Today we’d like to introduce you to Corinne Hersha.
Hi Corinne, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I actually started off photographing big traditional weddings! Over time though, I noticed a pattern. So many couples had family drama, stress about wedding expenses and planning, or just hated being the center of attention, and would end up saying they couldn’t wait to get the wedding over with. Rather than a celebration of their love and fun experience, it would become a performance that caused anxiety.
When COVID hit in 2020, many of my couples pivoted to eloping instead, and the difference was like night and day! Instead of feeling overwhelmed, they were having a blast together, whether that be hiking, having a sunset picnic, a bonfire with smores, or a first dance under the stars. Instead of following a set timeline for the day, they were able to have unique and fun experiences that felt true to them, without the stress and anxiety. I fell in love with elopements then and there and started focusing primarily on non-traditional wedding experiences.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has certainly been a bumpy road at times! I think we’ve seen a shift in the wedding industry in the last decade or so, where couples are focusing more on what truly matters to them rather than what is expected, so that has been really beautiful to see. It can be a challenge to be an elopement photographer based in the Midwest and not having destination locations like Sedona or Yosemite around. A lot of people assume there is only corn in Indiana, but the beauty of the Midwest is that there is SO much diverse landscape and scenery. Turkey Run looks like you stepped into Lord of the Rings, the dunes feel like visiting the ocean, there are so many hidden waterfalls, and many of these locations are much more private as well. The flip side of this challenge is that it is so fun and special to help find hidden gems of locations to elope or get married at!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an elopement and non-traditional wedding photographer based in the Midwest, and specialize in crafting and documenting unique wedding experiences! What sets me apart from others is that I help craft a wedding experience that feels true to your relationship, and plan experiences that make each wedding a one of a kind day. Most weddings follow a set structure for the day, and that just doesn’t work for everyone. Being an introvert myself, I totally understand having a ton of people watch you, especially during emotional moments, can be very anxiety inducing. And for some, the idea of running around all day and socializing in a formal way sounds exhausting! So I pride myself on helping my couples every step of the way, to craft a day that celebrates them as authentically as possible. For some that could mean having a day just the two of them, then a party with friends later down the road (which keeps the celebration going too!) or for some it could mean having part of the day just to themselves, and then an evening dinner and dance party with their closest people. The beauty of eloping is that there are no rules, you can do whatever you want!
In the same vein of being an introvert, I completely understand feeling awkward in front of a camera too. (Because who ever knows where to put their hands??) So instead of stiff posing, I use natural prompts with lots of movement, and keep your focus on each other instead of the camera. I also play music my couples like to help set the vibes and make it fun too! Making sure you are relaxed and enjoying your time together is the key getting candid, romantic photos that allow your personalities to shine through. I also strive to document memories in a cinematic way that feels like movie stills when looking back on your photos. I adore playing with light and shadows, and love a good moody blue hour with lanterns or a bonfire.
I also specialize in creating GIFs as well as photography! I started experimenting with making GIFs by taking a burst of photos, then stitching them all together to create a 10-15 second video. Now it is one of my absolute favorite things that I include in all my galleries! Being able to capture little moments throughout the day, like the groom wiping a tear, or the first toast with family and friends is truly so special. It’s a nice way to relive the little moments outside of just a photo.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Storytelling has always had my heart. Whether that be through photography, art, or writing, the human experience is so beautiful to me! Each person is a kaleidoscope of experiences and personality, and it is truly such an honor to document special memories and experiences. Love is a universal language, and there’s nothing like capturing love expressed through the fleeting moments. Whether that be a squeeze of a hand, the brush of a tear, the belly laughing, or dancing without a care in the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sparrowsongcollective.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparrowsongcollective
