Today we’d like to introduce you to Derren Raser.
Derren, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
While I’ve always had an interest in the visual arts, and in photography in particular (I studied film photography in high school), my journey in wedding photography started with the planning of my own wedding here in San Diego in 2009. It was through getting to know and working with the photographer who photographed our wedding that my interest in telling people’s wedding day stories began.
After realizing what a fun, meaningful and rewarding craft it can be I was hooked. I photographed my first wedding in 2010, and since then I have had opportunities to travel all over the country to tell hundreds of couples’ stories.
How I describe my photography also reflects my values as an artist and business owner – Personal. Creative.
Storytelling. I am currently based in the Point Loma area of San Diego and I’m excited to continue serving couples from all over the San Diego area!
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Many things about starting and growing my business have been pretty smooth — I was really lucky to have my business grow quickly when I first started.
Though, throughout my journey as a business owner my wife Lisa and I have transitioned several times to new cities/states as we have followed her opportunities for grad school, jobs, etc.. I would say plugging into a new community and meeting couples in new areas has definitely at times been part of the challenges of owning a small business. It has been part of the thrill though as well.
It’s given me opportunities to see many new cities and work with couples all over the country, which has been really rewarding and fun. Regularly my couples have become friends as well, which has grown into an amazing group of cross-country friendships (including so many wonderful people here in San Diego). I always get excited when new couples reach out to say “hello” and to start that process.
Please tell us about The Rasers Photography.
I am the owner and primary photographer for The Rasers Photography, which is a boutique wedding, portrait and commercial photography studio. My work has been most recognized for the ways it blends a unique & creative perspective with really honest storytelling. For me, capturing a beautiful moment isn’t enough – I also really care about layering that moment with context and composition in order to add to its beauty and meaning.
In addition to my unique and creative imagery, I think my personal approach also sets me apart. I am friendly, flexible and I’m passionate about what I do. I care deeply about building relationships with my clients, which allows me not only to enjoy knowing them but also helps give me a clearer window into their story.
I also love to have fun and help others have fun too. One thing couples always mention that stands out to them in my images is the laughter. Joy is one of my favorite things to capture, and I think you’ll see that coming through in my work.
I am proud of the level of excellence that we provide our couples. I am also grateful for the ways I’ve been able to continue being a part of people’s lives even after the wedding day. Again, it’s been so fun and rewarding for me!
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
When I was 6 years old my family spent a year in Europe while my parents were teaching at a college there. The sights, sounds, and experiences I had there left an indelible impression on me. It formed in me an enduring love of travel, language and new things.
It also opened up my imagination of what the rest of the world was like and how I could be a part of it. It was also one of the first family trips on which I remember having a camera and taking pictures. I still have all of those small prints from that trip, and I cherish them. I was lucky to be able to have the experience of travel as a child, and I have been lucky enough to travel back to Europe a number of times since then. I still carry those memories of that original trip though, and I think of them fondly and often.
Pricing:
- My 2018 wedding pricing starts at $2,500
- Most couples end up spending between $3,500 – $4,500
Contact Info:
- Website: www.therasers.com
- Phone: (619) 363-3174
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/therasersphoto
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/therasers
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/therasersphoto
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-rasers-photography-san-diego-3
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