When we asked GEORGE LIOPETAS how his career began, he told us that he likes to say “I was born into photography — quite literally.” His parents owned a small photography store in Patras, Greece, called Quick Film, and some of his earliest memories are inside that space, surrounded by prints, film rolls, and the scent of developing chemicals. Despite growing up in that environment, he had no intention of following in their footsteps. In fact, for many years, he actively resisted photography thinking he’d carve a different path entirely.
But life has a way of nudging us toward our true calling — often in unexpected ways. When he was 14, his parents needed help at a wedding. His father handed him a camera whilst he filmed video. “I didn’t know it at the time, but that day quietly marked the beginning of everything.”
Years later, during the height of the Greek financial crisis, George found himself working multiple jobs just to stay afloat. Then, in 2014, while his mother was battling breast cancer, she encouraged him to attend a photography workshop on the island of Lefkada. George says that weekend changed his life. “It helped me realize that photography could be more than a job — it could be a way to express my voice, my emotions, and my love for human connection.”
Now, ten years later, he can proudly say he didn’t simply continue his parents’ profession — he transformed it into something that reflects who he truly am. He’s spent the last 17 years photographing weddings across Greece and around the world. “What I do today may have started in a small family shop, but it’s evolved into an artistic journey that’s all my own — one that I’m endlessly grateful for.” Today we’re chatting further with him to learn more about his style and career.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY STYLE, AND WHAT SETS YOU APART?
If I had to describe my photography style in one word, it would be honest. I strive to tell each couple’s story with emotional integrity — nothing staged, nothing forced. My work is rooted in real moments, genuine emotion, and a deep respect for the people in front of my lens.
Even the colors in my photographs reflect this honesty. I don’t believe in over-editing or chasing trends — I believe in preserving the natural beauty of the day, the atmosphere, and the feeling. The golden light of the Greek islands, the intimacy of a quiet glance, the joy that bubbles up in spontaneous laughter — these are the things I want my couples to remember when they look at their photos 10, 20, 50 years from now.
What sets me apart is that I don’t simply photograph weddings — I immerse myself in them. I become part of the energy, the chaos, the laughter, the nerves. I build trust with my couples so they feel safe being their true selves. And in doing so, I’m able to create imagery that feels timeless, editorial, and deeply personal — art that speaks to who they are, not just what the day looked like.
WHAT IS YOUR APPROACH TO CAPTURING A WEDDING DAY? DO YOU PREFER A MORE STRUCTURED OR MORE CANDID STYLE?
My approach to photographing a wedding day is rooted in storytelling — honest, emotional, and artful storytelling. I naturally gravitate toward candid moments, those in-between frames where emotions are real and unfiltered. But over the years, I’ve also developed a deep appreciation for editorial-style imagery — the kind of composed, thoughtful photographs that could live in the pages of a magazine yet still feel personal and timeless.
So, without realizing it at first, I learned to blend both worlds. My images may feel effortless and organic, but even the most “unposed” moment is often the result of careful observation, gentle direction, and years of experience. Couples often say they want simple, natural photos — what they may not realize is how much intentionality goes into creating that sense of ease.
I also place great value on portraiture — especially family portraits. About ten years ago, I came close to losing my mother. That experience reshaped the way I view those seemingly traditional moments. I never miss the opportunity to include parents, grandparents, or anyone dear. Years later, those images often become the most meaningful ones.
In the end, I don’t follow a strict formula. I follow the energy of the day. I adapt, I anticipate, and I create space for real moments to unfold — with a touch of editorial elegance woven throughout.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO COUPLES WHEN CHOOSING A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER?
In my opinion, your photographer is one of the most important investments you’ll make for your wedding — not just financially, but emotionally. After the music fades, the flowers wilt, and the cake is gone, your photographs are what remain. They are your memories, your legacy, and your story — beautifully frozen in time.
Let me give you a simple example: you could wear a $15,000 designer gown, but if your photographer isn’t experienced or artistic enough, that dress might end up looking like a $1,000 one in your images. On the flip side, if you’re wearing a more modest dress but your photographer is talented, confident, and creative, they’ll make it look like a couture piece — because they know how to capture light, emotion, and elegance.
