The shots everyone's gonna be talking about.
You may be wondering how I tackle newlywed shoots as a documentary photographer usually focused on candid moments. The things is, these shoots are often the one part of the day when you get to slow down and focus on each other, and I try to bring that energy to your final images. I'll instruct on posing — the complexity based on your comfort level — all while encouraging you to take the time to laugh together and talk about the crazy day you've been having. We keep it fun and, critically, we keep it short. For weddings less than 8 hours, I aim to get the shots I need and get you back to the party in 30 to 45 minutes — after all, you should get to enjoy those 8-dollars-a-head hors d'oeuvres.
The stories behind some of my favorite newlywed shots
Sarah & Drew
Williamsburg, VA
Sarah & Drew shared a love of literature. As certified former "library kid", I was psyched when they asked to take pictures among the stacks at the branch next to their outdoor ceremony. The staff thought it was fun; we only used the dim lighting to keep the feeling intact; and we didn't get shhh'd a single time! I call that a success.
Jasper & Samuel
Lexington, VA
I was actually assisting another photographer at Jasper and Samuel's wedding, but we hit it off and have been friends ever since! Jasper, who has a movement impairment, loved this shot of Samuel sweeping them off their feet. The ever-stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains served as a mystical backdrop for these two D&D heads.
Chandler & Patrick
Powhatan, VA
Had to include a B&W shot! Like I said before, these shoots are often a great excuse for you to get a breath of fresh air together. Using one of my favorite tools (a diffusion filter), I'm able to point the camera directly into light sources for a very dreamy look. Paired with the lights and ruins of The Mill at Fine Creek, I think this shot is magic.
Don't know what a first look is?
Not sure if it's a good fit with the day you're planning?
Scroll past this gallery for some info!
Ok. So what's a first look?
Instead of seeing each other for the first time as one of you is walking down the aisle, you set aside time before the ceremony to have that moment. Like any wedding activity, you can make this your own in an endless amount of ways. It could be a private moment, or you could be surrounded by your wedding party! You can do it at a romantic vista, or you can just come down the stairs to your fiancée! You can do it moments before the ceremony, or hours in advance!
What's the advantage?
Using some of the time before your ceremony for a first look can actually be huge for the time management of your wedding day. Traditionally, since the couple "couldn't" see each other before the ceremony, formal group pictures and newlywed pictures would be taken after the ceremony. This inevitably overlaps with another part of the day, usually the cocktail hour, so couples would have to be whisked away immediately after the ceremony for photo sessions. This might not be an issue for everyone, but for some, it's the very last way they'd like to celebrate. By making time for a first look, you can ensure some time to catch your breath together after the ceremony and go see your guests as soon as you'd like — all while knowing that you will still have those ever-important group and newlywed-style portraits taken care of.
The stories behind some of my favorite first looks
Sam & Kyrsten
Montgomery County, MD
Sam and Kyrsten did a first look by themselves in a small garden, and once they were finished, they had a moment to read their vows to each other in private. With their permission, I left a voice recorder between them so that they'd have those words forever before retreating to photograph from a distance (with ear plugs in!).
Casey & Kaytie
Waitsfield, VM
This shot will always give me chills. As two of my closest friends, I insisted that this couple let me handle the photography at their elopement weekend. Casey (the bride in the foreground) and her twin siblings lost their father when they were young. When I noticed the person-sized space between her mother and brother, I had to get this frame.
Laura & River
Richmond, VA
These two have one of my favorite meet-cute stories! Laura was very brave and introduced herself to the neighbor, only to find out she'd found her other half! Since both of them were planning on wearing suits, Laura wanted something special. I thought the embroidered wedding cape (designed by another local queer artist) was wonderful!
Ready to book your shoot?
Feel free to reach out using the link below. We can chat vision, pricing, sliding scale, and cover any concerns you may have. Let's get to know each other!
