Tammy and Weston had the pleasure of being my first wedding of the 2016 season. I would be lying if I said I wasn't a tad bit anxious and nervous going in but I'm actually like that before every single wedding. If I wasn't, I would probably be worried. Once I arrived at the church and starting taking photos of the venue everything fell into place and the entire day went by very quickly. Before guests started arriving I used the opportunity to grab a few detail photos and also get set up. I had done one other wedding at this church before so I was already familiar with it.
About 30 minutes before the ceremony guests started arriving and I just did my thing. I looked for all those moments when people don't realize you are photographing them. Those natural moments, are I think, some of the most genuine and memorable ones of the day. But then again, that is what 90 percent of my wedding photography is comprised of. This year, I am going to incorporate a lot more black and white photography as I think certain candid moments really shine when you strip away the colour . So you will see a mix of colour and black and white photos throughout.
Once guests settled in, it was time to start the ceremony. The wedding part and parents made their way down the aisle and once Tammy arrived at the alter it began. As with every wedding I photograph, the ceremony was very lovely and very laid back. These are my favourite kind of weddings because there is no rush and it allows me to just walk around (discreetly) and get photos of the guests and of course the wedding party.
After the ceremony, guests gathered in the entrance and congratulated Tammy and Weston. We then went back into the part of the church where the ceremony was and captured some of the family portraits. We had to stick indoors because it was blistering cold outside. Shortly thereafter it was time to head to This Old Barn, which is where the reception took place.
I showed up around 5 which allowed me to get a lot of great detail shots before most of the guests arrived. As well, it allowed me to get ready to photograph the guests as they made their way in. Just like the ceremony, it was a very relaxed reception. I simply went with the flow and came away with so many fantastic photos of people interacting and eventually watching the speeches and the first dances.
As the dancing began, I took a few more photos and then my night was done. Before I left we quickly got a good shot of Tammy and Weston eating the cake and a final family photo with the relatives. It was such a fun wedding and a good transition into the 2016 wedding season. It's going to be a super busy year and I know if every couple is like Tammy and Weston, I'm in for the best season to date!