So my advice? Be honest about your priorities. If capturing your day with beauty, emotion, and timeless artistry matters to you, don’t compromise on your photographer.
Also — and this is key — always schedule a discovery call before you book. You’re not just hiring someone to take pictures; you’re inviting them into your most intimate, emotional moments. It’s so important to feel comfortable, to vibe, and to know that they’ll bring out the very best in you. A good photographer should not only capture how you look, but how you feel — and even better, how you felt in that exact moment.
WHAT’S ONE OF THE MOST MEMORABLE WEDDINGS YOU’VE EVER PHOTOGRAPHED, AND WHY?
This is such a difficult question because I truly feel connected to so many of the couples I’ve worked with — I really invest time in getting to know them, so each wedding holds something special for me. That said, there are a few that I’ll cherish forever. One of them is Andrea and Matt’s wedding in the heart of Tuscany, surrounded by lush greenery and timeless architecture. The locations were breathtaking, of course, but it was the energy that made the difference — relaxed, joyful, and effortless. Every frame felt like it was made for a movie scene.
Another unforgettable celebration was Alex and his love getting married on Mykonos island. My brother and I photographed it together, and we still talk about it often. It was a celebration in every sense — beachside parties, heartfelt toasts, non-stop dancing, and a black-tie affair that radiated elegance. The entire weekend was a dream, and the fact that Vogue France featured the wedding made it even more memorable.
And then there’s a very special wedding in Paros I shot about a year ago. It was one of the most complex events I’ve worked on logistically — but I love a challenge. I always say that for me, it’s never about money first. It’s about creating meaningful work and delivering something truly unforgettable for the people who trust me with their memories.
Each wedding, with its unique energy and emotional heartbeat, pushes me to create something honest and beautiful. That’s what I’ll always show up for.
WHAT INSPIRES YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY BEYOND WEDDINGS? ANY PERSONAL PROJECTS OR CREATIVE INFLUENCES?
Beyond weddings, I draw a great deal of inspiration from the world of fashion and my work in global brand events. I’ve had the honor of photographing for houses like Louis Vuitton and Tom Ford — projects that have taken me to incredible places and put me at the heart of design, culture, and storytelling at its highest level.
Fashion has taught me how to see light, movement, and attitude differently, and I love channeling that same sensitivity into wedding photography — creating images that are both emotionally honest and visually refined.
I also have a deep love for film photography. I’ve collected several analog cameras over the years, and every few months I pick one to work with exclusively. It’s part of my personal journey — a creative ritual that keeps me grounded and curious. The imperfection, the texture, the unpredictability of film… it constantly reminds me why I fell in love with photography in the first place.
On top of that, I work on long-term documentary and creative projects that have taken me around the world, especially during fashion week seasons. My editorial work has been featured in publications like Vogue, InStyle, Harper’s Bazaar, and more — but what keeps me going is not the press, it’s the joy of constant discovery.
WHEN YOU’RE NOT BEHIND THE CAMERA, HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR FREE TIME?
That’s a great question — because when I’m not behind the camera, I truly live for the things that inspire and recharge me. Traveling is at the top of that list — it’s something that constantly fuels my creativity and love for storytelling. Music is also a huge part of my life. I grew up playing the piano, but for the past 16–17 years, I’ve been deep into the world of rock. I play the drums and used to tour around Greece with some amazing rock bands. These days, those bands are part of a great chapter in my story, but my passion for music continues — I’m also a radio producer and spend time on air at Wave FM 97.4, which is a big creative outlet for me.
I’ve even stepped in front of the camera a few times — starring in campaigns for brands like Amstel beer, Crunch chocolate, and STR8 deodorant. It’s always fun to switch roles and experience a different side of storytelling. At the same time, I love slowing down. I really enjoy staying in, watching good series with my girl, and spending quality time together. I’m also a big fan of getting out and enjoying the bar scene — a glass of rosé wine or a smooth single malt whisky always sets the tone for a perfect night out. For me, creativity doesn’t switch off when the camera does. It’s in the music, the travel, the conversations, the stillness — and that’s what keeps my work honest and alive.
WHAT’S YOUR GEAR SETUP?
