We're so proud of our international community of member photographers and we're delighted to share our extraordinary and highly vetted list with you. Today we have with us Martin Hecht, the documentary wedding photographer behind FineArt Weddings | Photography, who has received an abundance of accolades from editors and associations around the world. Here are a few words from Martin on what makes him love his job and why he's become one of the few photographers we recommend in Germany.

Hi Martin! Can you tell us a little bit about how you started your career in wedding photography?

In 2009, I was invited to shoot my first wedding. Inexperienced at the time, and without a real plan, I  developed my skills on my own and really found my voice over the past few years. From my very first experience, I knew that I wanted to make people happy by specializing in wedding photography.

Who or what inspires you?
Andy Reiner is a great artist and knows how to show emotions and moments in pictures. He's very inspiring to me. I am also inspired by my family, the world around me and the constant urge to capture moments again and again.

What parts of the wedding day are your favorites to shoot?
My favorite parts of a wedding are getting ready and the reception party, and all the small moments in between where emotion shines through.
 

In your opinion, what are the top three things brides and grooms should consider when shopping for a wedding photographer?
First of all, the bride and groom should feel drawn to the photographer's pictures because of his or her unmistakable style. Of course, the personality of the photographer and those of the bride and groom need to match well, because if that is not the case, the pictures will not be natural and authentic. And when choosing the photographer, the bride and groom should not be guided by the price but by the first two points. 

Agreed! At the end of the day the photos can be disapointing or priceless depending on the choice of artist.

 
Do you have a particular wedding that stands out for you over the years?
Oh, I've attended so many weddings the past ten years, I think it would be wrong to pick one as a favorite. I remember so many of them fondly because no matter the challenges of the moment, everything just worked out. Each of my weddings was something special to me, great and unforgettable in its own way.

What can your brides and grooms rely on when they hire you, Martin?
Bridal couples who book me can rely 1000 percent on the fact that their pictures will be unique and special. At the end of the day, you’ll find in me a friend who captures your wedding day emotionally, authentically and unposed to remember your day forever.

Thank you so much for sharing your work with us Martin, and for being part of our exclusive community. Your passion for your work and your ability to capture life in an honest, beautiful way is an inspiration to our team and photographers all over the world. We can't wait to see what you'll create in the years ahead!