Review is written by Staff @ The Ring and is based on • Interviews with this vendor • Interviews with past brides
When we started our research on Nova Markina, Owner and Principal Photographer at NovaMarkina Photography, it was pretty clear that this was the type of photographer that we love to share with brides in The Ring. The couples she has worked with absolutely adore her- we were truly taken aback by the admiration her past couples have for her- describing Nova as, "a special kind of talent...one of my favourite things about my wedding day" and "the best wedding decision I made!"
With images that are stylish, fun, and emotionally provoking, Nova captures the perfect mix between tradition and trend, without ever sacrificing quality. Here's more on this fabulous photographer......
Personally Speaking
Nova's career was born out of pure passion for photography, specifically photographing people and their interactions with eachother. "Having learned on a hand-me-down 35mm Pentax when I was a teen, the dream of becoming a professional photographer in some capacity was always there, however it wasn't until a few years later - a university degree in psychology (something I have been able to implement on almost a daily basis) and few career opportunities - when everything started to happen. I bought my first DSLR and began assisting local photographers with weddings."
Nova's style and personality quickly caught the attention of couples in the London area. Shortly after becoming an assistant to other local photographers, Nova started booking weddings on her own. Before she knew it, she had built up a solid client base and thus, NovaMarkina Photography opened its doors in 2009.
Now, Nova realizes more than ever that this is what she was born to do, "I am 100% confident when I say that I have the best job in the world. I photograph individuals on the most amazing day of their lives, which in and of itself is truly inspiring, and I have the opportunity to push myself (creatively) on a daily basis."
Nova's love for shooting weddings was part of the appeal for Melysa Brown. Melysa was married in March 2011 in Los Cabos Mexico and says she feels so fortunate to have found a photographer she could truly trust, "We have a lot of wonderful memories with Nova, getting to know her during our destination wedding was a pleasure. When I met her I could see, and hear in her voice how excited she was and I knew right there we had the person for the job. She puts 110% effort into her work and you can tell she absolutely loves her what she does."
Going above and beyond
In the past few years, Nova has worked her way up to becoming a much sought after photographer in the London area and beyond. She started her career as an assistant, doing everything from carrying equipment to acting as a second shooter. "I would help in every and any way possible, which meant anything from setting up lights to backing up cards to sewing on missing buttons for groomsmen and even re-pinning the occasional curl for bridesmaids."
Today, Nova shoots an average of twenty weddings each year, mainly due to incredible word of mouth referrals from past clients. But brides aren't the only ones taking notice- Nova has had her work featured at the Strathroy Public Library, she's been interviewed by 105.7 Fresh FM and Rogers TV London and has been seen on several online wedding blogs, including Style Me Pretty, Love Wed Bliss, Sensational Wedding Vendors & Bow Ties & Buttercream and I Love Farm Weddings.
One of the keys to Nova's success is her desire to constantly expand her knowledge about her craft. "I am always on the hunt for new knowledge. Education is the key to success and growth, and I am always eager to learn as much as possible in order to better myself as a photographer. This always means a fresh eye and added value for my clients."
For Nova, this includes continuing her education in both photography and the wedding industry as a whole. She regularly attends conferences such as WPPI, and enrolls in many online seminars to further hone her skills.
Nova's Style
When we talked with her past brides', it was clear that Nova is known for a great mix of stylized and candid images. But it's not just her photography that attracts her couples. Brides love Nova because she's attentive, easy to work with and she takes the time to truly understand what each couple wants, "I collaborate with each couple to photograph the images they want while staying true to NovaMarkina Photography's style. I take the time to listen to my clients - to learn what is important to them, and to provide appropriate feedback and suggestions when asked."
Alisha Gleiser says that Nova was "hands down" the best photographer she could have asked for on her August 27th, 2011 wedding day, "One of my favourite memories is the compliments paid to Nova from our wedding party and wedding guests. Nova was loved by all - I think it says a lot about someone's professionalism and charisma when she can get 12 additional people in our wedding party to love her despite heat and a couple hours of photographing after a long ceremony. Our guests also felt she was respectful, cheerful and polite. Working with her was a delight as she approached everything without judgment and with total honesty and class."
