MOEVIR Magazine September Issue 2025

[ Sarah Bakker ]

https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/3155188

Photographer: @sarahbakker.official

Model: @luxe.like.me

Makeup Artists: @twin_scissors_hairmobil

Color & Style Expert: @daniela_vanzetta_coaching

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Sarah Bakker is an editorial photographer, mentor, and creative visionary whose work lives at the intersection of art, identity, and transformation.

For Sarah, photography is not about decoration – it is about revelation. Her images shape brands and tell stories that remain unforgettable, merging high-end elegance with emotional depth.

From her early fascination with visual storytelling to her current work across weddings, fashion, and branding, Sarah has always been drawn to the moments where artistry and authenticity meet. This editorial approach defines her style: timeless, sophisticated, yet deeply personal. She has photographed hundreds of weddings and creative projects, always with the same vision – to create imagery that feels like it belongs in the pages of a magazine, while still capturing the essence of the person in front of the lens.

Beyond her role as a photographer, Sarah is known as the leading mentor in the editorial wedding photography space. She empowers photographers and creative entrepreneurs to not only refine their visual style but to build a clear artistic brand identity and a sustainable, high-end business around it. Her mentorship goes far beyond technique — it’s about unlocking an entirely new level of creative confidence and positioning.

Beyond her role as a photographer, Sarah also mentors other photographers and entrepreneurs. She guides them in developing not only their visual style but also their identity as artists and business owners. Many of her clients describe the experience as transformative – they come seeking inspiration and leave with a stronger sense of who they are and how they want to be seen.

What sets her apart is the way she combines aesthetics with strategy and psychology. Her work is not just about how something looks, but about what it communicates, how it resonates, and the impact it leaves behind.

Today, Sarah continues to push the boundaries of her editorial branding in the wedding industry and beyond. Her vision is clear: to empower women to step into their own narrative with confidence, beauty, and strength – while creating their very best life.

You started with photography at 14 and turned professional in 2016. How did your early experiences shape the way you approach weddings today?

It´s the experience of having seen so much – it feels like I’ve already photographed every wedding at least three times. And after every season, I took time to reflect: what do I want to do differently? I kept asking myself, is this still what I want? Does it truly fulfill me? Because for me, passion and fulfillment have always been the driving force. That’s what shapes my approach today: I treat every wedding as a masterpiece, as something unique that deserves the very best of me. No two weddings are ever the same in my eyes – and couples feel that. They know they are in high-level hands.

You describe yourself as both photographer and mentor. How do these roles complement each other in your daily work?

It’s like yin and yang – they go hand in hand. I never had a classical photography education. I invested in workshops, in myself, and combined that with my background in online marketing and leadership roles in consulting. Today, that’s exactly what makes me the perfect partner for photographers on their own journey. I don’t know anyone else who merges high-level business expertise with a strong creative practice the way I do. In my mentoring, I help photographers with brand building, content creation, visibility on social media, and attracting their dream clients. And at the same time, I bring all my real-life experience from my own work as a photographer. This unique combination of high-level business strategy and editorial artistry empowers my clients to not only define a clear, unmistakable signature style, but also to position themselves at the top of the luxury market, attract their dream clients worldwide, and build profitable, sustainable brands that stand out far beyond trends.

Your motto speaks to chasing big dreams. How has this philosophy guided your career decisions?

I’ve always been someone who dreams big. I never settled for “standard.” I was drawn to people who were living proof that big dreams are possible. One of my first mentors quit her job without knowing what would come next, moved to Mallorca, built her dream life there – and a multi-million business. That kind of courage has always inspired me. For me, it’s never been about money as the main goal, but about the freedom and possibilities it creates. I constantly ask myself: How can this be even better? How can this be even greater? That mindset has guided me every step of the way – and it’s why today I live a life that’s not “normal” by conventional standards. Not comparable to someone who goes to the same office every day, doing the same work. For me, every day is unique – and that’s because I still choose, every single day, to dream big.

What personal qualities or skills do you believe are essential for building a sustainable career in wedding photography?

