Whenever Garren’s name pops up on my Instagram feed, I’m going to smile – guaranteed (see what I did there?). Inspired by his fun, fearless couples, GarrenTee Photography specializes in wedding photography that is bold and evocative. Curious about the business name? That’s inspired by Garren’s other passion: golf. Read on to learn more about this Vermont wedding photographer!
How did you get into the wedding industry?
I stumbled into photography back in 2003 when I bought my first digital camera for a trip to Indonesia. I fell in love with photography on that trip, and immersed myself in learning all I could about it. I met a wedding photographer in 2005, and he took me under his wing. I worked with him for 2 years and then started my own business in 2007.
How would you describe your style?
I always tell my clients that I have a hybrid style. I shoot documentary style for most of the day but love including big giant landscape portraits and cinematic edits. So in short, I do a little bit of everything!
What inspires your work?
I’m inspired by a lot of things! Mostly documentary style photography from other photographers such a Two Mann studios, Cafa Lui and Victor Lax. I take a lot of inspiration from our home state of Vermont. It’s such an amazing canvas to create big bold landscape portraits. I always love including my couples into that canvas! We live in such an amazing place, it’s hard to not be inspired by it.
Any special tips for couples?
I think one of the most important parts of choosing your wedding photographer is to make sure you click with them and their personality. You’re going to spend tons of time with them and if you get along it always comes out in the pictures!
Secondly, ask for a full gallery so you know their “whole” style. It’s easy for photographers to post the best of the best on Instagram.
Lastly, make sure you communicate to your photographer what you like! Share images from their portfolio with them that speak to you. We might not recreate those exactly but we love to have ideas on what you like so we can create something similar in our own style!
What’s your favorite moment during a wedding?
Oh man this is hard, so many moments are so much fun. I particularly love when I get 20-30 minutes with my couple to create amazing portraits. I also love heartfelt moments, like the post ceremony hugs and emotions, a couples’ first look, a bride’s mom seeing her in her dress for the first time, etc.
What’s your favorite thing to do in VT? / Local spot to visit? Etc.
I’m a big golfer and play all over. My wife and I also love to get in the car and drive around Vermont – you may get lost, but you’ll never really be lots! I’ve also stumbled upon some of my favorite engagement spots by exploring the state in the car.
We love Worthy Kitchen in Woodstock, Hops on the Hill in Killington, and spending time at our home golf club, Rutland Country Club.
If you had to choose another career, what would it be?
I grew up in the restaurant business so most likely still bartending somewhere warm!
What’s a fun fact about yourself?
Like I said, I’m a big golfer and I play competitive amateur golf all over the US. I’ve won 6 state amateur titles!
What’s a song that always gets you on the dance floor?
I’m usually on the dance floor from the start of dancing till we leave. I’m a huge 80/90’s hip hop guy so anything old school hip hop will get me going! There’s nothing I love more than an amazing, wild dance party at a wedding…love to get in the mix!
Thank you, Garren! Learn more about GarrenTee Photography in the vendor guide.
