WEDDINC:  First of all thank you so much for agreeing to an interview with Weddinc. We absolutely LOVE Astrophotography and everything about it.  We’re here today with Robert Paetz, Astrophotographer with Robert Paetz Photography.

Let’s start with a little about you.  How did you get into Astrophotography originally and have you always been interested in the cosmos?

ROBERT:  I didn’t have a particular interest in the cosmos, but growing up, there were lots of camping trips with my family, and I have always enjoyed the outdoors. I love the feeling of awe and wonder when I look up into a dark sky full of stars.

The very first Astro-session I ever shot was in 2012 when Felicia (my wife and partner, who was shooting with me at the time) told me that a client wanted to their engagement session in Joshua Tree in the middle of August. The thought of being out in the 110 degree heat made her ask, “Can’t we just shoot at night?!”

Then I sat there and thought about it for a second, and said “Wait… maybe we can…”

I had been already been reading a lot about Astrophotography by then and was proficient with off camera lighting. Giving it some thought suddenly made things click in my brain that it might just work.

We are thankful to that first adventurous couple who took a risk on us when we told them to meet us by the vending machine at a desert motel at 2am and let us drive them into the darkness of Joshua Tree.

WEDDINC:  Did you stumble upon shooting the Milky Way in the background of one of your shoots or did you set out to shoot it?

ROBERT:  At the beginning I wasn’t too aware of celestial movements. During the second shoot we did in Death Valley, the Milky Way rose over the background by glorious happenstance. Since then, I have taken time to learn a bit more about it and use an app called PhotoPills to help me track these.

WEDDINC:  What are the challenges you face when shooting the Milky Way or a star-lit night in a photo?

ROBERT:  They do involve a bit of planning as these can only be shot a few days before or a few days after a new moon and it needs to be photographed at least 100 miles from a major city to avoid light pollution ruining our view of the night skies. Secondly you need to worry about weather, that’s why the desert works the best: rain clouds blocking out the skies can be a real downer after everyone went to great distances to get out under the stars.

Most importantly though, it’s about having amazing clients who will follow any crazy idea you may have, even when it comes to standing in the freezing desert wind in complete darkness while I rush around adjusting lighting, camera placement and a number of other technical things. I couldn’t do any of this without the trust of my clients.

WEDDINC:  How many times have you been able to capture a ‘lucky’ shooting star as in the photo above?  Would you say the couples in your photos with a shooting star have had any significant “luck” after the shoot?

ROBERT:  Surprisingly, shooting stars actually aren’t as rare as I once thought. I think almost all the couples that have been out under the stars have seen at least a few. That said, the shooting stars work on their own schedule so it’s more sheer luck for one to end up in an image.

WEDDINC:  How often do you get requests for Astrophotography and what’s your favorite location for a shoot?

ROBERT:  I get many of requests from couples interested in the process of making this happen, but once I educate people on the distance, scheduling restrictions, time and effort it will take for these images to happen (because of the many factors described above) it narrows it down to the most adventurous couples that end up under the skies with me. I don’t set a limit, but I shoot about 6 of these sessions a year. I do not have a favorite spot, because I am always on the look out for new locations, but most of the time I shoot in Death Valley or Joshua Tree.

WEDDINC:  What is a Meteor Shower?

ROBERT:  “A meteor shower is a celestial event in which a number of meteors are observed to radiate, or originate, from one point in the night sky. These meteors are caused by streams of cosmic debris called meteoroids entering Earth’s atmosphere at extremely high speeds on parallel trajectories.”

I borrowed that from Wikipedia, but essentially a meteor shower is LOTS of shooting star burning through the atmosphere in a short period of time. I’ve never photographed one, but I did spend a few hours watching the Perseids shower with my nieces who were equally spellbound.

The Perseids shower is the most regular and happens from mid July to mid August each year and I would be thrilled if someone want’s to schedule a shoot around then in 2017!

WEDDINC:  For our photographer enthusiasts out there, what are some of the techniques you use to capture such beautiful skies?

ROBERT: First and most importantly, check on the moon; before you get into anything else you want to make sure the moon is not in the sky before you set out to photograph the stars, otherwise you (and your camera) just won’t see all that much. Next, bring a flashlight, coat, food, extra water (and maybe a couple beers if you’re not working) – the Eagle Scout in me always tries to focus on the essentials and safety first.