Without a doubt: building a strong brand. Without brand building, nothing lasts long-term. You might get a few bookings here and there, but sustainability in this business comes from having a clear identity. When your values are so tangible that someone can land on your profile and immediately feel what you stand for – that’s half the game. You have to stand clearly for what you believe in, speak your truth, and translate that into your brand presence. That’s the foundation for a lasting career and for attracting the kind of clients you truly want to work with.

You’ve transitioned toward an elegant, timeless editorial style. What defines “editorial” for you in the context of weddings?

For me, editorial is the perfect fusion of high-level artistry, pure aesthetics, and authentic storytelling. It’s about capturing a wedding day exactly as it unfolds — without heavy staging or forced poses — while using a trained, editorial eye to elevate each moment into something that feels magazine-worthy.

Over the years, I’ve experimented a lot, tested ideas during couple shoots, and asked my clients to trust me — which they do, 100%. That trust allows me to create a delicate balance between documentary authenticity and high-end editorial sophistication. The real art lies in seeing those fleeting moments — sometimes just milliseconds — and pressing the shutter at the exact angle where emotion, light, and aesthetics meet.

I’ve loved magazines since I was a teenager. I would spend my pocket money on them, rip out posters, decorate my walls, and get lost in those visual stories. That passion still shapes my work today. For me, editorial wedding photography is about combining the natural essence of a wedding with a refined, Vogue-like aesthetic that makes my images instantly recognizable. People often tell me, “I knew it was your photo without even seeing your name” — and to me, that’s the ultimate compliment.

How do you balance the authenticity of a wedding day with the sophistication of a Vogue-like aesthetic?

It’s a constant dance between observing and refining. I start by immersing myself in the natural energy of the couple and the day — watching how they interact, how they look at each other, how they touch. I don’t force extreme poses or over-direct; instead, I let moments unfold organically.

At the same time, I bring my editorial vision to every frame: choosing the right angles, playing with light, and composing with intention. That’s where the Vogue-like aesthetic comes in — not by changing what’s real, but by knowing how to see it. It’s about elevating reality without distorting it, so the couple recognizes themselves in the images, but also feels like they’ve stepped into a work of art.

Which visual references or creative disciplines outside photography most inspire your current work?

I draw endless inspiration from fashion, editorial magazines, architecture, and design. I still love flipping through high-end print magazines — there’s something about holding paper in your hands, sitting in a café with a coffee, and immersing yourself in beautifully curated imagery.

I also attend events, galas, and fashion shows whenever I can. Being surrounded by other creative minds and meeting inspiring people fuels my work in unexpected ways. I think great photography happens when you let your world expand beyond photography itself — when you blend influences from art, culture, and personal experiences into your own visual language.

How has social media, particularly Instagram, influenced your style evolution and client expectations?

Instagram has had a huge impact on my journey — both creatively and professionally. Many of my clients find me there and immediately connect with my work. I’ve learned that strong positioning polarizes: it either attracts or repels, and I’m completely okay with that. The couples who choose me know exactly what they’re getting — a high-end editorial experience — and that alignment is key.

Sharing my vision openly on Instagram has also shaped my evolution as an artist. I’ve embraced the idea that no two weddings should ever look the same. Each one is a masterpiece, approached with fresh eyes and tailored storytelling. That’s what fulfills me most — and, interestingly, it also inspires other photographers. Since defining my style and sharing my successes, I’ve seen many peers gain the courage to claim their artistic voice as well. It’s beautiful to see how standing fully in your truth not only attracts your dream clients but also empowers others to do the same.

After photographing over 250 weddings, what have you learned about building a client base that truly fits your vision?

I believe there’s nothing more important than being crystal clear about who you want to work with, who you want to spend your time with, and — most importantly — who you want to serve. For me, working with my clients is always about serving them in the highest way and creating something meaningful together.

I ask myself every single day: Who do I really want to work with? What does my dream client look like? How does she live? What are her values, her dreams, her lifestyle? I mainly work with women, so I naturally envision her world — her energy, her aspirations, even the way she dresses. The more my clients mirror my own values and aesthetics, the better the connection and the stronger the results.

