Archive for the ‘Weddings’ category

Secret Scheming, Men & Cake Proposals

October 23rd, 2010

Getting engaged is an exciting time and with each couple is a story behind how it all came to be. There’s something exciting associated with entering a new stage in life.  Not to mention the surprises of how we popped the question.

As a new husband, it wasn’t long ago that I proposed and went through the motions of it all.  One thing that is pretty common is, that for guys, it’s a very different process of getting things in order so it’s always interesting to hear the girls side of things.

For most men, it’s the most planning for a single moment that we’ve ever experienced.  We spend time learning about diamonds, saving up, meeting parents, along with planning the perfect evening - all the while keeping it in secret.  I would even say, one great part of being engaged is finally being able to tell your now fiance all the scheming, planning and work you’ve put in to make the moment “perfect”.  I think most guys can relate to this.

Being a wedding photographer is awesome if you love stories.  Because that’s what it’s all about – celebrating two lives coming together.

A little while ago I had the privilege of having a hand in the “surprise” stories of a good friend of mine.  Inside this little cake is a special gift to his now fiance.  What exciting times… I can’t wait to hear what is next for the two of them.

Stay tuned for a post recapping my proposal story.

Fun, Fresh & Familiar
Meeting the Bride for the 1st Time

September 30th, 2010

There was an exercise from an online photography course I took a couple months back that asked for three words.  The message was that any portfolio worthy image should reflect these three words.  I have to admit that the first two words came to mind quite quickly, but it’s taken up till recently for me to find my third word.

Familiar.

This came about when I began to brainstorm a blog post about meeting a potential bride and how it all comes together.  It starts with a couple full steam into wedding planning trying to choose a photographer to capture their special day.  I receive and email and we go about setting up a time to meet for coffee.

For me, it’s always important to sit down with a couple for the first time to find out more about them, what they envision their big day to be like, and just give them an opportunity to meet me and know what I’m all about.

Being photographed is not the easiest thing for most.  So that’s where the third word comes in.  I hope in the time spent together, things are a bit more familiar.  Familiar means you can relax and be yourself.  It means that we are on the same page and headed towards the same goal.  We’re all batting for the the same team.

I go back to what mattered most when Sandy and I planned our wedding and chose our photographer.  For us, it was important that we were able to be ourselves, and that the photos would reflect who we were.  It’s hard to be yourself when you aren’t comfortable.  My goal with every wedding is that a couple can go back and relive the joyful memories, not the feeling of being nervous in front of the camera.

:)

On a completely separate note, stay tuned for images from the Touchstone AGM, Leadership Richmond: Youth Now Launch & a little bit from Volunteer Futures.

Vancouver Wedding Photography
Leo & Jennie’s Wedding

September 3rd, 2010

I love stories. There’s something about raw experiences that are just so real that you live them through another person’s words, expression and enthusiasm.  This happens at every wedding. It’s a time to look back, rejoice and more importantly look forward.  You can’t help but connect.

For Leo and Jennie, the story began as two strangers going into a dance class.  Years later, here they are living their big day, ready to start their lives as mr. & mrs. and Sandy & I were lucky enough to spend the day with these two.

Jennie was oh so gorgeous on her big day.  From getting ready, to each of her outfit changes.

Notice the jewel details. Monogram of Leo & Jennie on the bottom of Jennie’s shoes!

The bridesmaids looking stunning!

I love this shot, not so much that the guys had to drink this concoction but just the contrast in colours.

The church was beautifully lit, decorated and packed to the brim.  Leo & Jennie are blessed with so many friends and family who love them dearly.

I had to pull Leo & Jennie to grab a shot of them while the church was still empty.

I can relate to this feeling. It’s the final, oh yeah!. I felt exactly the same way when Sandy & I were married.

We shot their formals at the Richmond Olympic Oval.  It was fresh and the modern architecture was just perfect!

Leo’s a pro! I asked Leo if he felt comfortable dipping Jennie and the dance lessons just came RIGHT BACK!

This is probably my favourite shot of the day.  I’d love to blow it up and put it in a gallery.

We incorporated the entire wedding party to recreate one of Jennie’s favourite shots from the e-session.

Leo & Jennie held their reception at Kirin out by Starlight in New West.  What a great venue, food was awesome!

Thank you Leo & Jennie for allowing Sandy & I to share in your special day.  You and your entire family, guests and wedding party were so gracious to us both.  We’re so blessed!

The Slideshow! Click play to see more from Leo & Jennie’s wedding.

Click here for Leo & Jennie’s dedicated slideshow page.