Stories from the Heart

Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer-The Weddingscape

We are John & Tamera Webb, your Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer. Today we would like to talk about one of our favorite features when photographing your couple, the “Weddingscape”.

Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography The Weddingscape North Georgia Wedding Photographer

The term , and first example of this type of photography, that I ever saw was by the fabulous Marcus Bell.

You certainly can see other examples of that particular style in use by other professional photographers. What we try to do with our clients is to emphasize that the weddingscape is intended to be wall art, and large wall art at that. Think nothing smaller than a 16×20 and we much prefer 20×30.

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography The Weddingscape North Georgia Wedding Photographer

One thing to keep in mind is that there is more to executing a weddingscape that just sticking your couple out there and shooting.

We like to prepare them with suggestions or hints that will trigger an action and reaction.

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography The Weddingscape North Georgia Wedding Photographer

Once your couple is set-up, give them time to ease into the area and the interaction with each other. Go for a series of shots to capture the milliseconds of emotion and facial expressions etc.

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography The Weddingscape North Georgia Wedding Photographer

Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography The Weddingscape North Georgia Wedding Photographer

One advantage you have is you will normally be shooting this, regardless of your lens choice, so far off the couple that their ability to relax and be themselves with each other should be pronounced.

I will often ask them to stay put while I check a few things, intentionally dropping my camera while keeping an eye on them. As soon as I get the moment I was waiting for, you quickly raise and shoot. It requires sensitivity to your clients, a good antennae and excellent timing.

Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography The Weddingscape North Georgia Wedding Photographer

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography The Weddingscape North Georgia Wedding Photographer

Timing for weather and light conditions is very important.

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography The Weddingscape North Georgia Wedding Photographer

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography The Weddingscape North Georgia Wedding Photographer

Adding weddingscapes to your portfolio and skill-set will offer your clients unique and beautiful wall art.

 


Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography The Weddingscape North Georgia Wedding Photographer

Remember to still shoot for the timing of emotion and moments and with your own heart.

We are John & Tamera Webb. We operate a Wedding Photography Studio in Blue Ridge Ga.

Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography The Weddingscape North Georgia Wedding Photographer

Shoot with your heart on the shutter and happy shooting!

 

What to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer

What to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer

What to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer. We are John & Tamera Webb. We operate a Wedding Photography Studio in Blue Ridge Georgia. Recently we were contacted by a publication to give our take on what to look for when hiring a wedding photographer. While we do not fully agree with everything on the list that publication recommended, it did start us thinking, what would WE be looking for when hiring a wedding photographer for ourselves or our family?

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography What to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Best Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography What to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Best Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer

 

  1. The very first thing we would be looking for when hiring a wedding photographer is if the individual or studio was certified.  As we have previously discussed, it is true that there are excellent photographers who are not certified nor are members of any organization. However starting a search looking for a certified professional photographer guarantees that photographer has met a certain technical standard and passed a rigorous written exam and is maintaining educational credits to further their knowledge and their craft. This directly impacts the product they will deliver to their clients. Why does certification matter? Ask yourself this, is your Doctor board certified? They are not required to be but studies show patients have a greater trust and comfort in a physician that is certified. An analogy I really like is this; I have a drivers license but I am not a professional driver. With photography the tools are often confused for the results potential clients seek so the Uncle who has a new camera is considered fit to photography a wedding. Stephen King might have a Macbook Pro and so could I, but it doesn’t mean I can write like him…You can read more about certification for the professional photographer HERE:   Legitimate organizations such as The Professional Photographers of America are an excellent place to start your search. You can check them out HERE:     Blue Ridge Wedding Photography What to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Best Blue Ridge Wedding PhotographerBlue Ridge Wedding Photography What to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Best Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer
  2. Love their style.. This seems like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised the number of photographers hired with little to no in depth review of their work. Often they are later asked to replicate styles on Pinterest or Instagram, or worse yet an assumption exist that has never really been discussed with your photographer. So dig in, View their work both in the past and more recent. If you don’t like what you see the chances of you ending up satisfied with your images and album are not good.Blue Ridge Wedding Photography What to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Best Blue Ridge Wedding PhotographerBlue Ridge Wedding Photography What to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Best Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer
  3. Ask to see a few weddings beginning to end. Listen, I LOVE the hero shots, BUT, showing what will be seen beginning to end lets you see how the entirety of the wedding will be captured AND what will make up your album..which leads us to…Blue Ridge Wedding Photography What to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Best Blue Ridge Wedding Photographer
  4. DO NOT HIRE ANY PHOTOGRAPHER WHO IS NOT SUPPLYING AN ACTUAL ALBUM!  If the photographer does not recommend and sell prints, wall art and albums then the chances are good they do not value their own art they are providing, and if they don’t, why would you? In other words if it’s just a disc or USB drive avoid it. The importance of printed , heirloom products cannot be overstated.  As a matter of fact there is a whole movement about it. You can check it out HERE:
  5. Make sure you “click”. While you do have to love the style, ensure their technical skill-set, see that they value themselves as artist and true, professional photographers, none of it works if their isn’t a solid connection. Capturing beautiful, unique art requires access to people in an almost intimate way. They has to be trust and faith and the connection needs to be built where a couple can act almost if they were alone with each other while the photographer documents and creates. We spoke about that on an earlier blog post and you can see it HERE:
  6. The money has to fit! People are surprised that we understand budgets but avoiding budgets is avoiding reality. Money DOES matter, but it isn’t the first requirement to meet when searching for a photographer. Keep in mind the photographs are what is left after the dress is packed away, the flowers are dead and gone , the food and cake are eaten and forgotten, but the images, the images will last a lifetime!

