Zach Anderson

Graduated from Edina High School in 1998

Photographing weddings for one year

What do you look for when taking a photo? 

Lighting first, background second. I am a huge fan of capturing real moments and trying to avoid the standard wedding poses. When it comes to organizing people, I try and capture them in a natural environment as much as possible. People tend to look their best when they’re having fun.  

When traveling to a new state, location, or country for a wedding, what is the first thing you need from the bride and groom? 

The schedule. It is really helpful to have a good itinerary, so I can prepare for all the happenings throughout the weekend. 

What is the first thing you do when you arrive at the destination wedding? 

In any new location, I try my best to scout the areas that we are going to be shooting to make sure I have a good idea about the lighting, backgrounds, etc. of those areas. It can be really helpful to have a game plan on where I want to take pictures before the wedding begins. 

What perspective do you bring to wedding photos? 

My personal style is to try and be that paid guest at my weddings. We all know that the formal family photos are a requirement, but I am all about capturing your moments as they happen. The group shots should be fun, unique and a reflection of the bride and groom’s style. 

What is one piece of equipment you couldn’t shoot without, besides a camera?

My 50 mm lens.

What is the most exotic place you’ve traveled for a wedding? 

Right now, it’s Mexico. But, I am really looking forward to more international weddings in the next few years. [This year,] I will be traveling to Squaw Valley, Napa Valley, Seattle, Jupiter Island and Playa Del Carmen, [Mexico].