ON VIDEO

finch collective studios

by LINDSAY PACE photos by FINCH COLLECTIVE STUDIOS

"IT'S DOCUMENTARY. IT'S VOICE."

Opening page: Emily Finch Robbins in her studio. Previous page: A Finch Collective couple on their wedding day. This page, clockwise from top left: A portrait of Emily, courtesy of Peyton Neal Photography; a Finch collcetive bride posing on the steps of a chpael; a reception photo from a Finch Collective wedding; Robbins with her camera.

upelo native Emily Robbins embodies dynamic. She speaks quickly, her energy and optimism unyielding. As a professional videographer, it is no wonder she understands forward motion.

She began Finch Collective, her professional wedding videography and photography business, by chance. She’s quick to tell you that her story does not involve growing up under the method of an artist-turned-parent. She didn’t toddle around with a disposable Kodak. But the 27 year old has had a long-standing interest in the craft.

Robbins began over a decade ago, studying under Saltillo photographer Deanna Knight. The gig was a way to earn cash, and though she had an interest in the craft, she didn’t yet have the drive to pursue it on her own. That is, until her mom called her.

“Do you want to video a wedding?” her mom asked.

“I don’t know,” Robbins replied.

Robbins filmed the video anyway. The 2018 event would become the first in a long line of work she has produced for couples across the southeast, and has given her an outlet to

Tcultivate creative confidence full-time. She’s learned to think horizontally instead of vertically, and how to construct narratives in cohesive ways. What she loves most about her work is its ability to bring one’s senses forward. Whether it’s the sound of a bubbling fountain in the courtyard or a celebrant pronouncing a marriage, she believes the elements of video bring viewers back to a singular moment. Robbins is aware that video can also preserve the essence of others. Former clients have expressed their gratitude for segments including loved ones who have passed away – that they can see them, hear them, perceive them again. Like a finger on a pulse, filmography renders up a life. Once a year, Robbins and her husband, Kurt, make time to do the very same. They remember their promises, the lilt of their vows as they were spoken. This reminds her of the power of her work. “Videography brings the wedding day back to life in a way that photo doesn't,” Robbins said. “It’s documentary. It's voice.” M