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography What to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer A Day in The Life Photography Best Blue Ridge Wedding PhotographerWe are John & Tamera Webb. We are A Day in The Life Photography. We live in Blue Ridge Ga. We shoot with our hearts on the shutter and it looks like this…

 

Blessings,

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Why Learning & Practice Still Matter.

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Why Learning & Practice Still Matter. Ongoing Education for the Photographer, why it is critical for your clients Part 2. In our last blog entry we discussed why ongoing education is critical for the professional photographer and your clients. As a professional who has shot from Blue Ridge to the Caribbean, I can qualify how ongoing education can change your business and your life, and how it changes what you provide your clients.

Learning & Practice and how it impacts your clients.

I can’t count the number of times when I have been discussing professional organizations such as the Professional Photographers of America Check them out HERE: The Georgia Professional Photographers Association Check them out HERE: an affiliate of the PPA and the Certified Professional Photographers Program See more about that HERE:

and have them be roundly dismissed.

The rationale and reasoning you hear many times is that ‘it cost too much” or “my clients don’t care about that stuff”. We briefly discussed this in our last blog post which you can find it HERE: 

When we assume that, how then do we develop professionally and artistically? Since maturation in art and business is very rarely known to grow and develop in a vacuum, what does the professional photographer use to learn, to grow, to develop, to mature?

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography why learning & practice still matter. Ongoing education for the professional photographer part 2 Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

I am of the opinion that your art starts to change when you are exposed to so many who are successful in their business and in their photography.  We all develop at different levels and at various times. The next step in ongoing education is to take advantage of classes. These can be ongoing through the year, some are even available online and of course there is a bonanza of them at Imaging USA as both pre-convention all day classes followed by the briefer classes that run through the convention. Imaging USA just wrapped up for this year. You can check it out HERE:

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography why learning & practice still matter. Ongoing education for the professional photographer part 2 Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography why learning & practice still matter. Ongoing education for the professional photographer part 2 Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography why learning & practice still matter. Ongoing education for the professional photographer part 2 Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

The Professional Photographers of America isn’t the only association who puts some emphasis on education (Although it is my personal choice for association and education, degrees etc). You can check out the Wedding & Portrait Photographer’s International  also known as WPPI. See them HERE:

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography why learning & practice still matter. Ongoing education for the professional photographer part 2 Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography why learning & practice still matter. Ongoing education for the professional photographer part 2 Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

The next and what leads to an ongoing final step is print competition. This alone will open up and rapidly expand your art and take it to new heights you hadn’t foreseen.

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography why learning & practice still matter. Ongoing education for the professional photographer part 2 Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography why learning & practice still matter. Ongoing education for the professional photographer part 2 Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

And it isn’t just your photography that develops. How you structure and run your business can have a huge impact on legal issues, profitability and sustainability, and yes those things do indeed benefit your clients.

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography why learning & practice still matter. Ongoing education for the professional photographer part 2 Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography why learning & practice still matter. Ongoing education for the professional photographer part 2 Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

So when I hear that there is no need for ongoing education for the professional photographer or that clients don’t care about such things I have to ask, what is your business ,your art and your clients worth to you?

