Vendors I Love: JC LEMON PHOTOGRAPHY
photo by Justin McCallum
I’ve known Jon for many years. Our paths continually crossed, which speaks to the interconnectedness in the New York wedding & elopement community. I’ve always loved his positive attitude and genuine presence. Jon has an amazing eye for light and color, knows just how to capture a perfect moment. I am super excited to spotlight photographer and photo booth guru, JON LEMON from JC LEMON PHOTOGRAPHY!
What was the path that led you to become a photographer?
I got my first camera back in high school, and started learning film photography as a hobby. I took a semester off at the start of college to take a formal B&W photography class -- darkroom and all -- but then went off to college to study Computer Science. After graduating I started a job on Wall Street and a few years in, the 2008 crisis hit. I started to pick up my camera more and more, and then in 2010 I had the opportunity to assist at a wedding. From there I quickly worked to make photography a part-time business and in 2011 I was able to launch my business full time.
What excites you about weddings?
The realness! My photography style leans heavily on letting couples plan their own perfect day. The photography then builds on the experience they're creating. I spend most of the day artfully capturing candid moments as they naturally unfold, so I'm always on the hunt for those moments and interactions that are unfolding. I step in and take a light hand for portraits, letting a couple's natural energy shine.
What do you look for in a couple?
Couples keeping it real. As long as a couple knows their priorities -- like, I want to hit cocktail hour, let's have photos unfold to make that happen -- we can still create magic without sacrificing parts of the day. If you want to spend two hours exploring the Lower East Side for awesome street portraits, I got you.
What is the greatest compliment you’ve ever received?
"Oh, I didn't even know you were there!" Haha, I'm half joking! But blending in is a real key to capturing real moments.
What do you desire for your business?
To keep thriving as a boutique wedding photography studio! Clients always interact with me directly, I'm always the primary photographer. I hand edit all of their photos, and help them design their wedding albums and wall art. I love providing that experience to as many couples as possible every year.
What are you grateful for?
All of the connections and relationships in the NYC elopement industry. We're a niche within a niche so it's great to have a healthy pool of awesome vendors servicing the same types of clients and helping people create amazing weddings in new ways.
Any recent cause for celebration or a recent victory?
I’ve recently marked 450 weddings and 12 years in business, which is incredible to think about. That’s a lot of laughs, toasts, tears, kisses, dips, spins, high fives, sultry smolders, crazy dance moves, and other amazing moments I’ve witnessed and captured!
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