Ioana Porav: The Art(ist) of Wedding Photography

I deeply admire how a woman can turn her work into small pieces of art. I firmly believe that these intricate details set apart professionals in any field. Through her work, a woman has the power to spread beauty around her, but also refine her own life, which I see as a form of luxury. It’s not merely about having a job or running a business; it’s about inspiring others to embrace and live beautifully.

My interview today embodies this very approach. Ioana Porav is an exceptional photographer, but her talents extend far beyond that. With stunning international projects set in castles and other awe-inspiring locations, she possesses a remarkable eye for detail, turning her photographs into full-of-life, emotional visual narratives.

Her Instagram account offers a gateway to a world of fairy tales, beauty, and love, showcasing extraordinary locations and intricate details that serve as inspiration.

Who is Ioana Porav—the woman and photographer?

Ioana Porav is a simple girl who enjoys beautiful experiences, old architecture, and taking beautiful photographs of people in love!

My family is my rock and my foundation. I am a mom of three gorgeous boys, William (12), James (11) and Oliver (6). I am absolutely in love with them, and I feel more than blessed that God sent them to me and taught me to be a better person and grow up with them! Indeed, I have grown up alongside them as I became a mother at the age of 20.

Most of the time, I refer to myself as a photographer; this is how people know me.
I may not be the most visible, but I am a passionate entrepreneur behind the scenes, currently constructing a retreat in the hills of Transylvania! Keep you posted!

I developed a deep love for photography after discovering and falling in love with my husband! He was a filmmaker ever since we met 13 years ago. Many people may not be aware, but he played a pivotal role in shaping my career. He was always there, encouraging me to grow and bring to life all of my crazy ideas and travels!

What does it mean to be a professional wedding photographer? Please elaborate.

Weddings are my thing! They are lovely, filled with love, and seeing the people in their best moments is absolutely fabulous, if you ask me! It’s unique; you can’t recreate those moments and feelings!

Fine-tuning into this style has been for me ever since I picked up the camera. Everything else related to photography seems a bit boring for me—too static, easy to recreate.

This is why being a professional wedding photographer is a big thing! You need some extra skills, such as empathy, caring, being a fast observer, being predictive, and being filled with a lot of patience!

How does it feel to work with your husband? I always find it fascinating to observe couples working together, as I have also collaborated with my husband on various projects. While we are an ideal team, our strong personalities sometimes lead to occasional arguments.

Working with my husband Vasi (a filmmaker) was the best thing happening to me, really! We can understand each other at work through eye contact and small hand gestures. Even telepathy works sometimes. I only think of gelato, and he brings me one (haha).

I feel secure while working with him; he always has my back, and I am proud to look after him too! Definitely something.

We have contradictions while working, and we bring them home because, guess what? I am stuck with him 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. But this is part of the living anyway, so it’s not something unusual. I couldn’t imagine living any other way!

You are also an art director. How do you manage to put together a wedding editorial, starting with the theme, venue, and collaborators like models, flowers, and clothing?

For me, wedding editorials are like a playground, where I can get creative without any guidelines or schedule! I have completed numerous wedding editorials over the years, even before they became trendy!

The location is my first priority. That is the first thing that inspires me! Then I choose my team accordingly to the style and personality. Once the team is complete, we create the theme. Each one of us comes with the best they have to create something unique for them (firstly) and for their future brides and grooms who can’t wait to get inspired!

Usually our teams are 15-20 wedding professionals, and we do 2-3 editorials per year.

In addition to creating these amazing photo projects, you also work as a photographer at real weddings. Where can potential clients find your work and get in touch with you?

Indeed, I dedicate the majority of my time to my brides and grooms who are tying the knot in Europe. Our summers are a crazy rollercoaster, and I love it!
Most of my people find me over Instagram, @ioanaporav; @vasileporav; they can also call me at +40753687545 or email me from http://ioanaporav.co.uk.
Mostly all SM channels.

When I look at your Instagram photos, I notice that they all share three characteristics: a sense of fine elegance, exceptional taste, and exquisite decor.

I am so happy that you could see the consistency in my work! Yes, it is defined by a fine, timeless elegance and numerous florals!