If you genuinely wish to make a living at this, to be the best YOU at this, your chosen profession shouldn’t you be educating your clients as you should be yourself?

They deserve it. So do you.

So does the industry.

Push yourself. Learn. Grow. Be More.

We shoot with our hearts on the shutter and it looks like this.

John & Tamera

Blessings,

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Education for the Photographer, why it is critical for your clients

The importance of ongoing education for the professional photographer

 

How ongoing education affects your photography and what you offer your clients

 

Chances are when you decided to become a professional photographer it was because you loved the idea of creating images. You may have started because images you took of your friends, family or children were viewed by your friends with appreciation and with the mantra “You should do that for a living”. At that point the idea of ongoing education for a professional photographer likely had never entered your head.

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photographyBlue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photographyBlue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

There is  certainly is nothing wrong with that. Many of us started that way. I myself started when my Grandfather who worked for Eastman Kodak would bring home film and cameras(or filim as he pronounced it. Keep in mind this was Rochester, North Chili to be exact)  and I was exposed early to some wonderful, photojournalistic work that still shaped what I do today.

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

And no matter who you are that work you produce, especially when you step into the professional realm, it is going to change.

One of the most intimate characteristics of being a professional photographer is the pride but sensitivity your work generates within you.

So how do you go about getting better while handling criticism of your work that is hopefully constructive?

How do you get better without becoming nothing but an imitator?

The answer is, in my opinion, ongoing education.

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

I am writing this in a timely fashion right after Imaging USA, the convention and expo hosted by The Professional Photographers of America.

You can check the folks out from the PPA HERE:

And you can see and learn more about Imaging USA specifically by checking them out HERE:

It is the longest running expo and convention for professional photographers dating back to 1880.  Since its inception it has never stopped growing, changing and adapting.

So why attend?

Why take classes?

Why learn, change and adapt?

Because I believe it is impossible to develop in a vacuum.  I believe separating ourselves out retards the constructive, critical eyes we need to continue to develop.

That willingness, if you can develop it opens you up to people and places (and images) that can change the way you shoot…

If you let it.

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

Because we all develop differently and at different speeds one of the best platforms to accomplish this is by imaging competition.

You will here some photographers say “well the PPA cost too much and it is only about the money”. The PPA is a non-profit organization and while there are costs associated with it when you compare the many, many included benefits it really becomes an incredible value.

Then there is the discussion of degrees.  Again, and I have heard this numerous times “it costs too much to take the CPP exam and maintain your status”. The truth is it is very reasonable and all funds are used to develop and further the program and education for CPP’s and professional photographers.

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Ongoing education for the professional photographer Imaging USA Developing your work Blue ridge professional photography

Lasty you will hear “clients don’t care about degrees and memberships”.

I would concede there is truth to that statement….however just as with a Doctor, who isn’t required to be board certified but does so anyway. It sends the message that this professional meets a certain standard. That the photographer understands photographic concepts and is reproducing those for his clients.

Finally, this all starts to have an impact on your own work, on your expectations, and on your pushing and developing yourself. This can and does show up as the work clients seek you out for, hire you for and become a referral base for you.

Ongoing education for the professional photographer is not only important, it is critical for success.

In the end Ongoing education for you, the professional photographers helps you be who you want to be.

It helps you BE MORE.

 

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Jamie & Amber

Blue Ridge  Wedding Photography Jamie & Amber

A Blue Ridge Georgia Intimate Wedding

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism

 

Jamie & Amber’s wonderful wedding included some rain and some fast incoming cold. We encourage ALL our couples to think seriously about a 2nd shoot. Sometimes that is due to weather, sometimes just to expand the amount of images that are JUST about them! With a nod to personal choice, here is why we always suggest a “shoot 2”.

The pressure is off. You are not worried about timelines or feeding your guest or whether Uncle Charley is happy. It’s just you two, your photographers and some grand fun!

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga PhotojournalismBlue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism

Personally I am a huge fan of the getting ready portion. So much happens that, in my opinion, is spiritual in nature due to the enormity of the day.

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga PhotojournalismBlue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga PhotojournalismBlue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism

The ceremony was held at Salem #2 Baptist Church with Pastor Randy Hooper Presiding. The Reception immediately followed.

