Vendor Feature Friday: Naomi Chokr Photography

Naomi Chokr of Naomi Chokr Photography. Image by Matthew Holler.

Today we are very excited to feature our dear friend and wedding photographer, Naomi Chokr of Naomi Chokr Photography. Naomi’s eye for detail and use of light produces some of the most gorgeous images we have seen. She has quickly become one of Sarasota’s most in-demand photographers and even shot Fondren’s San Francisco destination wedding! Naomi is the kind of vendor that other wedding professionals DREAM of working with. Her sense of humor, kindness and infectious laughter make the day so much more enjoyable. Not only is Naomi amazing with the camera, but she has such a great nature about her, which puts clients and colleagues at ease while shooting. We sat down with Naomi to chat about her photography style, what inspires her, her adorable pup Aoki and more. Head on over to http://www.NaomiChokr.com to see more of her work!

-Tell us a little about yourself…how did you decide to become a professional photographer?

I’ve always been in the Marketing & Research field since graduating from college.  I was also a Diamond Grader for a few years and also a Graduate Gemologist.  Needless to say, I’m a very analytical person. I never really thought I had any kind of artistic abilities.  But I always knew that someway or somehow I would own a business one day. I just never thought I would own a wedding photography business.  That definitely came out of left field.  But in 2011, shortly after I purchased my first Nikon camera, I made the decision to quit my longtime corporate research job in order to pursue my dream of being a photographer. I officially started my business in January of 12 – and I’m proud to say I’ve never once looked back

-Where do you draw inspiration from?

Fashion!  I have always loved fashion and Haute Couture gowns ever since I can remember. I absolutely love the drama and edgy style of Alexander McQueen, the elegant & feminine pieces of Valentino, Elie Saab, Chanel and Dior.  Their runway, websites, magazine ads and fashion spreads help me when I capture my clients on their wedding day.  Even for the groom… I’m a huge fan of Tom Ford and I regularly draw inspiration from his work. Recently, I’ve also been drawing inspiration from photographers outside of the wedding industry. It has definitely been helping with my work and being able to offer a variety of images for my clients.

-What is your favorite part about shooting a wedding?

The emotions of the day! This is the main reason I chose to be a wedding photographer and what drew me to weddings. I just love the raw emotions that happen between family & friends during the getting ready, ceremony, reception and everything in between. It definitely tugs at my heart strings, gives me goose bumps and keeps me going. I love it and it’s such an honor for me to witness this.

-What do you consider the MUST have shots for a bride?

My must shots definitely include family & bridal party portraits.  All of my clients always say they they don’t want the “posed” images. But in the end, I find that most if not all of my clients love the formal portraits they take with their family.  My other must shots are definitely the “candid” images that are photojournalistic by nature. I love those moments…the emotions that happen in just a split second. Definitely find a photographer that you love and can capture your day exactly if not better than you remember it to be.

-What tips do you have for a bride to look and feel her best during her wedding photos?

Don’t hold anything back especially your emotions. Let it be! Also, everything will fall in its place. The day goes by so fast…enjoy every minute of it. Don’t stress… you hire professionals to make your day perfect and it will be.

-What qualities do you possess that enable you to work well with brides and grooms?

One thing I pride myself with, is somehow I always end up friends with my clients afterwards. It’s not intentional but it just happens. This is how I approach my relationship with all of my clients. I’m very laid back, easy going, friendly, approachable and fun. I treat them all with respect and kindness, just like I would my best friends. Ultimately, my ideal client is someone I’d love to have a meal with and enjoy a few laughs with as well. I’ve been very lucky thus far and have had the best clients I proudly now call my friends.

-How do you describe your style?

First and foremost my style revolves around light. I can’t do what I do without it. Whether it be natural light or off camera light…my images all begin with this and it most certainly defines my style. I love describing my work as timeless, elegant and bold. I want all of my images to stand the test of time and trends. When I shoot portraits my approach is very simple… I don’t pose my clients. I place them in an area with amazing light and simply let them be. I want my images to be about my clients and then its my job to capture them, show their personalities and make it a beautiful image.

-What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Oh I love my free time.  The little that I do have I love spending it with my friends who are my rock, my support system and who I consider as family.  I love to eat so I take them along with me to find amazing and unique restaurants in town. I’m a big TV and movie junkie too… so hanging at home on my couch with my Boston Terrier Aoki is my favorite thing to do.