Over time, this has attracted clients who naturally move in the same space I do — high-fashion, editorial, high-end aesthetics. Many of my brides are models, creative directors, or marketing professionals. Many are women who, like me, embrace being both mothers and entrepreneurs — living boldly without choosing between personal and professional fulfillment.

Of course, in the beginning, I also worked with clients who weren’t always the perfect match. And that’s completely fine — those weddings were still beautiful, and my couples were always treated professionally. But after each wedding, I reflected: What didn’t feel 100% aligned here? How can I refine my process so it does next time? Step by step, this clarity shaped my business and my positioning. That’s what I’d recommend to anyone: learn with every experience until your dream clients naturally find you.

How did you navigate the business challenges during the pandemic, and what lessons remain relevant today?

The biggest challenge for me during the pandemic wasn’t financial — it was the loss of freedom. Not being able to travel, meet people, or live as openly as I wanted was the hardest part. But in that restriction, something beautiful emerged: I found deep meaning in small, intimate weddings.

Accompanying my couples to the registry office, sometimes just the three of us, touched me profoundly. Those moments of closeness, stripped of distraction, allowed me to create images with an intense emotional connection. Even today, I carry that lesson with me: when I photograph weddings, I often mentally “fade out” the other guests and focus completely on the couple. It creates a sense of intimacy and presence that defines my work now more than ever.

The pandemic reminded me of the power of human connection — and that’s something I’ll never let go of.

As weddings become more personalized, how do you adapt your services without losing your signature style?

Honestly, I don’t adapt my services in the traditional sense. My signature experience stays the same because it’s built on authenticity and editorial artistry.

Of course, I refine and evolve my offerings over time — always asking myself how I can make the experience even more exceptional for my couples. Sometimes that means adding features rather than removing them, enhancing the value they receive while keeping my artistic voice intact.

My clients come to me because of my style and vision. That’s the foundation, and it doesn’t change — it only deepens.

What role does pricing strategy play in maintaining both exclusivity and profitability?

Interestingly, pricing strategy has never been a challenge for me. I know many photographers struggle with money mindset, but in my case, my positioning does the work for me.

My clients don’t choose me based on price — they choose me because they see me as the only option for their vision. Of course, they may request other quotes, but in most cases, I’m the only photographer they seriously consider. By the time they reach out, I’ve already answered their unspoken questions through my branding, positioning, and portfolio.

That’s what creates exclusivity — and that’s what makes the business naturally profitable. When your dream clients know you’re the perfect match, pricing becomes a confirmation, not a negotiation.

What shifts do you see happening in the wedding photography industry—both aesthetically and commercially?

Aesthetically, wedding photography is moving strongly toward individuality and authenticity. We’re moving away from standardized posing and predictable “checklist shots.” Instead, couples are seeking imagery that feels editorial, bold, and artistic — photographs that don’t just document but tell a story. They want their wedding images to look like they belong in Vogue or Harper’s Bazaar, while still capturing who they truly are.

Commercially, I see a clear shift toward high-end boutique services. The market is polarizing: on one end, there are highly budget-driven offerings, and on the other, luxury experiences for couples who are willing to invest in aesthetics, artistry, and exclusivity. For photographers with a strong and recognizable signature style, this presents an incredible opportunity to attract clients who deeply value the work and understand its worth.

Do you think editorial wedding photography is becoming a global trend, or is it still niche in certain markets?

Editorial wedding photography is definitely becoming a global trend, but we’re still in the early stages. In creative hubs like Paris, New York, London, and Dubai, the look is already well-established, driven by the influence of fashion, design, and the arts. In other regions, it’s still more of a niche, but it’s growing — and fast.

Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are accelerating this shift. Couples are constantly exposed to international editorial imagery, which inspires them to want the same refined, magazine-worthy aesthetic for their own weddings. This opens up enormous opportunities for photographers who position themselves clearly within the high-end editorial space — because suddenly, the market isn’t just local anymore; it’s global.

How do you foresee AI and emerging imaging technologies impacting professional photography over the next five years?

I believe AI will deeply transform the industry — not by replacing photographers, but by changing how we work. Tasks like culling, basic retouching, and image organization will increasingly become automated, giving photographers more time to focus on creativity, concept development, and artistic direction.

