Learn more about Merari Teruel, an award-winning South Florida, NYC, & destination Wedding Photographer who takes meaningful, magazine-worthy photos that will stand the test of time.
1. Tell us a little about yourself/your background and what drew you into wanting to become a wedding photographer.
"Story-telling has always been a familial trait. From journalists to teachers to writers, it feels like I was meant to tell stories as well! Wedding days are stories waiting to be told and the innate joyful nature of every wedding attracted me to the profession. Not many other jobs let you experience and retell second-hand joy every week. It's such a gift to experience and record such a happy, special moment in two families lives!"
2. How would you best describe your wedding photography style?
"It's so difficult to describe your own style so I'll cheat a bit and lean on past clients to describe it for me! My work has been described as laid-back yet intentional, romantic, classic, and a little edgy."
3. What is one thing you wish more people knew about wedding photography?
"The greatest gift our clients can give us is their trust. I'm keenly aware of the privilege of being welcomed into a very intimate, emotional weekend. Having clients' trust means we can focus on immersing ourselves into their story in order to document it in a beautiful yet authentic way."
4. How do you adapt when clients have specific visions that don't necessarily match your photography style?
"I'm very lucky to work with clients who have a clear vision for their wedding and find me because my work and approach align with their vision. Finding and trusting a wedding photographer who shares your vision is one of the most important parts of wedding planning!"
5. If there was any iconic past wedding you wish you could have photographed, which would it be?
"So many! Jackie O and JFK's wedding may be at the top. At-home weddings have a special place in my heart and their wedding was a perfect blend of a traditional church ceremony with a "party of the season" at-home reception. Also incredibly stylish and charming! Kate Moss's wedding to Jamie Hince and Solange Knowles and Alan Ferguson's wedding is tied for second for their chic, personable, and laid-back events."
6. What is one wedding memory you will always remember?
"I'm a real softie for father/daughter, mother/son moments and have been known to shed a tear or two during particularly emotional speeches or
dances."
7. What differentiates you from other businesses in the wedding photography industry?
"My biggest priority on a wedding day (besides making great photos!) is working together with a couple's planner to facilitate an amazing wedding experience for them. I'm very protective of clients' peace and their time during their wedding weekend because when people are relaxed, having fun, and letting go of any stressors, it allows us to be creative in a more authentic way. Fun, joyful, care-free energy from a couple always translates into fun, joyful, care-free photos."
8. What are the long-term goals you have for your business?
"I've been so lucky to consistently work with couples and wedding planners who are kind, fun, and highly prioritize creating a wonderful weekend-long experience for everyone. I hope to continue working with a limited number of clients who connect with my work and whom I can invest a lot of time and care into. I'm also very excited to continue working in South Florida, New York, and Latin America!"
9. How do you incorporate a couple's personality into the photos you take?
"My clients and I meet a few weeks before their wedding to go over, among other things, how they'd like to feel during their wedding weekend. Some couples want a very relaxed, pulled-back approach while others want more guidance. Some are extroverted "life of the party" types while others prefer not to be the center of attention as much as possible. I love creating a personalized approach to every couple to make sure my team and I honor their wishes and their personalities."
10. Is there anything else you would like to share?
"Wedding photos are not just photos, they're heirlooms. A priceless gift passed on from generation to generation. I'm so incredibly grateful to
all the couples who have entrusted me to safe-keep their family heirlooms through my
photographs. It's an honor!"
You can find more of Merari's work on her Instagram @merariteruelphoto or on her website: https://merari.com/