A Journey of Love and Lights: From Vermont to Las Vegas
There is something magical about the idea of traveling almost 3,000 miles cross-country for a special occasion, especially when that occasion involves love, celebration, and the glitz of Las Vegas. Take a second and imagine the quaint charm of Vermont meeting the vibrant energy of Sin City! A journey filled with anticipation, adventure, and unforgettable moments. That's precisely what happened when I, a wedding photographer from the land of maple syrup and Ben & Jerry’s, embarked on a journey to capture the essence of love at the Bliss Wedding Chapel, followed by a reception at the luxurious Cosmopolitan Hotel in the city of Sin.
The Journey Begins: Vermont to Las Vegas
Leaving behind the serene beauty of Vermont's rolling hills and rustic charm, I packed my camera gear, fueled by excitement for the adventure that awaited me. The journey itself was your normal lawless land of airports and hurry up and wait. But it phases you a bit less knowing what lies ahead. From the quaintness of northern Vermont to the neon-lit streets of Las Vegas. Each mile brought me closer to my destination and the promise of a memorable wedding celebration.
Capturing Love at Bliss Wedding Chapel
Nestled amidst the glitz and glamour of the Las Vegas Strip lies the iconic Bliss Wedding Chapel. A sanctuary of love, where dreams come true and vows for a lifetime are exchanged. As I stepped into the chapel, I was greeted by an atmosphere charged with anticipation and joy. The wedding ceremony was a spectacle of emotions. A beautiful blend of love, laughter, and tears of happiness. Against the backdrop of the chapel's elegant décor, I worked my magic, immortalizing each heartfelt moment through my lens. From the tender exchange of vows to the joyous cheers of family and friends, every click of my camera captured the essence of Shelby and Adrian’s love story.
A Reception Fit for Royalty: The Cosmopolitan Hotel
After the vows were exchanged and the rings were placed, it was time to continue the celebration in style. The Cosmopolitan Hotel, renowned for its luxurious amenities and breathtaking views of the Las Vegas strip, provided the perfect setting for the wedding reception. As guests arrived at the hotel, they were greeted by a spectacle of elegance and sophistication. From the lavish décor to the sparkling champagne, every detail was meticulously planned to ensure an unforgettable experience for the newlyweds and their guests.
Against the backdrop of the city's glittering lights, the reception unfolded into a night of revelry and romance and rememberance. I continued to weave my magic, capturing candid moments of laughter, heartfelt speeches, and clandestine moments. Each photograph was a testament to the love that filled the room, a love that transcended miles and brought together souls from different corners of the country.
Conclusion: A Journey to Remember
As the night drew to a close and the final drops of champed were sipped, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for being part of such a special journey. From the small town charm of Vermont to the dazzling lights of Las Vegas, every moment was a reminder of the transformative power of love and the joy of capturing memories that would last a lifetime. For the newlyweds, the journey was just beginning. A journey filled with laughter, love, and countless adventures yet to come. And for me, the journey back to Vermont was not just a return home but a reflection on the countless stories I had witnessed and the profound impact of love in all its forms.
In the end, whether it's a picturesque barn in Vermont or a luxurious hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, love knows no boundaries. It's a journey that transcends time and place, bearing memories that will be cherished for a lifetime to come.
How Your Wedding Venue Sets the Stage for Unforgettable Photos
So, you've found the one, got the ring, and now you're knee-deep in wedding planning. The to-do list is longer than your favorite novel, and every decision feels like it carries the weight of the world. But here's a little nugget of wisdom from someone who's been behind the lens of countless weddings: your choice of venue can make or break the aesthetic and feel of your photos.
Let's take a look into why your wedding venue is the unsung hero and often most overlooked character of your wedding album.
The Backdrop Matters
Picture this: you, in a stunning gown, surrounded by your closest friends and family, exchanging vows with the love of your life. Now, imagine this magical moment against a backdrop that leaves something to be desired. A plain wall or lackluster surroundings can dull the sparkle of your special day.
Choosing a venue with character – be it a charming garden, a rustic barn, or a beach with waves crashing in the background can elevate your photos to a whole new level. The right backdrop not only adds visual interest but also tells a story about your unique love story.
Lighting
Lighting! The unsung hero of photography. The way the sun casts its warm glow during a golden hour ceremony or the romantic ambiance created by string lights in an intimate venue, these are the moments that make a photographer's day. Your venue sets the stage for these lighting masterpieces.
Consider the natural light available for your ceremony, reception, and at different times of the day in your chosen venue. Think about how the lighting will complement your color scheme and enhance the overall mood and feel of your photos.
A skilled photographer can work with any lighting situation, but a well chosen venue will make their job that much easier (and your photos that much more breathtaking).