You can check out those wonderful folks HERE:

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism

Shoot 2 was held at a new venue in Mineral Bluff Ga. As of yet I have not been notified of the name. (Yes, it’s THAT new!)

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism

When shooting the couple, you can direct them insofar as locations etc. but try to leave enough of a “hands-off” approach where they can be themselves…shooting with a slightly longer lens can get you out of the immediate vicinity yet pull you close enough for those all important moments of chemistry that often occurs BETWEEN the poses. Be ready for them!

Jamie & Amber are a quiet couple. But, given some directions, time and some trust and you get wonderful emotion between them!

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism

 


Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism

 

We love to balance our approach with our award winning photojournalism, true intimate, emotional moments and distinctive “WeddingScapes” that become cherished one-of-a-kind wall art.

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism

As previously mentioned, we do some light directing then we move as far away as possible and let the chemistry and the moment take over between the couple. Watch closely. Have your antennae up and a quick finger on the shutter.

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The Life Photography The Storytellers Jamie & Amber Intimate Wedding Photography Blue Ridge Ga Photojournalism

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography, the importance of the Reception cannot be overstated.

At the all important reception you can see some photographers start to dial back and slow down. I would challenge you that the reception is one of the most constant moving areas of shooting you will have at the wedding.

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception

Remember that when shooting the wedding reception it is a time to stay fully in tune with the emotions and timing. Some beautiful expressions can pass very quickly. It is your job to have excellent timing and to shoot with a heart that is in tune with your clients.

As cameras and equipment continue to evolve it is easier than ever to get wonderfully exposed, pin sharp images.  The question is that what is always called for? Personally we, and our clients, see the beauty in allowing and even encouraging movement that shows the kinetic energy of the wedding reception.

The above images were shot at The beautiful Marlow House.

You can check them out HERE:

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The ReceptionBlue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The ReceptionBlue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The ReceptionBlue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception

Keep in mind once the first dance is done that other special dances can follow, and those should never be treated with any lessening of importance. Fathers, Mothers and even family reactions in the background can frame a wedding reception image and show its enormous importance.

The above images were taken at Gorgeous Indigo Falls.

You can check out these fine folks HERE:

and at The Historic and Magnificent Tate House

You can find them HERE:

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The ReceptionBlue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception

 

I personally like to pack and keep battery operated fairy lights available. Shooting through these can give a different look and texture. You can see by the above images in some motion was accentuated by dragging the shutter and rotating the camera.

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The ReceptionBlue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The ReceptionBlue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception

The speeches portion along with any celebration that is not something that is scheduled on the timeline i.e. think of everyone surrounding the couple….in cases like that do not shy away from motion and step up and shoot overhead. Celebrations where the groom bride or both are hoisted above may pass quickly. Keep yourself involved and shoot as quickly as possible.

You will notice in many of our images that we really utilize the family and friends as the background. After all, that is the best background of all.

In closing, the reception is NOT a time to lean against the bar, eat peanuts and congratulate yourself on a job well done. Stay in touch. Stay in Tune and look for peak emotions that usually pass very quickly but leave an undeniable impression.

We are John & Tamera Webb.

We are A Day in The Life Photography.

We are Storytellers.

We shoot with our hearts on the shutter and it looks like this.

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The ReceptionBlue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The ReceptionBlue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Reception

Rockmart Wedding Photography-In The Woods

Rockmart Georgia has some wonderful spots for wedding photography. But there is a location called “In The Woods”that is truly unique and special. This wedding venue is an absolute must see gem.  Owner Catherine Castleberry has created something so special it really must be seen and experienced to fully appreciate it. Kathie Schramm is the Wedding Coordinator and day of magician that keeps everything on-track with a gentle firmness and a beaming, genuine smile.  These images are from the Rockmart Wedding Photography at In The Woods for Remington & Kara Anne, a very special couple whose model beauty is only matched by their huge and sincere hearts which were on full display on this day like no other.

We hope you enjoy the wedding photography album for Remington & Kara Anne at In The Woods Wedding and Event Venue

Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography

You can check out more about our friends at In The Woods Weddings & Events HERE:

 

The Mother of the bride, Ms Rhonda Hilliard was the drive, heart and focus behind all the planning and a beautifully carried out wedding.

Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography

 

The getting ready is always, to us, a very special and spiritual time. You can feel it in the atmosphere, the anticipation of something special and of enormous importance about to happen.

Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe PhotographyRockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography

 

Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe PhotographyRockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography

First Looks are always special, memorable and different. In this the Brides Grandparents and brother and Nephew see her fully adorned as a bride to be, and for the last time as a single young woman. Emotion and true moments trump poses, we believe, every day of the week and twice on Sunday.

Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography

Minutes before the ceremony offers the precious, small moments that help show the story.

Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography

Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe PhotographyRockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography

It is difficult to find a more picturesque location for the ceremony and the vows than In The Woods offers. What makes this venue so unique is the obvious thought Catherine Castleberry put into the layout. Spread out, yet somehow all connected with plenty of room for people to feel relaxed.

Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography

Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography

If you are fortunate enough to have a couple who trust you and “let’s you in” then you get a rare glimpse of who they really are. That is so very apparent with Remington & Kara Anne. From the palpable love you could feel they have for one another, to the overwhelming joy from their family and friends. This was a magical night.

Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography

Not every love story at a wedding is about the new couple. Some are 20-30-40 or even 50 years or more in the making. If you’re lucky you to get to see those celebrated as was the case here!

 

Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography

 

 

Rockmart Wedding Photography In The Woods Events and Weddings Blue Ridge Wedding Photography A Day in The LIfe Photography

If you are in the market for a gorgeous, unique, well thought out event venue, check out In The Woods Wedding and Event Venue. You’ll be very happy you did!

 

 

 

 

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography-Bride,Groom, Family & Friends

 Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. Photographing the bride, groom, family and friends.

Over the past few blog post, we have been going through the wedding day in order. We have covered the getting ready portion and the actual ceremony. The norm is that after those portions you will have an opportunity to photograph the new couple as well as friends, family and the wedding party (provided there were no plans to photograph everyone earlier prior to ceremony).

blue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytellingblue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytelling

blue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytellingblue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytelling

For the images above, you see a mix of pre ceremony and post ceremony images. When working with either, the truth is you are working on very tight timelines. You are hired to create beautiful imagery for your clients so being aware that not every beautiful portrait or moment will be “standard”. In fact, LOOK for ways to show the beauty of the day in non-conventional ways.

The Images above were captured at The Historic Tate House. You can check them out HERE:

 

blue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytelling blue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytellingblue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytellingblue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytelling

Above we see examples of a bit more traditional images done. Do not be afraid to to setup an action-reaction setup for your shoot. As an example telling the bridesmaids to tell the best joke they know to one another or to just have fun can often result in them really enjoying themselves and having real fun..and when that occurs and is captured you clients and couples will LOVE it. Nothing is more prized than seeing the real essence of people you love. It makes it unique. It makes it priceless.

Images above were taken at both The Historic Tate House or at Cedars Plantation. You can check them out HERE:

blue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytellingblue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytellingblue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytellingblue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytelling

Keep in mind that while you are planning and preparing for the “pre” or”post” time before or after the ceremony, time will be limited. Do not be surprised if timelines get off and you are forced to work under high pressure. One key we have found and used again and again is to ensure there is some true relationship with the couple. Having them put their trust in you means you are much more likely to have the be themselves while you shoot and keep them calm. Planning is required, but so is keeping your heart, senses and awareness open. Your job is to tell a story that reflects your clients and who they are, and who they are especially with each other…

Weddings above were shot at Antique Acres. You can check them out HERE:

Also at The beautiful Whitlock Inn. You can see them HERE:

And finally in Piney River Ranch in Vail Colorado. You can see this stunning venue HERE:

blue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytelling

blue ridge wedding photography bride groom family friends wedding party a day in the life photography couples storytelling

For us during the “post” portion of imaging, we like to go for a “Weddingscape”….position the bride and groom in a location that shows as much of the story in one shot as possible…

 

In closing we are still big believers that shooting with your heart on the shutter is what, in the end, allows you to capture the essence of your clients, have exquisite timing for moments of peak emotion and bring a relaxed fun feel to your wedding photography

 

We tell stories of the heart…and it looks like this.

 

 

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography- Photographing The Ceremony

In virtually every type of wedding photography there is a ceremony. How to photograph that ceremony so emotions and the story are told is an important part of our craft. Whether it is a wedding ceremony in Blue Ridge Georgia or Vail Colorado photographing the ceremony is critical

In Blue Ridge Wedding Photography The ceremony in wedding photography can offer varied and unique requirements as church’s, officiants, cultures and expectations can alter what is available, how it is approached and what to photograph.

Wedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods Weddings Wedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods Weddings Wedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods WeddingsWedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods Weddings

 

When viewing many examples of wedding photography the ceremony is often given the single image or two representation. If however you are attuned to your clients and their emotional reactions to each other and moments the ceremony can be a veritable treasure trove of emotional content. In the above examples it would be easy to believe the processional, ceremony and recessional would be limited to a few obligatory images. As you can see above, each can make a powerful and emotional statement. Here is where we tell our students in our Super 1 Day Classes to stay on point, stay alert and shoot for those key moments that are unique to your client.

 

Wedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods Weddings Wedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods Weddings Wedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods Weddings

Remember to give your self time to work the angles. If allowed by the venue or church, getting close with a long lens at the corners can show a great deal of emotion going on, from tears of joy to an overwhelmingly beautiful contentment.

Wedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods Weddings Wedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods Weddings Wedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods Weddings Wedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods Weddings

Once The ceremony is underway, keep your eyes and heart peeled for key moments. One thing to be aware of is those key moments, especially during the ceremony are usually incredibly brief. Keep focused in and on your toes and try to anticipate the moments before they happen.  I cannot stress enough how tightly the success of that is woven into the relationship you build with your clients.

Wedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods Weddings Wedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods WeddingsWedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods WeddingsWedding Photography The Ceremony A Day in The Life Photography Blue Ridge Wedding Photography Remington & Kara Anne In The Woods Weddings

The landscape image, known as the weddingscapes, are also a great place to show emotion and feeling, even with a wide shot. Look for moments of prayer or impact by weather to show not just what the moments looked like but what they FEEL like.

In closing shooting the ceremony is not a time to relax and rattle off a few images, but a perfect place to mine for emotional content.

Finding a photographer who is a consummate professional is, in our opinion, key to getting the wedding story told as it should be.

An excellent place to start is at the Professional Photographers of America Website that houses the ability to search Photographers who are members and/or certified professional photographers.

You can check them out HERE:

 

 

Blue Ridge Wedding Photography. The Importance of The Getting Ready

Often in Blue Ridge Ga, and perhaps everywhere, brides looks for a way to reduce cost in wedding photography. One of those we have noticed is where brides will decline coverage of the getting ready portion of their day in an effort to save cost. We think that is a huge mistake. Hopefully these images will help change that mindset.

Why getting ready images are so important to the story.

 

In wedding photography there exist so many different couples with different expectations. Money, and in saying money we mean budget, is also different for everyone. Many couples today look to reduce cost wherever they can. In some examples, we have encountered couples who may opt to hire us to document their day, but to reduce cost by reducing hours and eliminating the getting ready portion of their coverage.

We think that is a HUGE mistake.

We hope you will agree after viewing and reading some of these pieces of stories from a a day like no other.

 

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blue ridge Georgia wedding photography getting ready images a day in the life photography getting ready pictures getting ready shoots

The above images were to be an emotional wedding day, but I believe the above images highlight the bride seeing her fairy-tale come true. This bride was also a dance teacher so the images of the student children helping lift her dress and her image as if surrounded by a cloud remains a favorite of ours.

Wedding at Indigo Falls. Check them out HERE:

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In the above example the getting ready portion for the groom was full of much laughter and a few genuine tears when the enormity of the day was realized.

A Stanley House Wedding. You can check them out HERE:

blue ridge Georgia wedding photography getting ready images a day in the life photography getting ready pictures getting ready shoots

 

 

 

After dressing, the first look between mother and daughter brought on immediate tears.

Wedding at The Historic Tate House. See these wonderful folks HERE:

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If you look you will see tender moments and poetry in motion during the getting ready.

Wedding at Rocky’s Lake Estate. See more of that beautiful venue HERE:

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Portraits are not limited to after everything is done. Keep your eyes open for opportunities to capture portraits in non-traditional settings.

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In closing, when speaking with couples encourage them that your job is to tell a story. Every story, when complete, has a beginning, a middle and an end. Skipping the getting ready images misses out on, in our opinion, spiritual and emotional moments that like the day, are unlike anything else and thereby deserves to be documented.

We shoot with our hearts on the shutter and it looks like this.

 

Blessings,

 

John & Tamera