How Joyce became a wedding photographer through her passion for creating lasting memories

Joyce was only ten years old when she first discovered photography. During a family trip to South Africa, she received a simple film camera as a gift. "That’s when I realized how much I enjoyed photography," she says. The photos she took back then were far from perfect. "A blurry elephant, too far away and way too dark," she laughs. But something important happened: her love for photography was born. Years later, that love grew into a serious photography business.

How a personal loss changed Joyce’s vision forever

Not long after, Joyce faced a personal loss that changed her perspective forever. When her father passed away a year later, she truly understood the value of photographs. "I hadn’t taken enough pictures of him, or of us together. The few I did have suddenly became priceless."

This realization became the foundation of her work as a photographer. "I want my couples to still feel what they felt on their wedding day, even thirty years from now. The loving look from their parents, that big hug from their best friend, the first look with tears in their eyes. Those are the moments that truly matter."

From hobby to professional

From that moment on, photography became a constant presence in Joyce’s life. She bought her first digital camera, a Kodak from the local drugstore, and used everyone around her as models: friends, family, even pets. Later, she upgraded to her first DSLR, and before long, she was increasingly asked to shoot portraits and events.

Still, she hesitated for a long time about turning her passion into a profession. "I was afraid I wouldn’t enjoy photography anymore if it became a job." But she kept coming back to it. After studying Communication at Utrecht University and working as a communications specialist, she made a decision. After someone asked her to photograph a wedding, she registered with the Chamber of Commerce. "I haven’t regretted it for a second."

Even so, developing her own style didn’t come naturally. "I often felt insecure. Everyone else seemed to know exactly what they were doing. But by trying and doing a lot, I eventually found my own path."

Weddings full of meaning

Joyce specialized in wedding photography. "So much comes together on a wedding day: emotion, all the friends and family, a beautiful couple, and all the details they’ve carefully thought through for months."

To her, that meaning goes far beyond aesthetics. "When my father died, photos became more than just beautiful images. They brought me back to memories I never wanted to forget. A single photo could bring back his smile." That experience is at the heart of her mission: creating images that take you right back to that one moment.

"I want my couples to look back at their wedding photos in thirty years and feel exactly the way they did on that day."

Timeless, authentic, and personal

She describes her style as timeless, authentic, and emotion-driven. "My photos should last for generations. These are the images you show your grandchildren fifty years from now."

What sets her work apart is her personal approach. "I take my time, adapt, and make sure people feel at ease. Especially at weddings, that’s essential."

Growth through honesty and inspiration

She still vividly remembers the first wedding she photographed. "I was very honest with the couple and told them I’d never photographed a wedding before. They trusted me completely. That gave me the space and confidence I needed."

Another highlight was a recent workation in Italy with other wedding professionals. "I learned so much and really felt: this is why I became a photographer."

Still, it’s not always easy. "The biggest challenge is not to be overwhelmed by all the talent you see on social media." Her solution? "Put my phone away and start creating personal work. That’s when the inspiration flows."

Putting client experience first: how Joyce uses Shootstack

When Joyce decided to take her business seriously, she looked for a professional way to deliver her photos. "I started with WeTransfer, but it didn’t offer the kind of experience I wanted to give."

With Shootstack, she delivers previews within two days, so the couple can relive their wedding right away. The full gallery follows within three weeks. After that, she uses Shootstack to create the album. All her clients need to do is mark their favorite photos with a heart, and Joyce then uses these photos to create the album.

"My photos are more than just files, they’re an experience. And Shootstack helps me make that experience complete."

Joyce was one of the first users of Shootstack after its launch and has been working with the platform for years to deliver her photos professionally and with care.

Dreams and goals

Joyce still has plenty of dreams. "I’d love to photograph weddings abroad, or an elopement. I absolutely love traveling, and my camera always comes with me."

She also wants to focus more on branding photography. "Entrepreneurs inspire me. Capturing their story sounds amazing."

However her journey unfolds, one thing is certain: "My love for photography will always be there. I want to capture moments that should never be forgotten."