Seamless Storytelling
Your wedding day is a narrative, a story of two lives intertwining. Your venue plays a crucial role in how that story unfolds and will be forver viewed in your photos. A cohesive venue that aligns with your theme and style creates a seamless flow from one chapter to the next. It's like having a beautiful frame for each moment a frame that enhances, not distracts from the story.
Whether you opt for a chic cityscape or a tranquil countryside, the right venue will help your photographer weave a visual tale that reflects the essence of your love story. The details of your venue, from the architecture and decor to the layout, become integral elements in the storybook of your wedding day.
Comfort is Key
Let's not forget the practical side of things. A comfortable and well-thought-out venue ensures an stress-free environment for you, your bridal party, and your guests. When everyone is at ease, the smiles are genuine, the laughter is infectious, and those candid moments (and also the best photos) become pure gold for your photographer.
Consider the layout of your venue, the amenities available, and the overall vibe. A happy and relaxed atmosphere translates into genuine and heartfelt photos that capture the true spirit of your celebration.
Your wedding venue is more than just a “backdrop”, it's a co-star in the visual story that is your wedding album. So, take your time, explore your options, and find a venue that speaks to your love story. Because when the venue is right, the photos are nothing short of magic.
Summertime Loving
Snow Farm Vineyard South Hero Vermont
Step into the enchanting world of a Vermont summer wedding. Enter a realm of warmth, joy, and timeless romance. This past summer, I had the pleasure of photographing a wedding at the picturesque Snow Farm Vineyard in South Hero, Vermont, and it was a day that unfolded like a beautiful love story against the backdrop of sunlit grapevines and the glistening waters of Lake Champlain. Though the venue is only a short 15 minute drive from my home I was completely unfamiliar with the venue but quickly fell in love with it.
Pre-Ceremony Preparations:
The day began with a gentle hum of excitement in the air as the bride and groom prepared for their momentous day. The warm Vermont sun bathed the vineyard in a soft glow, setting the stage for a day filled with love and laughter. Capturing the quiet moments of anticipation and the subtle details of the bridal attire became the opening notes that would set the stage that would begin to unfold throughout the day.
Lakeside Ceremony:
The ceremony took place with Lake Champlain serving as the backdrop for this love story. The sunlight filtered through the leaves, creating a natural canopy of dappled light. As the couple exchanged rings and promises, I focused on capturing the genuine emotions- the shared joy, the exchanged glances, and the heartfelt smiles that painted the venue with the warmth of Malaina and Chris’s love.
Golden Hour in the Vineyard:
As the day progressed, we ventured into the vineyard for the couple's portraits during the golden hour. The soft, golden light cast a magical glow over everything it touched, turning the rows on vines into a fairytale setting. The couple's laughter echoed through the rows of grapevines, creating images that spoke of a love as timeless as the surroundings.
Vineyard Celebration:
The reception took place under a beautiful white tent with the vineyards providing the backdrop, and with tables adorned in beautiful florals as the sun dipped below the horizon. Guests reveled in the warm evening air, toasting to the newlyweds and dancing under the lights of the Dj. Candid moments of laughter, heartfelt toasts, and the couple's first dance added depth to the visual narrative, capturing the essence of a summer celebration of love in Vermont.
in Closing:
Photographing Malaina and Chris’s wedding at Snow Farm Vineyard was a harmonious blend of natural beauty, heartfelt moments, and the timeless magic of love. The vineyard's rustic charm, Lake Champlain's serene backdrop, and the warmth of summer created a canvas on which the couple's love story unfolded like a symphony. As I reflect on this day, I am reminded that capturing the essence of such moments is not just about taking photographs; it's about weaving a visual story that immortalizes the emotions, the laughter, and the love shared on a day that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were there. Snow Farm Vineyard, in South Hero Vermont with its summer allure, proved to be the perfect stage for a celebration that will echo in the hearts of the couple and their loved ones for years to come.
Adding film, Nikon f100, Portra 800
Photography has become my passion, and there's something truly magical about capturing the intimate moments and warm emotions that unfold during weddings. In my quest to enhance the emotional depth and evoke a sense of nostalgia in my wedding photography, I picked up a Nikon F100 camera and paired it with Kodak Portra 800 film. This combination has not only delivered exceptional results but also added a unique perspective and charm to my photos. I’ll share my personal experience with this combination and how I feel it’s added to my proverbial bag of camera tricks.
When I first held the Nikon F100 in my hands, I was instantly drawn to its classic design and robust build quality. As a film camera camera newbie, I have been searching for the tactile experience and the ability to slow down and be more deliberate in my compositions. The F100 delivered on all fronts, offering a reliable and familiar interface that seamlessly integrated into my wedding photography workflow. The f100 closely mimics a Nikon dslr in its size and feel. At quick glance most wouldn’t notice the difference, it’s that familiarity that drew me to the camera.
