On this grey West Coast day, we are thrilled to shine our Pro Spotlight on Oregon's own Eugene Pavlov Photography!!
If you are looking for a photographer who is not afraid to take chances and think outside the box, then Eugene is for you. His authentic, raw style stays true to the couple and the love he captures is evident in every frame.
Based in Oregon in the beautiful Willamette Valley, Eugene loves to travel for his work; he enjoys the challenge of an unfamiliar destination.
From Eugene:
"I feel like I get more creative and more edgy when I'm pushed somewhere I'm not comfortable being. That's why I LOVE going to new places and shooting in all sorts of locations because each location challenges me differently. If it's a highly photographed area - it pushes me to think differently. If it's an unorthodox spot for a wedding shot - makes me adjust and make it look romantic and fitting."
Eugene has a long history and lasting love for photography which was established at a young age. He shared with us his personal story of how the "rules" of photography came between him and his father. He was forced to choose between family and his style, and he made the difficult but correct choice (family of course). As time passed, family issues resolved and Eugene was able to pick up where he left off. Now unemcumbered by conflict, Eugene was free to be more creative than ever! And his creativity definitely comes through in his work.
From Eugene:
"I became interested in photography because my father used to be a photographer. I would assist him with changing film and carrying his equipment. Once the digital era hit - he bought be a DSLR and we started shooting together. As time passed - I began developing my own style that greatly differed from his. He kept his photos very traditional - following the "rules" of photography to a "T". I, on the other hand, started breaking rules and concentrating on factors aside from the traditional rules of photography."
As the disconnect between Eugene and his father grew due to their approach to wedding photography and divergent styles, it became apparent that it was the business or the relationship.
"We picked our relationship and zipped up our camera bags. A while later he approached me and told me that a lot of people have been asking him if I still shoot because they really liked my style. He encouraged me to start on my own and even gave me all of his equipment. With his blessing - I sold all of it and upgraded to better digital equipment! From that point on he encouraged and cheered me on. To this day - every time I post a wedding - I make a trip my parents home to show off my latest wedding to him."
One thing we love about Eugene is the authenticity in his portfolio. Many photographers will oblige a couple to meet their style of photography. What you get is look-a-like weddings; most likely beautiful, but not a true reflection of the couple. Eugene takes the time to get to know each couple, to find out who they are, their interests, and what makes their relationship unique. By staying true to the couple he is able to capture their love, emotions and connection in any surrounding.
From Eugene:
"I'm not one of those photographers who shoot weddings to progress their career until National Geographic calls. I actually love shooting weddings! I love the excitement, the emotion, and the pressure of documenting something that's happening in real time. Weddings offer me an opportunity to meet awesome people and create friendships that last for a lifetime! Many couples whose wedding I shot - I also shoot maternity shoots as well as anniversary shoots. I love and cherish those relationships."
Working with Eugene is a laid back experience, even with the stresses that sometimes swirl around a wedding day. He's been told that he's like a wedding day psychologist. Married himself, perhaps he posseses the wisdom that only comes with a happy marriage. Or perhaps it's the fact that he is wise enough to bring along his wife on every shoot! Eugene's wife Alla is a licensed hair stylist and having her along to make adjustments and keep everyone feeling beautiful is invaluable.
We asked Eugene what inspires him, and his answer inspired us:
"It changes from couple to couple. Their story inspires me. Their love inspires me. Their family inspires me. That's why I approach this the way I do - I make it about the couple: from location to wardrobe - the mission is simple - capture who they are authentically."
After reading his words, seeing his work and learning about his journey with photography, it is obvious Eugene Pavlov is not only an artist dedicated to his craft, but a true romantic with a great story. Couples, be sure to stop by his profile to admire more of his beautiful portfolio and give him a shout!
Don't miss this adorable video of Eugene and Alla by Aaron Almquist:
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Background: photo by owlandfoxstudios