Once you are sure you are not going to get lost in the dark without any light or supplies, then remember to bring your tripod. From there, there are literally hundreds of online articles which would describe step-by-step processes to create amazing nighttime images.

One of my favorite articles is at Luminous Landscape, which covers most of the basics of Astrophotography (https://luminous-landscape.com/landscape-astrophotography)

WEDDINC:  If couples are nervous about doing the shoot what is your one trick to make them feel at ease in front of the camera?

ROBERT:  For my photography sessions I put the emphasis on having fun and relaxing. I carry on conversations while we shoot and do my best to keep things light-hearted. Most people are worried that they won’t know how to pose or how to be a model, but I always let them know that I will take care of all those details and they just need to focus on their partner.

WEDDINC:  What other types of photography do you do besides wedding photography and Astrophotography?

ROBERT:  Before I became seriously involved in wedding photography in 2010 I spent about 3 years traveling the globe and taking pictures. I’ve visited approximately 60 countries and I am currently planning to spend 5 weeks in Myanmar and Southeast Asia over the holidays and throughout January. My biggest regret about life in general is that there will never be enough time to see everything, and more importantly, try all the world’s food.

WEDDINC:  Have you been able to shoot the Aurora Borealis?

ROBERT:  I haven’t made it that far north in the middle of winter just yet, but if anyone out there is looking for an epic adventure, I am totally game to head for Iceland, Norway, Alaska, Finland or anywhere else near the Arctic Circle and create some astounding Aurora Borealis images for you.

WEDDINC:  Is there one shoot or one photograph that you are especially proud of?

ROBERT:  Photography for me is about constant growth and new challenges. Every time I reach an accomplishment or discover something new in my photography I try to raise the bar for myself. Sure, there are a couple images that gets me super excited about some aspect of photography, but they are not seen as an end point, more likely they are the beginning of something new that I can build on. When I look back over the millions of pictures I have taken over the last 12 years, it’s the images I didn’t create that keep pushing me onward.

WEDDINC:  What is next for you career wise?

ROBERT:  In 2017 I still plan to photograph weddings, but I also plan on shifting the direction of my photography career to include more travel images as well as documentation of various NGOs and volunteer causes around the world.  As I get older I am looking to find ways to give back and telling worthwhile stories through photography seems the obvious way for me contribute.  My goal is to start creating some unique images for great causes and projects that could be used to show the fascinating work being done, as well as to create striking visuals to raise awareness and much-needed funds.

If you would like to inquire about a photoshoot or would just like to reach out and chat with a really neat guy, please contact Robert Paetz at www.RobertPaetz.com

1. Say Yes to the Boho Dress

You won’t find many ball gowns around here! Boho brides are most often seen donning a relaxed, A-line dress. Relaxed and casual? Yes. Boring? No. Boho gowns feature gorgeous and unique details inspired by 70s’ fashion. More on the evolution of bridal style here.

A few of our favorite gowns with some serious boho vibes…

2. Top it Off

While a beautiful flower crown is an obvious choice, it’s not the only choice! Top off your wedding day digs with a gorgeous lace veil for a 70s’ chic look. Pop in a beaded hair piece for a more glamorous boho look. If you do go for the tried and true flower crown, it’s best to have your florist create it with fresh flowers that coordinate with your other flowers.

A few fab boho bridal headpieces…

3. You Are Cordially Invited

Your invites will be your guest’s first peak at the relaxed vibe of your bohemian wedding. Invitation wording can be so stuffy! All those rules about how to address whom and where? You can throw those out the window in lieu of wording that is meaningful to you and your family. From rustic to romantic and everything in between, you’re sure to find an invitation design that wows everyone on your guest list.

Very different (and very beautiful) takes on boho invites…

4. Not the Dress

It’s not the dress, but it’s a dress more important than many dresses you’ll wear in your life. Lifelong memories, remember? A little white dress is maybe the easiest clothing item to find, but no, not all white lace dresses are created equal! When shopping for this dress, look for unique designs and details.

