In talking with Hallie of Hallie Jade Pictures, three things are evident: she loves Vermont (she’s a relatively new resident), loves her dogs, and really loves her couples. Hallie builds true bonds with her couples (who she describes as down-to-earth and adventurous) and uses that insider intel to capture authentic moments from their wedding day. Learn more about Hallie below and check out her profile to see more of her stunning photography!
How did you get into wedding photography?
My friends in high school were GORGEOUS so we would spend weekends wandering around and doing photo shoots. That is when I discovered my love for photography. But, I did the “traditional” thing and went to college and even to graduate school for something entirely different. It wasn’t until two years into a full-time 9-5 when I discovered I really wanted to be my own boss and photography just felt like the obvious option. The rest is history!
How would you describe your photography style?
I would say that many people describe my style as “dark and moody,” however, I prefer to describe it as documentary-style with an emphasis on warm, dark tones in my editing. I think that one of the things that I am best at is capturing whatever the vibe of the couple and of the day is.
I definitely prefer to take a fly-on-the-wall approach to most of the day but will absolutely provide direction when needed and, with that direction, I do have a flare for interactive shots. I do not request shot-lists or a super-involved itinerary of the day, rather I like to simply capture whatever is organically taking place – save for the obvious family and wedding party formals.
What inspires your work?
MY COUPLES! I tend to fall head-over-heels with my couples. It’s so important to me to feel the love and respect between the couple themselves, and also between the couple and me. The beauty of their love always inspires me, without a doubt.
If you weren’t a wedding photographer what would you do?
Tough question…I feel like this job was made for me in every way. But, I am currently dabbling in flower farming – so maybe that!
Any special tips for couples for working with a wedding photographer?
Once you have determined that you like a certain photographer’s style, I like to emphasize how important it is to like your photographers personality (and for me to like yours). Photographers will be your shadow all day long at your wedding so it is important to feel comfortable with them (maybe even to feel like old pals!).
What’s your favorite moment during a wedding?
I honestly love ceremonies (especially ceremonies with tears). I always cry and the immense expression of love fills me up for hours after. Wandering around with just the couple for portraits is a very close second.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Vermont?
I am new to Vermont so still learning all of the magical things to do in this stunning state. So far, though, Lake Willoughby really knocked my socks off. We kayaked the lake this past summer and all I could think about was how badly I wanted to shoot a wedding there!
What’s a fun fact about yourself?
I am a dog mom to three dogs who are MY WORLD. Murphy, my baby boy, has been with me since my mid-twenties. He is a tripod and impresses me every day. Marnie was initially my partner’s dog and is such a perfect weirdo. Cooper was sort of an accidental adoption for us, but he is such a stud and the snuggliest boy.
What’s a song that always gets you on the dance floor?
I am a child of the 2000s so “Low” (Apple Bottom Jeans) by Flo Rida gets me every time.
Thank you, Hallie! Learn more about Vermont wedding photographer Hallie Jade Pictures in the vendor guide.
