Michelle and Nick at Great Oak Manor
Why would a black and white Colorado wedding photojournalist be covering a wedding at Great Oak Manor on Maryland’s Eastern Shore? I lived in Washington DC for 25 years and still go back to the area a few times a year for couples who find me through referrals. But in this case, a bit of history was involved. Not everyone feels comfortable hiring a photographer from half way across the country, but I think I understood why Michelle seemed confident about me. As she told me, she still likes looking at the pictures I made when I covered her first wedding.
I wholeheartedly believe in second chances, and if that seems more like a concept than something that strikes at your emotional core, wait. I’ve lived long enough to fervently believe in them as well, and sometimes their mere possibility is the only thing that keeps you going. We all need them eventually, so when you see things work out so well in the end for someone you really like, your happiness for them comes in waves. Nick radiates humility, warmth, and sensitivity. He is the real deal. When your best plans and aspirations are unraveling all around you, it’s hard not to see yourself in free fall. In the darkness, we never think we’ll land in a higher place. But it happens.
Michelle’s son Ian burns off some energy on the shore of the Chesapeake Bay. As someone with an 8-year-old daughter, I can say this is highly recommended.
Ian catches cheese balls thrown from second floor balcony. Are you sensing a pattern here?
Not all flower girls toss petals in aisle. Some of them toss them on the ground on windy days before entering the ceremony.
Even if you have to duck into an alcove, find a moment for yourselves.
This was in a fairly crowded room, in the middle of cocktails. I’ve covered a lot of weddings, but I always have to be mindful of the fact that I don’t know in advance when or where the best pictures are going to be made. Unexpected moments aren’t on the schedule. I’ve had well-meaning DJs and videographers tell me “there’s nothing happening until 6:00.” There’s always something happening. When things are moving slowly, or seem static, it isn’t down time. It means you have to look harder.
While I’m now a black and white Colorado wedding photojournalist, I do miss the soft light from all the humidity on the East Coast. Not the humidity itself, just the soft light.
What does a wedding photo look like? What constitutes a picture of the kids? Are there rules?
I loved the reflection.
I really like it when kids from an earlier marriage are included in the ceremony and festivities. It’s important that they feel a part of things, rather than having something happening to them.
Nick’s nephew was like the Energizer Bunny. Just everywhere.
There are stories and subplots everywhere during a wedding.
That point in the evening when you’re having a great time, but the Energizer Bunny’s batteries wear out.
