Our latest Farmers Image of the Week is by one of our favourite Thrive conference attendees, Sophie Alexandria. Honestly, at this point, I should probably take her on as a consultant because she’s my go-to for opinions on conference ideas. Sophie was part of my very first mentoring cohort and has been a powerhouse ever since. After her incredible success post-mentoring, I’ve seen a steady stream of photographers from her area join the programme, all eager to uncover ‘Sophie’s secrets’. Well, here’s the scoop: it’s all about showing up and consistently doing the work.

Sophie is a grafter. She ploughed through her tasks with lightning speed, rapidly achieving her goal of becoming a full-time destination wedding photographer. I’ve been tracking her progress since she completed the programme and she just keeps soaring. She’s now landing accolades like being featured in Professional Photo magazine’s Top 50 list. More importantly, she goes above and beyond for her clients. It’s no surprise that she pushed boundaries to capture this epic first kiss photo that perfectly features the castle in the background, fulfilling her clients’ brief to a tee.

Sophie has masterfully composed this shot, with the couple perfectly centered and the majestic castle providing a stunning backdrop. The symmetry of the scene, combined with the reflection in the water, creates a balanced and harmonious image. This clever use of the environment not only highlights the couple and their guests but also showcases the grandeur of the location.

From a technical perspective, this image is spot on. The focus is sharp, capturing the intricate details of the bride’s dress and the groom’s attire. The depth of field is well-managed, keeping the couple in sharp relief while allowing the background to complement rather than compete with the main subjects.

Sophie Alexandria’s work continues to inspire, demonstrating what can be achieved with dedication, skill, and a willingness to go above and beyond. This image is a perfect example of her ability to blend technical proficiency with emotional storytelling, making it a standout piece that truly deserves to be our Farmers Image of the Week.