Posted on June 27, 2010
When I decided to move to Portland, one of the key reasons was that I enjoyed a particular vibe about the people here. It was a combination of rabid self-reliance, beautiful creativity, great taste, confidence, and overall happiness. I couldn’t really put my finger on just how to describe it. until yesterday. Lisa + Josh (and their friends and family) embodied that spirit to the fullest, and proved to me that Portland is the place where I want to be. They had a humble wedding at their beautiful home in SE Portland in their backyard. The design was stunning in a minimalist/crafty feeling and the execution of the DIY spirit was perfect. There was no stress, even for her sister that made ALL the food for the event – who had a constant smile on her face the whole time. Lisa + Josh, thank you for allowing me the privilege of being a part of your beautiful day.
Posted on June 17, 2010
As the Oregon wedding season is getting ready to launch (once the rain subsides) I wanted to share a very important topic with all brides and grooms to be – What to do with the guest camera issue.
Perhaps you have never even thought about it. Now is the time. If you invite 100 guests to your wedding, that is 100 cameras, and possibly 100 people trying to compete with your professional to get the shot. That is 100 flashes that are also jeopardizing your professional’s exposure. You should set some ground rules that allow your guests to relax and enjoy the day and keep your photographer from frazzled nerves.
1. Ask in your correspondence for guests to please leave their cameras home. Emphasize that you have worked hard at selecting a professional to do all the hard work and that everyone will have the chance to view images online. Guests should just relax and enjoy the festivities.
2. If you have a friend or relative that insists on shooting at the wedding, discuss this with your pro and make sure they can be accommodated. I remember one wedding where the bride’s uncle was an old-school shooter. I embraced his desire to take some shots of his niece and invited him along for some couple shots and even during the reception. I could tell he really wanted to be able to shoot, and by actually inviting him to be a part of it I was able to avoid conflict, and let him have his moment while still maintaining control.
3. Even if you ask guests to leave their cameras home, the plethora of iPhones and video-equipped phones will provide ample competition for your pro. As a professional, I have often set up formals and group shots and let the crowd “have their chance” where they can shoot away. However once they are done, I ask to be allowed to work. Discuss this type of arrangement with your photographer as well.
4. Of course you could do nothing. As documentary photographers, our job is to document your wedding. This includes your zany guests and their desire to record your day as well. Be prepared for many shots of other cameras and guests vying for position (which alone can make for some awesome shots).
Just think about what images you really want for your wedding…if you want the day documented as it unfolds, then let it happen. If you want truly “clean” images with no other interference, then be prepared to lay some ground rules for your guests. Either way, this is a very good conversation for you to have when selecting a professional photographer.
Scott
Posted on June 13, 2010
It seems like every time I am shooting an engagement session, I end up with a story. Tonight, as we were taking our last few shots, a loud group of guys was egging on the couple. I turned around to see a huge group of younger guys standing around, and they asked to get into a pic with my couple. Without hesitation, I waved them over. One of my favorite quotes of the shoot “Naw, guys no gang signs..this is a family picture.”
Awesome! Thanks Charlaine and Chris (and group of guys)! Check out more shots over on Facebook.
Posted on June 12, 2010
Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.
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