Speaking of white lace dresses with unique details…

5. Mixing and Matching

Dressing the dudes isn’t always simple. Just like your bridesmaids, they’re likely going to have different body shapes and style preferences. This is where a bohemian wedding is. the. best. The undone look of mix and match styles in a similar color palette really suits the free-spirited, laid back vibe of a bohemian wedding.

Pick and choose from unique accessories like these…

6. Decor and More

An outdoor wedding really plays well with the woodsy, romantic vibe of a boho wedding. The beautiful nature will add more to your decor than any amount of tulle ever could! One thing you will need — heaps of flowers. Wildflowers with lots of greenery will mesh well with the surrounding nature. Other than that? Feel free to add fun vintage touches like macrame wall hangings, suitcases, rugs, or even dream catchers!

Vintage touches you just don’t see every day…

7. The Perfect Place

While an outdoor venue is a beautiful option, it’s not your only option. Wherever you live, try thinking outside of the box when searching for the perfect place to to tie the knot. With enough space and the right rentals, any location can serve as a wedding venue. For example; an old theatre, your grandma’s back yard, an old warehouse, a museum, a library or even a greenhouse.

In case you can’t quite imagine these unique venues…

8. Gowns for Your Girls

You didn’t think we forgot about your #bridesquad, did you? Your ladies will love that you’re having a boho wedding. You could pick one gorgeous gown with a boho feel or just give your girls a color scheme to stay within and set them free in Free People! Result? A deconstruct look and happy pals!

Get inspired by a few of our favorites…

9. Aesthetic Goals

Yes, even your cake can be boho. Aesthetic goals. Leave the icing florets at the bakery — boho cakes are simple and romantic. Details like flowers and cake stands will add something special to your delicious dessert. More “naked” cakes here.

Three variations on a simple and romantic cake…

10. Kiddie Approved

Can’t forget the little ones! We’re quite positive the children in your wedding will approve of the laid back vibe of your boho wedding. There are so many cute touches you can add here and they will eat. it. up. Click here for even more inspiration for the little ones.

Three different takes on boho style for the little ones…

Dreaming of a bohemian wedding yet? Yea, we thought so! What aspect sold you? The decor? Venues? Clothing? Let us know in the comments!

Martinez, who has shot all over North America, says nothing compares to Alaska. After seeing the Glacier Bride photos, we have to agree! A talented and innovative photographer alone wasn’t enough to make this shoot work though, the bride and groom Martinez worked with were willing to do anything to get the perfect shot!

As you saw in the video above, in order to access the gorgeous glacier, Martinez and the couple traveled via helicopter. Here, the couple was caught smooching near their chariot! If you think this view is something, what came next will knock your socks off.

Did we mention the couple was willing to do anything for the perfect shot? That included wading around in glacier water in their wedding attire. What we don’t know is how they gained the super human strength to look so serene in this photo. What we do know is that the work was worth it!

The beautiful bride sacrificed not just her comfort, but her dress! Result? One of the most breathtaking Trash the Dress photos of all time. The contrast of the stark blue water and her gorgeous white gown is breathtaking. What Martinez has never told anyone is that he used only natural light for the whole shoot. He had brought ample Profoto lighting, but decided to nix it at the last second.

Have these images convinced you to go for adventurous wedding photos? Can’t blame you there! Here’s what Martinez has to say to couples looking to get bold and beautiful wedding photos; “Prioritize your day. You can’t balance your way into epic photography. It has to be one of the top priorities for you and the wedding day. Find a photographer who will push your limits and reward you with something truly remarkable.”

Knowing Martinez lives for adventure and excitement, it was no surprise to us that his favorite part of shooting a wedding is the emotion, drama and suspense of the whole day. With all the distractions of a wedding, it can be easy to bottle up all your emotions. Those emotions tend to pour out when a photographer steals the couple away for a few quiet moments of photography, resulting in intimate photos like the one above! 

When it comes to his own relationship, it sounds like Martinez and his wife are picture perfect together! As far as adventures go, Martinez says “If the day ends with a glass of wine or a morning at the spa, she’s in!” Sounds like our kind of girl. The couple now lives in Nashville, Tennessee where they are raising their four children.

Learn more about Josh Martinez.

Keep up with Martinez’s latest adventures.

Hire Martinez for your wedding day.