Why You Should Hire a Seasoned Wedding Photographer: Gigi de Manio

Welcome to another episode of The Wedding Reporter Podcast. Today, we’re thrilled to delve into the art of wedding photography and the inspiring journey of a seasoned professional. Our guest is Genevieve de Manio, known affectionately as Gigi, a celebrated wedding photographer with a career spanning 25 years. Gigi invites us into her world, where she captures timeless moments of love and celebration through her lens. We also discuss her upcoming art book, Silver, a visual feast that transcends the ordinary.

Gigi’s journey into photography began serendipitously during her college years. Initially a psychology major, she needed to fulfill an art requirement to graduate. With little confidence in her artistic abilities, she chose photography, which seemed the least daunting. It was during a portrait assignment in the darkroom that Gigi experienced a transformative moment. As she watched her friend’s image come to life, she felt an overwhelming sense of magic and purpose. This experience ignited her passion for photography, and she knew she had found her calling.

After college, Gigi honed her skills at a photography school in Atlanta that emphasized advertising, incorporating copywriting, graphic design, art direction, and photography. She then moved to New York City, assisting fashion photographers, which provided invaluable experience but ultimately left her unfulfilled. Seeking a fresh perspective, she moved to Boston and briefly stepped away from commercial photography. It was her sister’s wedding that redirected her path. Gigi photographed the event as a gift and created an album that caught the eye of her sister’s colleagues. This serendipitous exposure led to her first wedding photography clients.

Gigi’s transition from commercial photography to weddings was marked by her unique approach and dedication to storytelling. Her commercial background equipped her with a diverse skill set, which proved invaluable in capturing the multifaceted nature of weddings. Whether it’s products, portraiture, lifestyle, or architecture, Gigi seamlessly integrates these elements into her work, producing images that resonate deeply with her clients.

Over the years, Gigi’s reputation grew, leading to high-profile assignments such as Chelsea Clinton’s wedding and Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent’s wedding. Despite the glamour and prestige of these events, Gigi emphasizes that every wedding is significant. She approaches each one with the same level of dedication, understanding that she is documenting an important moment in her clients’ lives. The pressure of capturing these moments, whether for celebrities or everyday couples, is something Gigi thrives on. The adrenaline and focus required keep her sharp and motivated.

Preparation is a key component of Gigi’s success. She visits venues beforehand, planning shots and considering lighting conditions to ensure everything runs smoothly on the day. This meticulous approach allows her to capture the essence of each wedding while minimizing stress for her clients.

Gigi’s 25-year career is now encapsulated in her art book, Silver. The title signifies both a milestone anniversary and a nod to the silver used in black-and-white photography. Encouraged by her husband over the years, Gigi felt the time was right to reflect on her journey and compile her favorite images into a single volume. The book is divided into three chapters: Stillness, Connection, and Energy. Each chapter represents different aspects of her work—quiet, reflective moments; intimate connections between subjects; and dynamic, high-energy scenes.

Silver is not just a collection of photographs; it’s a testament to Gigi’s dedication to her craft and her ability to capture the profound beauty of human connections. It invites viewers to get lost in each image, to imagine the stories behind them, and to appreciate the fleeting moments that Gigi has expertly preserved over the years.

Gigi’s journey from a college student fulfilling an art requirement to a renowned wedding photographer is a testament to the power of following one’s passion. Her story is a reminder to remain open to new experiences, as they can lead to unexpected and fulfilling paths. Silver is a celebration of her career and a beautiful reflection of the love and joy she has witnessed through her lens.