Joyfully Ambitious: Gina Esposito, Anée Atelier
As owner and principal photographer of Anée Atelier, a boutique wedding photography studio, Gina Esposito is technically based in New York City. But she spends her work life traveling the globe to document the moments — both big and small — involved in a couple’s big day. Esposito’s sharp eye, attention to detail, editorial-inspired style, and her ability to put even the most camera-shy person at ease, make her one of the most coveted photographers in the industry. (Even Harper’s Bazaar thinks so — they named Anée Atelier one of the top wedding photographers in the world.)
Here, we talk joyful ambition with this talented creative force.
Name: Gina Esposito
Pronouns: She/Her
Business: Anée Atelier
Instagram: @aneeatelier
Was there a moment when you knew you were absolutely on the right path?
I'll never forget the moment I realized. I was flown to Tel Aviv, after traveling to five different Maldivian islands, to create a beautiful post-wedding editorial shoot for our clients. The opportunity to document such unbelievable beauty at some of the most exclusive resorts in the Maldives, only to fly directly to Israel and photograph our couple through the magical locations of Jerusalem, Old Jaffa, the Negev Desert, the Dead Sea and the City of David was almost too much gratitude to bear. I'll remember that moment for the rest of my life.
How do you handle self-doubt?
In a society where self-doubt runs rampant, I often find myself at the ocean and grounding myself by reflecting on my journey: where I've been and where I am now. It's a lot easier to see past any self-doubt when you're able to see your journey from a larger perspective as opposed to the micro-section you're currently living in.
Is there a life or business mantra that you live by?
There is one phrase that I live not only my professional life by, but my personal life as well: ‘Your talent will not take you where your character cannot keep you.’
How do you find joy in moments of uncertainty?
I focus on the lessons I know I'm learning during those times. Although difficult, I've come to realize in those moments I am being stretched, my character is being fortified, and even though it may be hard to keep a particular perspective in those times, I know and believe that everything does work out for the good — even if we may not have certainty in that moment.
Who is another woman in your field that you admire?
Another photographer I admire greatly is the late Dorothea Lange. Her documentation work throughout the Great Depression era was not only painfully beautiful, but also an immortal reminder that we are all humans trying to do the best we can in the lives we're living.
What is your favorite part of your work?
Learning about people, about their lives, their cultures, and what makes them feel their most alive. I love challenging people to be their best selves and showing them how beautiful it is to push past points of discomfort. The results are always tremendous.
What is your favorite part of your day?
The moment our couples see each other for the first time. You can physically watch their countenance change and their anxiety disappear. A sure confidence emerges that is palpable.
What inspires you?
So many places, people, and things inspire me, but the one constant inspiration for me is creation. Nothing in life will ground me, excite me, and leave me slack-jawed and in awe quite like nature will. It's where I retreat every time I need clarity or creativity.
