The Nichols ~ Austin, TX

Based in Austin, TX Jennifer and CJ Nichols are the talented husband and wife team behind the spectacular imagery of The Nichols. Inspired by the meaningful memories they hope to create for generations to see their photography is natural and real. Their unique perspective combines a creative stylized portrait approach with the photojournalistic ability to capture the feeling and emotions that happen as the day unfolds. Their stunning images have made them one of the most sought after photographers in the South and their work has appeared regularly in our Real Wedding features on Completely Unveiled. Read on to learn more about Jennifer and CJ and the inspiration behind the lenses of The Nichols.

The Nichols is based in Austin, TX. To contact The Nichols, visit their website here.

Weddings Unveiled: Tell us a little bit about The Nichols.

Jennifer Nichols: My husband, CJ, and I have both been photographers for over 15 years and shared a love for photography when we meet in 2000. We met while working at a summer camp for kids near Yosemite, and it didn't take long to discover that we shared a mutual love of photography. I never would have imagined that 10 years and two kids later, we'd be making a living doing what we love most! We truly enjoy working together and I couldn't imagine it any other way.

WU: How did you become a wedding photographer?

JN: We both have backgrounds in fine art photography, but any artist will tell you how difficult it can be to support yourself in the art world. After our oldest daughter was born 6 years ago, I stumbled upon some wedding photography blogs. I discovered that couples were now looking for creative, artistic wedding photography rather than the stiff, traditional wedding photography style of the past. After shooting just a few weddings, we discovered what a perfect fit it was for us and we never looked back.

WU: Digital or film or both? Why?

JN: Unlike many of our peers in the industry, CJ and I both learned the basics of photography shooting film and developing our images in the darkroom. We're both so thankful for that experience, but I couldn't imagine shooting film now, not weddings anyhow. We take so many images, and weddings are such fast-paced events with lighting situations that are constantly changing, that I couldn't imagine shooting film under those circumstances. Some wedding photographers shoot film, and do it very well, like Jose Villa. But for us, digital is the only way to go! I always daydream about setting up a darkroom and shooting film again, when our kids are in college and we have more time in the day, but for now, we're so very thankful for digital technology!

WU: Describe your wedding photography style.

JN: Bright and fresh! Our style is a mixture of photojournalism and creative portraiture. We love capturing all of the real moments that happen throughout the day, weddings are such emotion-filled events! But what I think makes us really stand out is our ability to create stylized portraits that are at same time, very natural and real.

WU: Show us your favorite wedding image and tell us why it represents who you are as wedding photographer.

JN: Wow, it was really hard to pick one! But this is definitely one of my favorites. A beautiful couple in love, gorgeous light, and genuine happiness, right after they said their "I do's." What's not to love?

WU: What inspires you?

JN: My family is what inspires me on a daily basis. I can't believe how fortunate I am to be able to work side-by-side with my husband, and to spend every day with our two beautiful girls. I'm a lucky mama!

WU: What inspires your photography?

JN: Our amazing clients, who really put their own stamp on their wedding day, from the little details to their vows. And I'm pretty sure I tear up just a little at every wedding we shoot. It's usually the father/daughter dance that gets me! Weddings are such a special occasion and the fact that our photography will potentially give our clients' children and grandchildren a glimpse into the past of such a meaningful event is always an inspiration.

WU: How do you keep your wedding photography fresh?

JN: We're so very lucky to have the opportunity to work with fun, creative couples who really trust our vision. Having that trust enables us to create images that not only capture our clients in a unique way, but is also a representation of who we are and how we see things.

WU: What makes you different from other wedding photographers?

JN: Gosh, there are so many amazing wedding photographers out there! I'm not exactly sure what makes us different, but couples that book with us generally say that our images stand out as being bright and natural.

WU: What would be your ideal wedding assignment?

JN: Mountain landscapes are my very favorite. We were married in a little chapel in Yosemite Valley almost 7 years ago, so I would love the opportunity to shoot a wedding in a beautiful mountain setting!
WU: Tell us three things you can't live without.

JN: 1) my adorable family 2) morning coffee 3) my camera

WU: What is the best advice you can give to an engaged couple?

JN: Hire vendors who you trust and enjoy being around and then let them what they do best! That way you can relax and enjoy your wedding day to the fullest.