Diera Bachir was not always a photographer. In her early years, she worked in a TV station, and ran her own F&B business before her transition into the world behind the lens. We speak with her and find out what it takes to be a successful wedding photographer, and how to deal with the unexpected when shooting overseas.

EOS 5D Mark III, EF24-70mm f/2.8L USM lens, f/10, 24mm, 1/160sec, ISO100
Moroccan vibe in Nikko Beach, Bali. No need to go to Dubai, we have it right here!

What is the difference between wedding photography back in the day and now?

Back in the day, the bride and groom only had a basic routine which they followed closely. Wedding organisers or even the brides are now more creative and have lots of new ideas to make the event look more interesting in photos. It could do with the decorations, bridesmaids, or family members.

How is your style of photography different from others?

My style is more about the romantic gestures, feelings, and soft colouring. It makes the photos look timeless and dreamy.

EOS 5D Mark III, EF24-70mm f/2.8L USM lens, f/3.2, 24mm, 1/160sec, ISO250
It was a cloudy day in Mount Bromo, Java, Indonesia, but this gave a misty and dramatic effect to the photo

Is chemistry necessary between the photographer and the couple when most photo shoots only take place over a few days?

Yes, we have to build a chemistry unique to each client so that the pictures taken would not turn out awkward and unnatural. Chemistry is a must!

What happens when something doesn’t go according to plan?

If that happens I’d need to come up with a Plan B.  There’s no reason to be in a bad mood because the show must go on. Also, sometimes great things can happen from a turn of events!

EOS 5D Mark III, EF24-70mm f/2.8L USM lens, f/4.5, 50mm, 1/200sec, ISO125
Shibuya never goes out of style!

How do you cope with unexpected situations in a foreign land?

Well, there’s always a need for discussion. As long as the client trusts me, everything will be smoother and more comfortable. For example, if the weather turns foul but the couple still insists on shooting, we would try to find an umbrella and turn it into a rain wedding shoot!

EOS 5D Mark III, EF24-70mm f/2.8L USM lens, f/7.1, 24mm, 1/500sec, ISO100
Bali, Indonesia, with its crystal clear ocean and good vibes from the couple

What are the challenges shooting overseas?

As we’re working in a foreign land, we really need to know the itinerary well. Also, weather can be a huge challenge too. But what makes it a mission is bringing all the items and equipment together! So, good packing (including weather-proofing the gear) is a must.

EOS 5D Mark III, EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens, f/2.8, 70mm, 1/400sec, ISO320
Photo shoot with Lisa in Tokyo

What happens when you and the couple disagree on a location?

We’ll have to find a win-win situation. However, as they are the client, we have to satisfy them with the best possible results. Also, we cannot complain about the location if it were their dream destination.

 

What could be more fun than making their dreams come true?

 

EOS 5D Mark III, EF16-35mm f/2.8L II USM lens, f/2.8, 16mm, 1/2000sec, ISO160
Taken in Auckland, New Zealand, this place was a little windy that day but it gave a dramatic feel to the photo!

How long have you been using the Canon EOS 5D cameras, what do you like about them?

I’ve been using the EOS 5D series for three years. It’s user-friendly and has an impressive autofocus feature, and what I like the most is the colour that EOS 5D can produce – it’s warm and reflects my style perfectly.

EOS 5D Mark III, EF24-70mm f/2.8L USM lens, f/22, 24mm, 1/60sec, ISO100
Sunrise and the newlywed, taken at The Edge Resort, Bali, Indonesia

How does the camera complement your style of shooting?

My camera has a really good sensor and I also have a variety of lenses that accommodate my personal style, like the EF85mm f/1.8 USM lens, which is really good for shooting portraiture. My favorite features in EOS 5D are the AF system and great video quality.

EOS 5D Mark III, EF100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM lens, f/2.8, 100mm, 1/320sec, ISO100
Beautiful sunset at a rooftop in Surabaya, Indonesia. One of my favourite couples, Kartika & Bayu, has that chemistry in their eyes

 

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