In search of a film stock that would infuse my images with warmth, rich colors, and fine grain, I found my answer in Kodak Portra 800. It’s also a film stock that is referenced almost exclusively when you research film stocks for weddings. This versatile film became my trusted companion, allowing me to capture a wedding in a distinctive and nostalgic manner. With its wide exposure latitude, Portra 800 has excelled in challenging lighting conditions, preserving details in both highlights and shadows with remarkable consistency. In my (very) limited experience I continue to be impressed with films ability to be shot several stops over (overexposed) and still maintain details. This same ability is not true at all of digital photography.
Weddings are filled with intimate moments shared between the couple, their families, and friends. The Nikon F100, with its manual controls and precise metering system, enabled me to embrace the authenticity of these fleeting moments. Through the camera's viewfinder, I could connect with the emotions unfolding in front of me and capture them with utmost care and sensitivity. This connection, coupled with the warm tones of Portra 800, breathed life into my images, encapsulating the essence of love, joy, and togetherness.
In a world dominated by digital photography, the combination of the Nikon F100 and Kodak Portra 800 film have offered me a refreshing departure from the instant gratification of digital. The inherent limitations of shooting film require me to be more intentional and discerning, instilling a sense of anticipation in the creative process. Each click of the shutter feels like capturing a timeless fragment, the moments feel even more fleeting and important than when shooting digital.
Photographing weddings with the Nikon F100 and Kodak Portra 800 film has been a learning curve, one that has enriched both my craft and my connection to my camera, the moment in front of me, and with the couples I have had the pleasure of documenting. The f100’s reliability, combined with the film's warm and nostalgic qualities, has allowed me to create images that evoke emotion and preserve cherished memories. I look forward to continuing to learn and grow with this modality.
Acadia Retreat
Elopement Retreat
May 2023
In a world filled with grandiose weddings and extravagant celebrations, there's an undeniable allure to the intimate embrace of elopements. Nestled on the picturesque shores of Maine lies Acadia National Park, an idyllic haven where nature's beauty dances with the whispers of love. Here, amidst the tranquil wilderness, an elopement photography retreat offered myself and several soon to be friends a unique opportunity to capture the essence of intimacy and warmth. .
I was traveling to Acadia National Park from Vermont by car and alone, it promised to be a thrilling (sarcasm) adventure. I was anxious to arrive as I would be staying in an AirBnb with strangers, all of us united in our love of photography and determined to make the most of our elopement photography retreat. Despite the anticipation of the week that lied ahead, there was a hint of uncertainty. Would the weather cooperate? Would we be able to capture the perfect shot? How long would those awkward introductions linger. By the end of the week, all of our questions were answered and we were certain that the journey to Acadia National Park had been an incredibly rewarding experience.
I am filled with gratitude for the photography retreat I had the pleasure of attending. It was an incredible experience that not only allowed me to expand my knowledge and skills as a photographer but also provided an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. The bonds formed with fellow photography enthusiasts during the retreat were invaluable, as we shared our passion, exchanged tips and tricks, and encouraged each other's growth. The support and camaraderie that emerged from this retreat are something I will forever cherish. I am truly grateful for the friendships and connections made, as they have enriched both my personal and professional life.
Special Thank you to all the models and Vendors for making this retreat happen, so much behind the scenes work that goes into these and everyone was fantastic to be around.
VENDORS:
Styled Shoot #1
Planner / Photographer @ameliamariephoto
Models: @carlyslens & Ashley
Dress: @thewildlove_collective
Florals: @flowersbyhoboken
Stationery: @edenwoodpaperie
Hair / Makeup: @belovedbella_bykayla
Jewelry: @gosiameyerjewelry
Picnic: @picniques207 & @downtowncharcuterie
Coordinators: @kaylaskreations_207 & @liz_chretien
Styled Shoot #2
Planner / Photographer @ameliamariephoto
Models: @i.am.j___ & @_lindeyy
Dress: @dareanddazzle
Florals: @fleurdelisfloraldesign
Hair / Makeup: @belovedbella_bykayla
Table setup: @picniques207
Jewelry: @gosiameyerjewelry
Cake: @honeyandlacebakingco
Coordinators: @kaylaskreations_207 & @liz_chretien
Styled Shoot #3
Planner / Photographer @ameliamariephoto
Models: @ksow & @iantriller
Dress: @flutterdress
Florals: @fleurdelisfloraldesign
Hair / Makeup: @belovedbella_bykayla
Jewelry: @gosiameyerjewelry
Coordinators: @kaylaskreations_207 & @liz_chretien
Vow Books: @coppercloudcreativeco
Now here’s some of my favorite images of those few days in Acadia National Park