As a true 'people person', Nova's couples appreciate her ability to build reciprocal trust and a great rapore, right from the start. Nova explains, "I learned early on that being a wedding photographer is a huge responsibility based on trust and professionalism, and that short of being a co-ordinator that it is your job as the photographer to ensure and facilitate the flow of the wedding day. I want nothing but the best for each of my couples, and make it my mission on their wedding day to be not only the best photographer I can be, but to maintain a positive dynamic the whole day through."
Nancy Giffen was married in June 2010, says she was instantly attracted to Nova's approach, "Our first meeting with Nova was not what we had expected at all, in sitting with other photographers we felt a bit intimidated by them. This was not the case with Nova. She made both my husband and I feel comfortable and at ease. She asked lots of questions and made sure that her style of work was a fit for us. Working with Nova was amazing....she made everyone feel relaxed in a time that can be stressful and she fit in like she was a part of our wedding party, which made for great candid shots."
The NovaMarkina Bride
Nova makes it her mission to give her couples exactly what they want on their wedding day. So it's no surprise that her ideal bride would be someone who knows exactly what they want. "They are precise and detail oriented. They trust the professionals that they've hired and love my style of photography. They are outgoing and fun-loving!"
Recent bride Beth Cake was married September 24th, 2011 and says that her experience working with Nova was so impressive that she will continue to book her for other life milestones. "Nova is a genuinely awesome person. She is great at listening to what you want and making it happen. My favorite memory with Nova is her jumping in the back our jeep to get some off roading engagement shots! She was willing to participate in anything that was important to us!"
Nova says that while each couple has specific ideas about their wedding, her brides are alike in many ways. "They love to have with fun with their photographer, yet realize the importance of professionalism. They love my non-intrusive approach, and the variety of images I present to them including a combination of stylishly posed images and candid images."
Matthew and Kali Zwambag were married on August 6th 2011. They said they would recommend Nova to anyone looking for something special in a wedding photographer, "Nova is passionate, professional, respectful, fun, relaxed, organized, driven and TALENTED. Her work is superb and she is a pleasure to work with. No photographer will ever live up Nova in my opinion. I will continue to book her whenever I am in need of a photographer."
Pricing & Packages
Nova offers a variety of wedding packages, ranging from $2150-$4500 (the average bride spends about $3600 with Nova). These packages vary in the amount of coverage and type of products included, so couples can truly find something that fits within their budget and vision. However, all of Nova's packages include:
-An album
-A secure online online gallery (posted 4-6 weeks post wedding) that makes it possible for clients to share their images with their friends and family
-A disc of images
-scheduling assistance
- As many meetings with Nova as necessary prior to the wedding...
-Each wedding includes a mix of both stylish and traditional posing along with candid images
Some packages include engagement sessions, and other print products. The Ring loves that each couple has the opportunity to choose a package that fits them perfectly.
Bride Melysa Brown agrees. She told The Ring, "We definitely feel the prices matched the value we received...her effort and quality of work were beyond our expectations. I would recommend Nova to anyone planning a wedding without hesitation, we absolutely love our photographs and couldn't be happier with the outcome."
On top of Trends
Nova says bridal albums are always popular amongst her wedding clients. "These timeless keepsakes are personalized for each couple, and are, without a doubt an absolutely amazing way to both share, and preserve wedding day memories."
Nova has also seen a shift where couples are starting to plan a wedding that truly reflects their individuality. She has noticed that everything from the colour pallet to the decor to the traditions they choose to either embrace or omit are all about their personalities. "There really is no right or wrong way to plan a wedding, but sheer personality and attention to detail is present now more than ever."
Walking you Through it
If you're interested in booking NovaMarkina Photography for your wedding day, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it so that she can get in touch with you.
Nova will schedule an in person consultation with you. From here you'll talk about all of the details- what you want from Nova and your wedding photos, you'll discuss package options that fit your particular needs and wants and you'll also briefly discuss your wedding day timeline in order to ensure that you choose a package with the right amount of coverage. Once you've decided to book, you'll sign a contract to secure your wedding date with Nova.
Nova also likes to take this opportunity to learn more about you, "I love to get to know my couples - their likes and dislikes, how they see their wedding day, their list of 'must-haves' etc. - so that I can set them up with the perfect package. It is important for our relationship to begin as soon as possible." Nova's past brides would unanimously agree- she is always listening to what you want, "I aim to ensure that we're not only the perfect match, but that they are receiving exactly what they want."