What AI cannot replace, however, is the human eye — the intuitive ability to capture fleeting emotions, subtle gestures, light, and atmosphere. Especially in wedding photography, where connection and trust are everything, the magic lies in translating real, unrepeatable moments into timeless imagery.

For me, AI is an opportunity rather than a threat. The clearer your visual signature and artistic voice, the more you’ll stand out in a world where standardization becomes easier than ever. True artistry can’t be automated.

Destination weddings are on the rise again. How do you manage creative consistency when shooting across different cultures and locations?

For me, the key is to stay anchored in my own artistic vision while allowing the essence of each location to influence the storytelling. My editorial signature travels with me, but I remain deeply inspired by the architecture, culture, light, and energy of every place I photograph.

Whether it’s Amalfi, Santorini, Mallorca, or the Côte d’Azur, every location has its own personality, and my goal is to weave that into my imagery while maintaining a consistent high-end aesthetic. It’s about merging the local atmosphere with my editorial style so that the final gallery feels both globally cohesive and uniquely tailored to the couple and their celebration.

This is exactly why couples book me: they want images that are instantly recognizable as my work, yet still feel personalized and deeply connected to their story and setting.

What common mistakes do you see aspiring wedding photographers make, and how can they avoid them?

One of the biggest mistakes I see is that many aspiring photographers try to appeal to everyone — and in doing so, they end up appealing to no one. Instead of defining a clear positioning, they follow whatever is trending or copy what others are doing. The result? Images that feel exchangeable, in a market that’s already oversaturated.

My advice is simple but powerful: define your vision first. Ask yourself how you see the world, what aesthetics move you, and which couples you truly want to work with. The clearer you are about your identity, the easier it becomes to attract clients who align with your values and style. Authenticity is timeless — trends come and go, but your artistic voice will always set you apart.

As a mentor, how do you teach photographers to develop a personal style rather than imitate trends?

For me, developing a personal style starts within. It’s not about presets, gear, or technical shortcuts — it’s about self-reflection. With my mentees, I work deeply on uncovering what truly inspires them: Which visual worlds speak to you? Which stories move you? What emotions do you want your images to evoke?

I encourage them to look beyond photography and draw inspiration from fashion, architecture, art, and editorial design. A strong signature style isn’t created by copying trends — it’s built by translating your inner world into your work. My role as a mentor is to guide photographers to find their own voice, so their images become unmistakably theirs.

What advice would you give female photographers seeking leadership roles or visibility in a competitive industry?

The first step is to take yourself seriously — as an artist, as an entrepreneur, and as a brand. Too often, we wait for external validation before stepping into visibility, but in reality, you have to grant yourself that permission.

Be clear in your positioning, speak your truth boldly, and share your successes unapologetically. Visibility doesn’t come from playing small; it comes from owning your story and showing up consistently.

And most importantly, surround yourself with women who inspire you. Build a network that supports your growth and shares your ambitions. In an industry as competitive as ours, it’s the ones who dare to raise their voices, define their value, and lead with confidence who truly stand out.

Looking ahead, do you envision expanding into education, building a studio team, or pursuing brand collaborations beyond photography itself?

Absolutely — and mentoring will be at the very heart of that journey. I feel a deep calling to bring my approach to editorial branding out into the world, to inspire and empower other photographers and creatives to develop a strong, authentic visual identity of their own. Education is becoming one of my biggest passions, and I see this as a central pillar of my future.

At the same time, I want to position myself even more internationally and become widely recognized for my high-end editorial aesthetic. I’m incredibly excited to take on brand collaborations and step more fully into the high-fashion industry — working on global campaigns, destination editorials, and large-scale productions that align with my vision.

I’m also very open to expanding into travel and lifestyle work. Weddings will always hold a special place in my heart, but they don’t have to come first. Part of my vision is creating a business that integrates seamlessly with my life and my family. I want the freedom to bring my son along, to travel, to create without limits — and these new creative avenues make that possible.

I truly believe the next chapter is about expansion — reaching a wider audience, collaborating with global brands, and crafting imagery that resonates far beyond the wedding industry.

MOEVIR

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EDITOriAL