Lovely readers - let me introduce you to the gorgeous Katie Mitchell. If you ever need a cup of tea, Katie is your girl. She is also a very talented wedding photographer, based in Paris, who I've had the pleasure of meeting through Lauren. She paid me one of the biggest compliments of my life thus far, when she observed that I was speaking a little like Alan Partridge, so I was very happy when she agreed to be part of the LouLou meets series as it gives me (and you) the opportunity to know her a little better. The photos that Katie sent me to accompany this post are some of my absolute favourite - especially the couple caught in the rain and having to improvise with umbrellas, Daisy Fluff striking a pose and Katie in action with beautiful Hana and her boyfriend. OK, that's enough from me, I'm going to leave you to read more about Katie and her Paris experience.
Katie, how did you end up in Paris?
Two years ago now, I met a rather lovely Italian man while at a yoga and meditation retreat in Pokhara, Nepal. We had a long distance relationship for eight months, meeting as often as we could in between France and Australia. I love to travel and we decided that I would move to Paris so that we could be together!
Tell us what do you do in Paris.
I'm an Australian wedding and lifestyle photographer, living and loving with all of my heart.
In a few words, describe what Paris means to you.
Love, struggle, adventure.
Your idea of a perfect day in Paris?
It would begin with a walk through the Jardin du Palais Royal (my favourite spot) and a stop for brunch with my boy. In the afternoon I’d meet with friends for afternoon tea in a cute cafe. Oh and flowers. LOTS of flowers.
Which French "quirks" put a smile on your face? And which make you frown?
I love that Parisians actually say ‘Ooh la la!” - it’s adorable!
The post office system here makes me frown on a weekly basis (I send a lot of mail and the whole process is always a nightmare!)
How did you get into photography?
I travelled around the world in between my school and university studies and found meaning and beauty in photographing the lives of others. When I returned to Australia, I enrolled in a Bachelor of Photography which set the perfect foundation for building my own small photography business.
Personally, I am a huge fan of your photos because you capture couples so authentically. Would you be able to talk us through your process?
Thank you! I love to interact with my couples. We’ll talk and laugh and avoid any awkward staged poses - I think it’s the key to achieving a more natural look (and having a fun time in the process!)
Where do you look for inspiration for your blog/work?
I find inspiration in the little things around me such as gardens, parks and gorgeous buildings.
I look to photographers/contemporary artists outside of the wedding photography genre, and I try to attend photography seminars and workshops as often as I can to continually learn and evolve my craft.
If you could hop on a plane right now, which destination would you choose (and why)?
I have a long list and am desperate to visit Bhutan next year, however first up would be San Francisco to visit my parents and give them the biggest hugs ever!
One thing on your bucket list?
I’ve completed several half marathons… so the next step would be to run a full one!
What's the one thing you really miss from home that Paris cannot replace?
Warm weather and sunshine (near enough) all year round. Sand between my toes and grass beneath my feet.
What would you really miss about Paris if one day you left?
The amazing florists! They have me forever in awe. I’m always stopping to document the beautiful blooms that this city has to offer.
Would you have any advice for expats moving to Paris who are considering freelance work?
When I was still living in Australia I didn’t utilise Instagram enough. It took some confidence to put myself out there in the beginning but since living in Paris I’ve found that it’s been a blessing to connect with and meet new friends, clients and other creatives.
Quick Fire questions
Favourite patisserie? Odette
Favourite metro line? 8
Rive Gauche ou Rive Droite? Rive Droite
Red, white or rosé? None of the above – always a cup of tea!
Favourite Parisian café? Rose Bakery in Le Marais
Favourite French film? Intouchables
Favourite Parisian museum? Galeries de Paléontologie et d’Anatomie Comparée museum
A huge thank you to Katie for taking the time out of her busy schedule to answer my questions and provide me with some of her stunning photos. If you'd like to see more, and I'm sure you do, then you can visit her website, Instagram account or Facebook page.
Lou xxx