winter weddings and first looks
a match made in heaven.
In my experience with weddings, August goes quickly into September that leads to early sunsets right into October where we’re trying to fit everything in before 6pm. And, every year it hits me like - how did I forget how early it gets dark “all of a sudden.” Every year, I’m absolutely thrilled with my ability to work with my couples to make the most out of our time together AND their wedding day experience by - YES - “getting the photos done before the ceremony”…but more importantly (!) extending the amount of time they spend together, and lowering the amount of stress that comes with fighting Mother Nature and Sunset!!
So while, of course, I won’t FORCE you to do a first look, but I will highly encourage it. I’ll ask you to talk to people you know who’ve been married recently and ask them what they did + what their opinion is about timing.
When I have a couple who does want to do a first look, we’ll usually work the timeline to do that about 2 hours before ceremony time, as long as there isn’t a lot of travel time involved. Of course this is variable to each couple, but generally if I have 2 hours + an agreeable crowd (and if they’re unagreeable, that’s my job to work with them!!) we can get through the meat of the photos then! And, voila! you’re done with photos once you’re refreshed and ready to walk down the aisle. Free for the night to enjoy + mingle + have zero stress about when you’re going to have time to sneak away!
things I'm digging
wedding and engagement images from Jessica Love Photography in Columbus Ohio at Jorgensen Farms Oak Grove. Featuring photography on film and digital shot on Canon R6 and Portrait 400 35mm film
AKA it’s summer and how do I have the brain space to share much more than bits and dabbles in all the stuff in front of my eyeballs!
In the realm of self-portrait photography, there exists a captivating allure in the juxtaposition of a woman and a flower crown, captured on the timeless medium of film. Each frame tells a story of self-discovery, as the woman embraces her own beauty and strength while adorned with delicate blossoms. Through the lens, her introspection is illuminated, petals whispering secrets of confidence and femininity. The soft hues of the film lend an ethereal quality, enhancing the dreamlike atmosphere of the image. With each click of the shutter, these self-portraits become a visual testament to the power of self-love and the magic of embracing one's authentic self.
WOW you guys - are we living in an alternate reality? That last paragraph was generated Ai on this blog, with the prompts: self portrait of woman with flower crown on film. So there you have it. But to actually explain, I think self portraits on film are a bit tricky, and overwhelming for me, but figured I’d like to have some to show of my peonies this spring.
weddings. SO many good weddings + shoots. And not like the typical it’s a wedding it’s going to be gorgeous type of things. Like, during the getting ready time, and the bride’s younger sister not wanting to get her hair done by a hairstylist…so the bridesmaids jumped in and made her feel SO comfortable…Like a groom’s grandmother shaking her cane while sitting at her table to dance….like a couple seeing their engagement photos and proclaiming how excited they are - now - for their wedding photos because they were SURE they were too awkward for photos to look good (LOL).
always rainbow over everything!
images shot on digital + film developed by Midwest Photo Exchange. Thanks for being here!
Emily + Brad / married at Nationwide
wedding at nationwide hotel and conference center
Raindrops + willing couples + a flash will forever hold a place in my heart! I love the Nationwide Hotel complex for ease in being all in one place for photos.
Jena + Cody | Married!
the thing about spring weddings is that they bring so much joy + excitement in a world that - in my world, anyways - is just starting to wake up from a long dark winter. The thing about spring weddings - DURING A PANDEMIC - is that the the joy is just the best thing ever. Enjoy a look into Jena + Cody’s wedding day!
Mary + Kyle | married!
Last year was obviously a weird one, but here’s one you might not have heard. I dreaded getting an email with a client from the upcoming three months. Anytime one came through with the name of an upcoming couple, I feared they were cancelling. LUCKILY, I had a lot of awesome people who decided they could safely and responsibly still get married - to some capacity - and keep me with them. To say I am grateful for my 2020 clients is the understatement of the year.
Mary + Kyle first got on my schedule for engagement photos in February of 2020, the last of the “normal.” They were planning on being married in a huge party at Nationwide Hotel + Conference Center…but decided to keep on with their plans to be married, but instead use Kyle’s family’s property in Delaware. It was perfect. It was a perfect September day, and I’m so excited for you to get a glimpse into their love.
Thanks for being here!
Gigi + Hayden | a backyard wedding!
I know 2020 was the year of backyard weddings, but I’ve loved backyard weddings for a whole lot longer than that :) Trendsetter. (thought enters brain to go through all my work and share more backyard weddings, yes? a thing I should do?)
Gigi + Hayden contacted me just 5 days before their wedding thinking they might want to have professional photos captured, and I’m so very glad they did. They were married at Gigi’s parent’s house, and it was just absolutely perfect! So green + lush.
The biggest take away from backyard weddings I’d like to make sure anyone considering to get married in a smaller scale like theirs: you don’t have to skimp on your photos. Photos with each other / family / bridal party or close friends. We can always find a sweet spot to go and spend some time alone!