Prior to your wedding day, Nova often meets with you a number of times. She is available to help with as much (or as little) of the planning process as you need. In many cases, she will photograph the engagement session where she has the opportunity to really get to know each couple personally. At this point, you will finalize things such as time lines and photo lists, "from there, it's smooth sailing!"
On your wedding day, Nova is always there as the primary photographer. She also always brings along an assistant to help her make sure that everything runs seamlessly. "My assistant's role is to help me with whatever I need on the day of the wedding to ensure that I can perform my job with the utmost perfection. From second shooting, to carrying bags, to driving between locations, my assistant helps me with pretty much everything."
The day of the wedding, (always keeping your pre-determined schedule in mind), Nova photographs the day as it unfolds. She is sure to take posed photos when necessary as well as shots of the details and candid moments.
Bride Mandie Whittington says that Nova wasn't just her wedding photographer, "she was everything" on her May 2011 wedding day. "With our destination wedding I wanted someone that I was very comfortable with and could trust. She was amazing.. Nova has such as easy going but professional personality, she takes all of the stress and awkwardness out and just makes it fun. And she has that natural eye for the prefect shot."
After your wedding day, you can expect to see your images in a secure online gallery within four to six weeks of your wedding day. You can have a sneak peak even sooner if you allow Nova to use your images to be published on her blog. Shortly after, you'll receive your album designs, print orders and any other goodies you may have ordered.
Nancy Giffen says that her experience working with Nova was a big part of why her wedding day was perfect, "Nova went beyond my expectations, and I have recommend her to couples more times than I can count. In fact, this past summer she shot a wedding my husband stood up in where two of the groomsmen were past clients. That has to say something for her talent!"
Details, details, details
•The average bride spends approximately $3600 with NovaMarkina Photography
•To secure your wedding date with NovaMarkina Photography, a non- refundable retainer of $1000 must be paid upon signing the full contract and booking your event
•All prices are subject to HST, and may change without notice. Prices are only guaranteed upon submitting a retainer
•Travel may be subject to extra charges
•It's best to book with Nova at least three months before your wedding to ensure that your date is available. However, exceptions may apply.
Contacting Nova.....
To get in touch with Nova, give her a call at 519-709-3827 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
When we started our research on Nova Markina, Owner and Principal Photographer at NovaMarkina Photography, it was pretty clear that this was the type of photographer that we love to share with brides in The Ring. The couples she has worked with absolutely adore her- we were truly taken aback by the admiration her past couples have for her- describing Nova as, "a special kind of talent...one of my favourite things about my wedding day" and "the best wedding decision I made!"
With images that are stylish, fun, and emotionally provoking, Nova captures the perfect mix between tradition and trend, without ever sacrificing quality. Here's more on this fabulous photographer......
Personally Speaking
Nova's career was born out of pure passion for photography, specifically photographing people and their interactions with eachother. "Having learned on a hand-me-down 35mm Pentax when I was a teen, the dream of becoming a professional photographer in some capacity was always there, however it wasn't until a few years later - a university degree in psychology (something I have been able to implement on almost a daily basis) and few career opportunities - when everything started to happen. I bought my first DSLR and began assisting local photographers with weddings."
Nova's style and personality quickly caught the attention of couples in the London area. Shortly after becoming an assistant to other local photographers, Nova started booking weddings on her own. Before she knew it, she had built up a solid client base and thus, NovaMarkina Photography opened its doors in 2009.
Now, Nova realizes more than ever that this is what she was born to do, "I am 100% confident when I say that I have the best job in the world. I photograph individuals on the most amazing day of their lives, which in and of itself is truly inspiring, and I have the opportunity to push myself (creatively) on a daily basis."
Nova's love for shooting weddings was part of the appeal for Melysa Brown. Melysa was married in March 2011 in Los Cabos Mexico and says she feels so fortunate to have found a photographer she could truly trust, "We have a lot of wonderful memories with Nova, getting to know her during our destination wedding was a pleasure. When I met her I could see, and hear in her voice how excited she was and I knew right there we had the person for the job. She puts 110% effort into her work and you can tell she absolutely loves her what she does."
Going above and beyond
In the past few years, Nova has worked her way up to becoming a much sought after photographer in the London area and beyond. She started her career as an assistant, doing everything from carrying equipment to acting as a second shooter. "I would help in every and any way possible, which meant anything from setting up lights to backing up cards to sewing on missing buttons for groomsmen and even re-pinning the occasional curl for bridesmaids."
