Hi there, my name is Ivan, and with my wife Rochelle, we are Vanilla Snaps.
For us, the best wedding photography is candid. We believe weddings should be about you and your partner, about the commitment you’re making to each other—not about putting on a big show for social media or having an expensive photo shoot. It’s all about capturing the real, raw moments of your day.
Wedding photography is unique in that it’s a mix of many different styles. You have to be a storyteller, capturing moments as they unfold, but also know when to step in and guide people for portraits. Depending on the vibe of your day, it might be a relaxed garden party, or something more formal, like a black tie editorial. Either way, I’m there to capture it all.
Beyond the people, there’s the details—the décor, the venue, the landscapes. And then, of course, there’s the challenge of shooting at night. Anyone who’s tried taking photos with their phone in low light knows how tough it can be, and a wedding day is full of moving people and changing light conditions. That’s why it’s so important for me to be well-versed in all kinds of photography styles to get the shots that truly tell your story.
My goal, whether it’s in the daylight or under dim lighting, is always the same: to make you and your family look your absolute best.
I also believe that a good photographer should never be the centre of attention. We’ve all been at a wedding where the photographer makes the whole ceremony about themselves—doing something crazy with lights or getting in the way during speeches. I never want to be that photographer. I want to capture your day in a way that feels natural, unobtrusive, and, above all, respectful.
I aim to make the whole experience as efficient and seamless as possible. I’m an introvert at heart, which might surprise you, but I’ve learned that being a photographer means I have to step outside my comfort zone when needed. Being an introvert has taught me that I can show up as an extrovert when it counts, like during those important moments.
In terms of how I approach the day, I’m primarily a documentary photographer. I focus on candid moments throughout the day, but of course, family portraits and couple photos are important too. These are the timeless images that get passed down for generations. And for me, that’s one of the best things about wedding photography—I’m creating something of lasting value for you and your family.
I know it’s a little bittersweet, but I’m aware that in some cases, I might be the one taking someone’s last photo. That’s why, even though I keep the vibe fun and lighthearted, I never lose sight of what truly matters: capturing the moments that you’ll treasure forever.
So, if you’re looking for a photographer who values candid moments over posed shots, who blends into the background rather than making a scene, I’d love the chance to document your day.
Thanks for dropping by —We hope to hear from you soon