I always say that the gear is just a tool — vision comes first. But yes, I do love my gear, and I make sure I use tools that help me stay fast, flexible, and honest in my storytelling. My main setup includes a pair of Canon R6 Mark II bodies — they’re lightweight, reliable, and perform incredibly well in low light, which is key for intimate indoor scenes and dimly lit receptions. I usually pair them with different lenses like the 50mm f/1.2 and the RF 28-70mm f/2. I also use some other important lenses when I need a different result. Some of them are the 20mm, a 70-200mm.
For editorial-style work and destination weddings, I always bring along a few film cameras too — I’m a huge fan of the analog aesthetic. I have a collection of film bodies (Contax G1, Mamiya 645 and the RB67 and a few 35mm classics), and I rotate between them every few months to keep things fresh and challenging for myself. Film forces you to slow down, and that brings a different kind of magic into the frame.
I also work with my brother Konstantinos on many projects — he’s my cinematography wingman — and together we have a tight setup that allows us to stay unobtrusive while delivering high-end imagery and film that feels organic and powerful. At the end of the day, no matter the camera or lens, the most important gear I bring to a wedding is my eyes, my voice (which I’ve been told is calming!), and my experience. Those can’t be bought, and they make all the difference.
DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM DESTINATION WEDDING TO PHOTOGRAPH—WHERE WOULD IT BE AND WHY?
That’s a tough one — not because I don’t have a dream destination, but because I truly don’t believe in choosing just one. For me, it’s not only about the location, but about the people, the energy, and the story we’re going to tell together. I’m passionate about traveling the world and photographing weddings that feel deeply personal and culturally rich. My dream is to continue capturing love stories in places that challenge me creatively — whether it’s an ancient monastery in Greece, a cliffside estate in Lake Como, a desert retreat in Morocco, or a minimalist architectural gem in Japan.
What excites me most is working with couples who are adventurous, emotionally present, and curious about the world. People who want their wedding to reflect their journey, their culture, and their values — and who are not afraid to break the rules or get a little wind in their hair. So, in short: my dream wedding isn’t defined by geography. It’s defined by heart, soul, and shared experience. And as long as there’s connection, intention, and good light — I’m in.
IF YOU COULD GIVE COUPLES ONE TIP FOR FEELING COMFORTABLE IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
I actually have two tips! First — and most importantly — choose your photographer wisely. A good photographer will always know how to make you feel comfortable. It’s not just about pressing the shutter — it’s about energy, trust, and presence. I’ve found through working with my couples that even something as simple as the tone of my voice can calm nerves and create ease. Sometimes, it’s those small, unseen details that make the biggest difference.
Second, if you’re feeling a bit nervous, consider doing a pre-wedding session. It’s such a great way to connect with your photographer ahead of time. It helps break the ice and builds trust — so when your wedding day arrives, it feels more like hanging out with a friend who just happens to have a camera in hand.
DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM WEDDING TO SHOOT—STYLE, LOCATION AND OVERALL VIBE?
Whether it’s an intimate celebration on the Amalfi Coast or a bold, skyscraper affair in the heart of New York City, my dream wedding to photograph is less about the specific location and more about the energy. I’m drawn to couples who are passionate, present, and ready to celebrate their story in a way that’s authentic to them.
Of course, I adore stunning backdrops and well-curated aesthetics — but what makes a wedding truly unforgettable for me is the emotion, the spontaneity, and the connection I get to build with the couple. I thrive when I’m surrounded by great energy and people who trust me to create something truly unique for them.
So if you’re the kind of couple who values storytelling, creativity, and real connection — wherever your dream destination may be — feel free to reach out. I’d love to be part of it.
HOW WOULD YOU SPEND YOUR IDEAL DAY OFF?
My ideal day off? Definitely somewhere in Greece, by the sea. I’d start with good company — my partner and some close friends — enjoying a long lunch with tsipouro or ouzo, baked squid, and a fresh Greek salad, preferably at a seaside taverna. If it’s summer (which I hope it is), I’ll be in my swimsuit, jumping into the sea whenever the sun gets too hot. No phones, no rush — just laughter, sun, salt on the skin, and the sound of waves. After that, I’d let the day take its course. When you’re surrounded by the right people and the right scenery, it always turns out to be unforgettable.