Today, Nova shoots an average of twenty weddings each year, mainly due to incredible word of mouth referrals from past clients. But brides aren't the only ones taking notice- Nova has had her work featured at the Strathroy Public Library, she's been interviewed by 105.7 Fresh FM and Rogers TV London and has been seen on several online wedding blogs, including Style Me Pretty, Love Wed Bliss, Sensational Wedding Vendors & Bow Ties & Buttercream and I Love Farm Weddings.
One of the keys to Nova's success is her desire to constantly expand her knowledge about her craft. "I am always on the hunt for new knowledge. Education is the key to success and growth, and I am always eager to learn as much as possible in order to better myself as a photographer. This always means a fresh eye and added value for my clients."
For Nova, this includes continuing her education in both photography and the wedding industry as a whole. She regularly attends conferences such as WPPI, and enrolls in many online seminars to further hone her skills.
Nova's Style
When we talked with her past brides', it was clear that Nova is known for a great mix of stylized and candid images. But it's not just her photography that attracts her couples. Brides love Nova because she's attentive, easy to work with and she takes the time to truly understand what each couple wants, "I collaborate with each couple to photograph the images they want while staying true to NovaMarkina Photography's style. I take the time to listen to my clients - to learn what is important to them, and to provide appropriate feedback and suggestions when asked."
Alisha Gleiser says that Nova was "hands down" the best photographer she could have asked for on her August 27th, 2011 wedding day, "One of my favourite memories is the compliments paid to Nova from our wedding party and wedding guests. Nova was loved by all - I think it says a lot about someone's professionalism and charisma when she can get 12 additional people in our wedding party to love her despite heat and a couple hours of photographing after a long ceremony. Our guests also felt she was respectful, cheerful and polite. Working with her was a delight as she approached everything without judgment and with total honesty and class."
As a true 'people person', Nova's couples appreciate her ability to build reciprocal trust and a great rapore, right from the start. Nova explains, "I learned early on that being a wedding photographer is a huge responsibility based on trust and professionalism, and that short of being a co-ordinator that it is your job as the photographer to ensure and facilitate the flow of the wedding day. I want nothing but the best for each of my couples, and make it my mission on their wedding day to be not only the best photographer I can be, but to maintain a positive dynamic the whole day through."
Nancy Giffen was married in June 2010, says she was instantly attracted to Nova's approach, "Our first meeting with Nova was not what we had expected at all, in sitting with other photographers we felt a bit intimidated by them. This was not the case with Nova. She made both my husband and I feel comfortable and at ease. She asked lots of questions and made sure that her style of work was a fit for us. Working with Nova was amazing....she made everyone feel relaxed in a time that can be stressful and she fit in like she was a part of our wedding party, which made for great candid shots."
The NovaMarkina Bride
Nova makes it her mission to give her couples exactly what they want on their wedding day. So it's no surprise that her ideal bride would be someone who knows exactly what they want. "They are precise and detail oriented. They trust the professionals that they've hired and love my style of photography. They are outgoing and fun-loving!"
Recent bride Beth Cake was married September 24th, 2011 and says that her experience working with Nova was so impressive that she will continue to book her for other life milestones. "Nova is a genuinely awesome person. She is great at listening to what you want and making it happen. My favorite memory with Nova is her jumping in the back our jeep to get some off roading engagement shots! She was willing to participate in anything that was important to us!"
Nova says that while each couple has specific ideas about their wedding, her brides are alike in many ways. "They love to have with fun with their photographer, yet realize the importance of professionalism. They love my non-intrusive approach, and the variety of images I present to them including a combination of stylishly posed images and candid images."
Matthew and Kali Zwambag were married on August 6th 2011. They said they would recommend Nova to anyone looking for something special in a wedding photographer, "Nova is passionate, professional, respectful, fun, relaxed, organized, driven and TALENTED. Her work is superb and she is a pleasure to work with. No photographer will ever live up Nova in my opinion. I will continue to book her whenever I am in need of a photographer."
