DC-based photographer Peter Bang is highly regarded for capturing gorgeous wedding and engagement shots. Below, Peter gives District Bride Guide a glimpse into one fabulous district celebration – Holly and Anash’s traditional Persian wedding.   

Do you approach a shoot differently when a couple’s heritage is the central component?   

In my first meeting with Holly, she explained the importance of the traditions and details that were planned for the ceremony. Leading up to the big day, I did more research on the meaning behind these traditions so that I would understand and appreciate what was going on during the wedding. This also helped me feel more connected with the couple and the family.   

How did you ensure that Holly and Arash’s personalities came through in the photographs? What are the core elements that make a wedding shoot timeless but still personal?

It starts with earning the couple’s trust, then connecting with them by interacting and observing. I didn’t meet Arash until just before the ceremony, so I observed how he interacted with Holly and how he reacted to the ceremony. I noticed that although he’s a strong guy, he showed a lot of emotion and love. I also discovered his laid-back nature and playfulness by the way he smiled and laughed. As I’m documenting these moments, personalities come through naturally.   

As for portraits, my style is to direct couples in a way that they look and feel natural. I like to give them something to say or do to each other to summon a genuine reaction. Arash was being playful and having a good time, so we got a lot of fun shots.   

To me, timeless images are genuine moments, and genuine emotions captured. A timeless image is one you can look back on 20, 30, or 50 years later and relive all over again.   

We know that a good client-photographer relationship is crucial to creating exceptional shots. What made Holly and Arash so enjoyable to work with?   

Holly and Arash were totally relaxed and enjoying their wedding day. They completely trusted me to document these special traditions and capture beautiful portraits as well. Holly and Arash’s total confidence in me motivated me to deliver exceptional shots for them.