The first look was complete, and it was almost time for the ceremony. I was about to leave Danielle with her bridesmaids and head to Lafayette Square to shoot the ceremony setup and guests arriving, when she asked me if I would stay with her instead. She was SO excited to marry Paul, but she wanted someone by her side to help calm her nerves on the way to the ceremony. She said my energy was what she needed with her at the moment (which is one of the biggest compliments I’ve ever gotten), so I quickly called my second-shooter and told her to cover the shots I would usually get before the ceremony, and I went back to the hotel with Danielle to help her freshen up.

THAT is exactly what I love most about being a wedding photographer. Yes, the actual photography part is a blast. But more than anything, I get to be there for my brides, in whatever way is most helpful to them on their wedding day. Which means sometimes, the most helpful thing I can do is NOT be taking pictures in that moment. For Danielle, my presence in a moment where she needed complete calm was MORE beneficial than me getting the pre-ceremony photos that I could have my second-shooter take.

At other weddings, it’s just speaking calmly in the bride’s ear when it feels like chaos around her. Or intuitively knowing when they need a little break from photos. Or maybe it’s gracefully running interference when a family member is stressing them out. Or just giving hugs or hand-squeezes when something goes wrong, and assuring them it actually will all be ok.

Being a wedding photographer comes with so much more responsibility than just taking photos, and that’s what makes this job so fulfilling. When I can not only capture their memories but also contribute to how their day goes in a positive way – well, that’s when the job is truly magical.

Vendors:
Planning: Marvee at Tara Skinner Events
Ceremony: Lafayette Square
Reception: Soho South Cafe
Hair + Makeup: Beyond Beautiful by Heather
Additional makeup: Lauren Rossi
Flowers: Harvey Designs
Videographer: Square City Productions
Getting Ready Hotel: Perry Lane Hotel
DJ: All About You Entertainment
Trolley: Old Savannah Tours
Cake: Wicked Cakes
Rentals: Event Works Rentals
Officiant: Rev. Schulte
Ice Cream Cart: Leopold’s Ice Cream