wedding photographer

Deziree and Mike - The Barn at Monterey Valley wedding photos

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When I first arrived on Deziree and Mike’s wedding day, I was immediately floored at how stunning the venue was. Like, any direction you point a camera has nature, rustic charm, or a beautiful detail. Turns out it only got better! Their wedding party was full of supportive people who adore them, and Deziree and Mike were completely deserving of all the beauty that surrounded them. They care for each other, aren’t afraid to show their feelings, and have built such a great example for their family of what it is to be loved.

Through all the festivities, the Barn at Monterey Valley staff were so sweet and helpful, and genuinely added so much to the wedding day (For real, I will shoot here again any day).
The evening included a s’mores pit, sundae bar, the most intense cake cutting I have ever witnessed, and the first piggyback sparkler entrance in my eight years of documenting weddings.
It was a great time.

Congratulations Mr and Mrs Double!

Favorites of 2018 - Kalamazoo wedding photographer

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What a fantastic year 2018 has been!

Some really special people promised forever to one another. The more I got to know many of them, the more it felt like was photographing an old friend’s wedding, and I was celebrating their love right along with the guests. I’ve been so honored to have been trusted with some of the most important photos of these wonderful people lives, and I wouldn’t trade that for anything. Here are a few favorites from the 2018 season that have always made me smile when I come across them.
Thanks for being part of my year, I can’t wait to see what 2019 brings!

7 Ways to get the most out of your wedding photographer

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I've had the honor of documenting weddings long enough at this point to know that there are certain things that can make an absolute world of difference in the photography of a couple's special day. There are so many things I've wanted to tell people as they plan and prepare over the years, so I've finally compiled a list of my seven top tips on how to get the absolute best photos for your money! Here they are:

1. Schedule enough time

This point seems obvious, but you have to take into account all the little things that might eat into your portrait time. The hair stylist might have taken longer than expected with updos, or your maid of honor could be stuck in traffic. Scheduling out plenty of time in advance can keep you from stressing when events aren’t quite on schedule knowing there is still time to get the photos you want.

Sara


 

2. Have all the details in one place

There’s nothing more disapointing than missing that genuine moment with your mother as she helps you get ready, or that adorable flower girl jumping on the bed. If I’m running around trying to track down who has what ring, or where the invitation ended up, I may not be with your group when the sweetest moments happen. I recommend having all the details you would like to have photographed (invitations, both rings, jewelry etc.) in the room with the bride so I can document it first thing, and then be able to focus on the ladies or gents getting their swagger on.

Details

 

3. Do a first look

Tradition leads us to believe the first time you’re supposed to see your bride or groom on your wedding day is when you’re walking down the aisle, but that is so untrue.
If that’s what you choose to do as your big reveal, that’s absolutely fine! But let me drop some benefits of first looks on you real quick:


A. You have all the time in the world to get photos done beforehand

B. You actually get to spend your wedding day with your person instead of having to keep separated

C. You’re both significantly more relaxed, and able to enjoy your day

D. When not surrounded by 200 people, you get to share a beautiful intimate moment and let me tell you, the photos are GORGEOUS.

 

 

4. Organize the family

When the ceremony ends, most people immediately switch to the celebration mindset (Which is great for some amazing incriminating dance photos later on!) But, the best way to knock out the family photos, if not done before the ceremony, is to make sure all the family stays in the area. One suggestion is to give those you want included in photos a heads up before the wedding day, but you can also have the officiant give a reminder announcement after the two of you have kissed, and skipped your married selves back down the aisle.

Family

 

5. Don’t be afraid to get a little dirty

Your dress is perfect, your hair is done, you look amazing. But after the wedding day, are you really going to wear the gown again? What is the actual likelihood that the style will still be in when your daughter gets married? You can stress out about every leaf that gets trapped in the train, or you can take a walk through a field, sit by a waterfall, and laugh with your forever partner as we document every moment.

IMG_5783.jpg

 

6. Include a second shooter

I can’t emphasize enough the difference a second shooter makes on a wedding day. It’s so much more than just another person with a camera. More often than not, I will have one my favorite second photographer hang out with the groom while they’re getting ready freeing me up to focus on the girls, watching for candid moments during portraits, and just generally giving the peace of mind that the day is being documented just as it happens. Not only will you receive more photos, but you’ll be able to breathe easy knowing that someone is watching the dance floor as grandma is showing off her break dancing skills.

Second shooter

 

7. Trust your photographer

This one sounds like a no brainer, right? You took the time to find the person that fits your style and personality, you know exactly what you’re getting. It’s so easy to forget all of this when you’re feeling the pressure to greet all of your guests and make sure the schedule of events is running as it’s supposed to. That’s why when I approach you to sneak outside for ten minutes to grab some golden sunset portraits, it’s because I know these are going to end up being your favorites of the day. They will be worth it!

Most importantly, enjoy your day! It is a celebration of the love you share, and nothing makes for good photos as much as natural smiles.


Most importantly, enjoy your day! It is a celebration of the love you share, and nothing makes for good photos as much as natural smiles.

- Esther

Mr and Mrs Fish - A Lawton wedding

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The moment Stephanie and Ryan started describing their wedding plans to me, I knew it was going to be completely stunning. 
Stephanie's sisters had their own weddings at the Lawton Community Center, and it held a special place in her heart. She wanted to preserve the tradition, but with her own personal twists, which were executed perfectly.  
This wedding is exactly why encourage doing a first look so much!
First of all, Ryan's face! I melted!
Second, we had so much time to do portraits that we were able to work with the most ideal lighting, get plenty of photos for everyone, and still have time to sneak out for a few more at sunset. 
Third, they actually got to spend their special day together instead of being cooped up in separate rooms, and that was amazing to watch. They both have so much love for each other, and I can't imagine a better celebration. 

Also, fireworks, 
Yes. 

Congratulations Ryan and Stephanie! Looks like there is one less fish in the sea.