Terra Cooper is a Salt Lake City photographer specializing in weddings. Terra's style is playful and fun, with a Bohemian chic style and a fiery personality. We asked Terra to talk to us about her recent fire and ice themed bridal shoot and give us some insight into her process.
Tell us a little bit about the shoot and where you found your inspiration.
I saw the ice sculptures in Heber, UT and wanted to do a really stylized shoot there. I love the intensity behind a Fire and Ice concept, so Hannah Goodrich, my make up and hair stylist, and I came up with the concept, found the perfect models, some gorgeous dresses, and even had two gorgeous bouquets made for the shoot. I love using local vendors in my inspiration shoots because Utah has the best wedding vendors, and there is really so much talent out there that a lot of people don't get to see much.
What were your main goals for the shoot?
I love doing inspiration shoots because it is a time where I can do what I want to do and just have a lot of fun. I think it is important as an artist/photographer to take time to do projects that are just for you sometimes to keep your ideas fresh.
What gear did you use?
I used my Canon 5D Mark II, my 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, and my 50mm f/1.2 lens. I also took advantage of the VERY bright mid-day sun and used my reflector a lot to create some dramatic lighting.
Any tips for wedding photographers wanting to branch out from the norm?
Make friends with local vendors and create an inspiration shoot that everyone can showcase their work in the way that they love instead of what the client wants. Then you are more likely to book clients that like the work that you love to create. Take chances, try things that you wouldn't normally do and you may be really happy you did!
What is your favorite part about what you do?
I am a people person and love to meet new people, so I love getting to know my couples and their families. Many of them have turned into dear friends. I love spending many of my working days on people's happiest day of their lives. I love coming up with concepts and ideas to make each couple's wedding showcase their personality and style. I love just having a great adventures with my clients, and we just happen to get some great pictures along the way.
The make up and hair was done by Hannah Goodrich. The gorgeous gowns were provided by Janet at Danielle’s Bridal. The beautiful bouquets were done by Emily at Bloomstreet Floral. We were able to do the shoot near the Zermatt Resort and they were so kind to let us change and do hair/make-up in one of their gorgeous rooms. I had two great models, Navy Allsop and Natalie Brockbank and they were such troopers in the cold!