Coffee Break with Charlie-Juliet
One of the best things about working in weddings and events is the creative and talented people I get to meet. It's an incredibly collaborative community and I'm very thankful for the friendships and opportunities that have come my way over this past year. So here's a new blog series featuring some of those wonderful people I've met. I hope these posts will offer a more intimate look into the lives of these creatives and help you find amazing people to work with on big day! First up, photographer CJ Isaac of Charlie-Juliet!
What is your favorite thing about being a photographer? My favorite thing about being a photographer is the love and joy that surrounds my sessions and weddings. I sometimes tear up there is so much joy. Whether it's a child's first photo session or a wedding day, there is no greater satisfaction than being able to capture those moments. But the real reward for me is delivering a disc to my client. They always get to see moments they didn't even know existed, and to be able to make my clients smile at the end of the day and for years to come is beyond rewarding.
How would you describe your photography style? I sometimes use these 3 words to describe my style and I think it fits me well: timeless, colorful and natural.
What inspires you? I get my inspiration from many different areas. I love interior design, the textures, the colors, and the spaces. If I was not a photographer I would definitely design homes. I really enjoy going shopping just to look at things and when I have an hour or two, I will go to Barnes and Nobles and just sit for a while and browse through books and magazines. It keeps me grounded and gives me so many ideas for future photo shoots.
As a small business owner, what is one thing you'd like to accomplish this year? Oh goodness, that is a tough one. I have to say the one thing I want to accomplish this year is a work and life balance. Working from home and planning a Spring 2014 wedding at the same time can be tricky. As a small business owner you always want to make great leaps and changes to make yourself better and stronger. So this year is all about trying to make those leaps and changes to get things just right.
What is your favorite city in the world, and why?
I have a feeling my favorite city is going to be Paris. I am going to France for 3 weeks in December and I have a gut feeling I am going to fall in love. If I was not going to Paris, I would have to say my favorite city so far is Cinque Terre Italy. It's a very magical area of the world and I definitely want to go back.
When you're not working, what is your favorite thing to do? If I am not working I love spending time with Adrien (my fiancé) and trying out new restaurants and walking around the city. We love food so anytime we get to try a new place, we are in heaven.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In five years I would love to have a house somewhere with Adrien, and build a smaller all natural light studio in the backyard. A space all to myself to play and work. That way my work will not be far from home and I can be a mom at the same time. That's the goal for now.
Thanks to CJ for sharing her lovely photos, as well as Jainé of Brklyn View, who shot the photos for CJ's engagement sessions that are featured above. Head on over to Ruffled to see the complete gorgeousness of CJ's French inspired photo shoot with her fiancé, and to Charlie-Juliet for more of CJ's work!