I first became interested in photography over 20 years ago, while traveling the country in the Broadway touring company of 42nd Street. Growing up the son of a dance teacher, my first love was tap dancing, but my second love quickly became photography. At about the same time, I met my third love, Rosie (don’t tell her that she was the third love), who convinced me to go back to school for photography as a second career. In 2006, I graduated in the top 10% of my class from Hallmark Institute of Photography, moved to Saratoga Springs, NY and opened the studio. I married Rosie (still gorgeous) and we now have three wonderful children – depending on the day. As of last year, I’ve now worked in 48 of the 50 states. So if anyone getting married in North Dakota or Hawaii, I REALLY want to hear from you!
Rob Spring – owner, lead photographer
Q & A
Why do you love photographing weddings?
I’m a total romantic and I love beautiful things. Ask my wife. I’m fairly certain that I’m living in a romantic comedy at all times. In pretty much every other aspect of photography, I (the photographer) have to manufacture a smile on the client, try to come up with a way to make them smile or ask them to do something. At a wedding, I get to stand back and let you do your thing. It’s my job to make sure I don’t miss it!
What’s your favorite part of the wedding day?
Definitely the bridal prep / getting ready. It was the favorite part of my own wedding day, because, as the groom, I didn’t get to see all of those special moments between my wife, her mother, her grandmother, her sister, my mother, my sister, my grandmother… I’m going to make myself tear up. Don’t get me wrong, I love the big moments like the walks down the aisle and the first kiss, but the anticipation and excitement of “we’re about to get married,” is such a unique part of the day to witness. Oh, and when everyone gets insane on the dance floor. (PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE toss someone in the air, that’s another personal favorite).
What’s one piece of advice you would give couples on their wedding day?
Take what the day gives you. Don’t get your sights set on anything TOO specific or trying to copy someone else’s wedding day. If the day gives you a great sunset, get out there and shoot it. If the day gives you an insane dance party, get yourselves on the dance floor. If the wind is blowing 30mph, let the veil fly. If it’s cold outside, stay inside and cuddle up close for some romantic shots by the fire. I hate to see things ruined by couples that have their hearts set on a photo or location that is dependent on elements out of their control (like weather). Basically, show up and say yes, it will be the best day of your lives.
What is something you love to photograph besides weddings?
I used to love photographing landscapes and epic scenery, but these days, I really just love snapping candids of our kids playing in the side yard or most anything else with people. Connecting with people and capturing a happy memory is so much more fulfilling that photographing an inanimate object.
WAIT WHAT?
Here are the things you REALLY wanted to know about Rob…
I once learned to climb silks from a Cirque du Soleil gymnast.
I’ve had my face on a billboard in Los Angeles and on the side of a bus in Seattle. I was wearing a gold sequin suit made of money.
I built my own studio with my father and a studio for my wife. Complete with radiant floor heat and surround sound.
I was Glens Falls High School class of 1997 Valedictorian.
Cilantro tastes like soap to me. I have those taste buds.