Pricing & Packages
Nova offers a variety of wedding packages, ranging from $2150-$4500 (the average bride spends about $3600 with Nova). These packages vary in the amount of coverage and type of products included, so couples can truly find something that fits within their budget and vision. However, all of Nova's packages include:
-An album
-A secure online online gallery (posted 4-6 weeks post wedding) that makes it possible for clients to share their images with their friends and family
-A disc of images
-scheduling assistance
- As many meetings with Nova as necessary prior to the wedding...
-Each wedding includes a mix of both stylish and traditional posing along with candid images
Some packages include engagement sessions, and other print products. The Ring loves that each couple has the opportunity to choose a package that fits them perfectly.
Bride Melysa Brown agrees. She told The Ring, "We definitely feel the prices matched the value we received...her effort and quality of work were beyond our expectations. I would recommend Nova to anyone planning a wedding without hesitation, we absolutely love our photographs and couldn't be happier with the outcome."
On top of Trends
Nova says bridal albums are always popular amongst her wedding clients. "These timeless keepsakes are personalized for each couple, and are, without a doubt an absolutely amazing way to both share, and preserve wedding day memories."
Nova has also seen a shift where couples are starting to plan a wedding that truly reflects their individuality. She has noticed that everything from the colour pallet to the decor to the traditions they choose to either embrace or omit are all about their personalities. "There really is no right or wrong way to plan a wedding, but sheer personality and attention to detail is present now more than ever."
Walking you Through it
If you're interested in booking NovaMarkina Photography for your wedding day, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it so that she can get in touch with you.
Nova will schedule an in person consultation with you. From here you'll talk about all of the details- what you want from Nova and your wedding photos, you'll discuss package options that fit your particular needs and wants and you'll also briefly discuss your wedding day timeline in order to ensure that you choose a package with the right amount of coverage. Once you've decided to book, you'll sign a contract to secure your wedding date with Nova.
Nova also likes to take this opportunity to learn more about you, "I love to get to know my couples - their likes and dislikes, how they see their wedding day, their list of 'must-haves' etc. - so that I can set them up with the perfect package. It is important for our relationship to begin as soon as possible." Nova's past brides would unanimously agree- she is always listening to what you want, "I aim to ensure that we're not only the perfect match, but that they are receiving exactly what they want."
Prior to your wedding day, Nova often meets with you a number of times. She is available to help with as much (or as little) of the planning process as you need. In many cases, she will photograph the engagement session where she has the opportunity to really get to know each couple personally. At this point, you will finalize things such as time lines and photo lists, "from there, it's smooth sailing!"
On your wedding day, Nova is always there as the primary photographer. She also always brings along an assistant to help her make sure that everything runs seamlessly. "My assistant's role is to help me with whatever I need on the day of the wedding to ensure that I can perform my job with the utmost perfection. From second shooting, to carrying bags, to driving between locations, my assistant helps me with pretty much everything."
The day of the wedding, (always keeping your pre-determined schedule in mind), Nova photographs the day as it unfolds. She is sure to take posed photos when necessary as well as shots of the details and candid moments.
Bride Mandie Whittington says that Nova wasn't just her wedding photographer, "she was everything" on her May 2011 wedding day. "With our destination wedding I wanted someone that I was very comfortable with and could trust. She was amazing.. Nova has such as easy going but professional personality, she takes all of the stress and awkwardness out and just makes it fun. And she has that natural eye for the prefect shot."
After your wedding day, you can expect to see your images in a secure online gallery within four to six weeks of your wedding day. You can have a sneak peak even sooner if you allow Nova to use your images to be published on her blog. Shortly after, you'll receive your album designs, print orders and any other goodies you may have ordered.
Nancy Giffen says that her experience working with Nova was a big part of why her wedding day was perfect, "Nova went beyond my expectations, and I have recommend her to couples more times than I can count. In fact, this past summer she shot a wedding my husband stood up in where two of the groomsmen were past clients. That has to say something for her talent!"
Details, details, details
•The average bride spends approximately $3600 with NovaMarkina Photography
•To secure your wedding date with NovaMarkina Photography, a non- refundable retainer of $1000 must be paid upon signing the full contract and booking your event
•All prices are subject to HST, and may change without notice. Prices are only guaranteed upon submitting a retainer
•Travel may be subject to extra charges
•It's best to book with Nova at least three months before your wedding to ensure that your date is available. However, exceptions may apply.
Contacting Nova.....
To get in touch with Nova, give her a call at 519-709-3827 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
