There is something magical about weddings that make the memories of these truly special days immortal in memory. Although Cat and Damien’s wedding happened on the 24th of September 2016, looking at them now, I can recall the details vividly. As an artist, I truly believe that every picture is meant to tell a story; and it is always my goal as a wedding photographer to seize both the excitement and the tenderness that fill weddings with so much energy.
Cat and Damien’s wedding was something out of a storybook. Every scene beckoned me to capture it forever as a picture. From the blue sky in the morning as the family gathered to prepare. To the the tears of love and pride that streamed down the mum’s face as she watched her daughter transform into a stunning bride.
Later, the beautiful pastures of the Butterfactory Restaurant in Pyree, New South Wales that stretched out in a full panorama. The light breeze, the laughter and excitement… Looking at these photographs, I can hear it and picture it all still.
What strikes me the most about weddings is how honestly people smile at one another. Weddings seem to bring out the very essence of joy, and you can see it in the eyes of all those you meet. To take storytelling photography that really picks up the emotions of the moment means looking not just through the lens of the camera but to find the angles and opportunities where everything is natural.
Wedding receptions are sometimes rehearsed. Vows are practiced. The emotions never are. The love in the eyes of a groom and bride as they see one another in a whole new light alters everyone’s perspective–even mine. I think that is why I love photographing weddings so much. To get that perfect shot of the “I do,” the first kiss, and the celebrations that ensue is not only a welcome challenge, it is my favourite kind. So many people seek to become something different in front of the camera, or they stiffen and get tense out of fear of looking odd; but at weddings, everyone shines with a true glow.
As the day began to wind down and the sun begins to set, sending rays streaking across the sky with various shades of warm pinks and oranges, I ventured out with the newlyweds to a single blossoming tree. Again, I like to think of every image containing some kind of meaning. I hope you can see what we saw in this tree: the promise of new beginnings. No one sees the leafless limbs, only the buds and flowers decorating every twig.
For these two, this chapter of their life together is just beginning.
And as the sun went down, drawing the celebratory day to an end, I was amazing to watch Cat and Damien find some time together in one another’s arms. Far from the crowds inside the restaurant, they danced. The lights behind them softened their edges, and it seemed at that moment they had really become one life, one entity, instead of two separate people.
Yeah, that is definitely what makes weddings so incredible. To capture these memories and be able to see the happiness in my client’s when they receive them after the ceremony is, to me, the best form of payment. For anyone looking for a Canberra wedding photographer, I would love to serve you. It is my hope to capture those special moments when two lives become one and immortalize them for you to relive that magic again and again.
