Christopher Cook of CLC Photography

Coffee Talk with Christopher Cook of CLC Photography

Coffee Talk With Christopher L. Cook

It didn't take long for Christopher L. Cook, photographer and owner of CLC Photography, to become a successful wedding photographer. With his gift for wedding photojournalism and portraits, Christopher takes a moment in time and transforms it into a beautiful photograph to cherish for years to come. Christopher allowed us to find out more about him over a little Coffee Talk!

WC: How did you get started in photography?

CC: Photography has been a part of my life as long as I can remember. In fact, I think I got my first camera in kindergarten. Through college and afterwards I took courses geared toward the artistic side of photography. It was a creative outlet and I enjoyed creating my own black and white prints. A friend had seen some of my work and asked me to do some photographs at her wedding. So I gave it a try and really enjoyed it. I've been doing it ever since.

WC: Although your portfolio includes several types of photography (portraits and places and events), what motivated you to devote the majority of your talent and energy to wedding photography?

CC: To me, a wedding is a culmination of all these types of photography, and a photographic challenge and opportunity that I really enjoy. Working on other subjects outside of weddings allows me to explore different techniques and practice seeing things in different ways. Ultimately, it lets me find interesting approaches to weddings to keep things fresh and interesting.

WC: Do you consider yourself a traditional or photojournalistic wedding photographer?

CC: I take a definite photojournalistic approach to weddings. From the beginning of my career I naturally gravitated to looking for the small details, the natural expressions, and exploring ways to capture the mood and the atmosphere of the day. At the time I didn't realize there was such a thing as a "photojournalistic" wedding style, but I'd be shooting the same way even if it weren't as popular as it's become. I've since refined this style through studying and attending workshops with industry icons such as Denis Reggie.

WC: What are your thoughts on photojournalism vs. traditional wedding photography and which do you consider your favorite?

CC: The couples I work with generally want a few traditional photos, but they definitely share my preference for photographs that truly capture the essence of the day. I try to keep the portrait sessions quick and casual. Fifteen to 20 minutes usually covers the basic group shots. Other than this short portrait session I try to fade in to the background and just quietly observe and capture the moments that make the wedding day unique to each particular couple. This style is ideal for couples who have spent a lot of time planning their wedding day and want to relax and enjoy it.

WC: In your opinion, while planning their wedding, what can the couple do to help maximize the value of the photographer at the wedding?

CC: Meet with several photographers and decide what style you're really looking for and make sure you're comfortable with your choice. The real value of the photos is what they'll mean to you in years to come. This is why finding the style that fits you best is the most important element in the selection process.

WC: Do you photograph in color or black and white?

CC: Both. I always do at least some black & white. When I meet with the couple I ask which they're most interested in. If they prefer one over the other I'll emphasize that in my coverage, but there are some situations I think are best captured in black and white.

WC: Do you photograph outside of Missouri? The United States?

I have photographed weddings outside of Missouri, primarily in the Midwest region. I am certainly open to traveling on request, though.

Read other interviews at the Club Cafe.