- based photographer Justine Montigny enjoys working in an unobtrusive way with couples of all backgrounds, who aren’t afraid to take creative risks. With a discerning eye for light and composition, Justine Montigny loves to capture natural moments as they unfold.
Tell us about your business!
Since 2014, I have collaborated with and photographed over 250 lovely, kind and unique couples at home and abroad, and am always looking forward to connecting and celebrating with people of all backgrounds. My work is characterized by a snapshot-like aesthetic, shooting quickly and from the hip, with a discerning eye for light, composition and the heart of a moment.
Where are you based?
West Michigan, USA - about forty minutes away from dreamy Lake Michigan.
Do you travel for weddings?
Often! I do a lot of domestic travel around the states coast-to-coast and would love to do more international work.
What inspires you?
Living in a place that has four seasons, I go on outdoor walks every day regardless of the weather. This often puts me back into my body and into a creative mood.
What motivates you to be a photographer?
My parents received a lot of candid imagery on medium format of their wedding, and the handful of posed portraits were so relaxed that my dad is goofing off in most of them. I have four sisters and I can see all of us in both of my parent’s expressions even though half of us didn’t even exist yet, and this is priceless for me. This is how I want my coverage to age over time, and this motivates me to always remain curious, to never force anything and to keep my hands off.
How would you describe your working style?
I come prepared by having clear, effective communication with my clients, which allows me to be relaxed and adaptive. You will never see me stressed at a wedding.
Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?
I shoot primarily digital for the whole day and shoot a couple of rolls of 35mm on a point and shoot and a roll or two on 120 with my plastic Holga - two cameras that are a little unpredictable, prone to light leaks and scream “film.” I love the juxtaposition of digital files against film scans.
Do you have custom packages according to individual needs?
I have a one page info sheet that I send out that is really easy to digest quickly - it has three collections based off of coverage time that fit most needs. Engagement portraits, welcome dinner coverage, art books are a la carte. If I’m being presented with a gathering that doesn’t quite fit what is on the info sheet, I work with the couple to create something custom that aligns with individual needs.
Where would you love to travel for work?
Truly, anywhere. I can’t pinpoint an exact place on a map because I want to go everywhere. Above anything, I appreciate any space that the couple feels deeply connected to - it seems to heighten the sentimentality and archival significance of every photo.
Who is your dream client?
My dream clients are unabashedly themselves, aren’t afraid to take creative risks and trust their vendor teams.
What is your advice to couples getting married?
You’re spending a lot of money on what is likely going to be the greatest party of your life, so do what feels good and disregard the rest.
