About this site

Authenticity is about being real - both to customers and to ourselves. It's about running our business in such a way that it is 100% in line with our values and we don't feel like we have to bend ourselves in order to be seen or belong. And it's about being honest in front of our customers and communicating openly with them. What they see is what they get - in the best possible way. Let's focus on what brings us and our customers real joy and reflects our values. Let's be real.

Even though we all claim to put our customers first, the question is: do we act like it? Putting customers first means really listening to their needs rather than just working to sell the most expensive upgrade. Only when we act authentically and with genuine empathy can we create a memorable experience that is 100% customised to our customer and not just focused on the next sale.

We maintain an open, respectful and honest tone in the community. No question is too simple, no request too unimportant. We show consideration for each other and don't show off to others because of our status/followers/booked weddings. We have no room for big egos and elbow mentality and this is also enforced in the community. Our Code of Conduct:

Open Communication: Promoting open and honest communication and respect for the boundaries and privacy of others.

No elbows, no egos: This is not a place for your ego. We are here to support each other. If you think you are the one and only and need to tell everyone about it, this community is not for you.

Inclusivity: Promote a welcoming environment for all users, regardless of their background, identity or preferences.

No harassment: No form of harassment, intimidation or bullying will be tolerated.

No hateful speech: Language or images that promote hatred, discrimination or violence based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age or other characteristics are not permitted.

No spamming: Spamming or flooding of posts, comments or direct messages will not be tolerated.

In the Storm Guild, it is important to us that we all learn from each other - no matter how experienced we are. We communicate and discuss as equals and support each other in sharing our knowledge and experience with all members. Even beyond wedding photography.

As an introvert in my 40s, I know how different our social preferences, weaknesses and strengths are from extroverts. How often have I heard marketing tips at workshops or conferences (especially in relation to social media) that don't work at all for us introverts? This community is therefore especially dedicated to those who approach things differently. The quiet ones and the unconventional ones. People who are observers, listeners and empathetic calming influences. And like to swim against the tide and away from the crowd.

In the Storm Guild, we take a different approach to the rest of our bubble in many respects. This is also the case with social media and the digital tools we use. We help those who are tired and discouraged by Instagram, Facebook and the like to find joy in sharing their own content again. How do we do that? With the open, free and decentralised networks of the Fediverse and open source tools that give you back control over your data and your followers. Come with us to social media as we learned to love it in the early days: chronological, free of advertising, recommendations and trackers, without algorithms and the massive monetisation of us users, our connections and our preferences. Not a techie? Don't worry, we'll help you get started.

It wouldn't be a real Sturmsucht community if the north, with its epic landscapes and harsh weather, was missing. That's why you won't find any high society styled shoots in Mallorca or fashionable storytelling workshops in Tuscany. Instead, you'll find windy coasts, misty forests and landscapes characterised by rain. And real people with the northern lights on. Let's hunker down in a mountain hut to co-work, chase the storm on the coast with our camera and celebrate couples who subdue the fog and rain.