We had the good fortune of connecting with Akari Lewis-Iburi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Akari, what are you inspired by?
I’m most inspired by love, storytelling, and the art of being human. As a wedding photographer, we ride the waves of so many emotions in one day and are lucky to work with people willing to share that experience in front of our lens. A wedding celebrates both the love between a couple and the layers of love that surrounds them. Understanding this depth keeps me humble and searching for meaningful moments behind the scenes. Creatively I’m fueled by rich shadows, tones, textures. But when it comes to approaching a shoot, I’m a human first and a photographer second.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Stylistically, we are a blend of both photojournalism and creative portraiture. It’s a dance between knowing when to be a wallflower and stepping in to create a composition. This is an approach we’ve learned to refine over almost 15 years of shooting weddings, it’s a lot of intuition at this point. One element that has made our business successful and something I’m most proud of are the connections we make with our clients and couples. Building these relationships help us shape a stronger narrative through our photography and makes each wedding that much more unique.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’ve spent the last decade in Buffalo, NY so I would recommend spending some time at Nietzsche’s, Tudor Lounge, or Gypsy Parlor for open mic. You HAVE to get Cajun Stout BBQ chicken wings at Mr. Goodbar, any burger at ABV in Allentown, and a tall Pilsner Urquell at Rohall’s Corner in Blackrock.

 

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My brother, business partner, and photographer Shin Iburi. Without his dreams, support, and drive, Iburi Photography would never be what it is today. Our incredible family, friends, and client-family for all their love. My main squeeze and #1 hubby Kevin for his beautiful brain, creativity, endless support, and gifting me with true unconditional love. Ameka Cooper (of Ameka Jans Photography) was the first photographer I’ve ever worked for. Seeing her in her element and interacting with clients has forever left an impression on me.

Website: https://www.iburiphotography.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iburiphotography

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/IburiPhotography/

Image Credits
Iburi Photography

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