A Chat with Elba Dipp of Dipp Photography

This week we’re chatting with contemporary photographer, Elba Dipp of DIPP Photography. Not only is Elba’s work timeless, but she’s also the sweet soul and truly believes in the power of community (which you know we’re all about over here at Smitten Co.). We wanted to chat more with her about how she started her business, her tips for engagement sessions, and more!

Tell us a little about yourself and your business.

DIPP Photography was born out of a simple dream that so many women share: the dream to be independent. It started as a way to prove to myself and to everyone else that I could chase something huge and catch it. And I did.
My whole life, I’ve felt like vulnerability was a weakness. But since I began photographing in 2012, I’ve learned it is a sign of tremendous strength. Now that this dream has become a reality, I can focus on the most important person in my life; my son. He is the bookends of who I am. This business is my way of saying thank you to him and leaving a legacy. He deserves the world. I want to make him so proud and I would do anything to make him happy.
Actually, making people happy is my life’s mission. I want everyone I come into contact with to walk away with a smile on their face. It’s why I love weddings so much. I get to work with people on the happiest day of their lives, helping them remember every moment of it through beautiful photos.

Let’s chat about engagement sessions. What’s one good tip for having the perfect engagement shoot?

Trust your photographer and do not be shy. Have fun. Engagement sessions are a great way to bond with your photographer.

What’s one thing that sets you and your photography apart?

My drive and passion. My attention to detail, humor, and experience is what makes me unique.

Do you have a favorite thing to photograph day-of?

Yes, I love bridal portraits. Those small moments before the bride is at the getting ready location.

What’s one wedding trend you are absolutely living for? How about the one you wish would go away forever?

One trend I absolutely live for on a wedding day is a bride wearing a veil. Even though I do love how much time I get with the bride and groom when they do a first look, I feel like it should go away. Those butterflies of walking down the aisle and seeing each other for the first time is priceless.

Weddings days are full of emotion and can lead to some stressful moments. What’s one thing you do to help your brides feel calmer?

I reassure them that everything will be okay no matter what and that all the vendors are here for them. I also make my brides do deep breaths when they feel anxiety, it really helps!

There are so many beautiful venues in South Florida. Do you have a favorite for weddings? How about engagement sessions?

Vizcaya is just magical and so versatile!

We live for wedding day details. What’s one day of detail you wish more brides included?

I wish brides would invest more in flowers, and paper goods such as invitations. Even welcome signs that can make photos extra special.

Give us your #1 tip for corona brides.

Do not give up hope and lose the magic of having a lovely wedding. Just because you postponed doesn’t mean it won’t still be as gorgeous.

You also have Dipp Photobooth (which we love)! Could you tell us a bit more about it?

Dipp Photo Booth is a sister company that my brother owns. Check it out here!

One thing you should know about me:

I am the one brides will always deal with, there is no other person! From start to finish I get to know them and make sure we work closely together to make their special day unique! On the wedding day, I have a few photographers that are carefully chosen to represent DIPP Photography.

A little more about DIPP Photography…

The Dipp Experience is all about emotion. From start to finish, I’m invested. When I first meet with my brides, I’m going to find out and remember their favorite drink. I’m going to ask about their engagement story and then look at Pinterest with them to help pick out bridesmaids dresses. I will give them a list of vendors who I think they’ll like based on who they are as a couple.

I will communicate with them as much as they’ll have me up until their big day. And when that comes? I’ll be helping them put on your dress (#truestory), and tear up when they walk down the aisle, and one more time during the first dance. What can I say? I take their love very seriously.

Thanks so much for joining us, Elba! For more on DIPP Photography, check out her Instagram, website, or her listing on Smitten Co. MEMBERS: Watch out for our email with a special photography discount from DIPP Photography only available to Smitten brides!

Smitten Co. is South Florida’s wedding planning subscription. Our Miami wedding planners will help you plan your perfect wedding all while pampering you with gifts along the way. Learn more here.

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