Author. Editor. Copywriter

For Wedding Photographers:

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I'm so glad you found your way over here and since you did, I'll assume you're considering working with me. I created this page to help make that decision easier for you.

 

I specialize in the niche of wedding photography content writing. Over the years I've worked with a number of wedding photographers and written about a myriad of wedding-related topics including; wedding venues, love stories, photography styles, honeymoon destinations, and of course, the art of capturing life-changing moments.

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I've compiled some of those articles here so you can easily see the kind of content I could create for your website. I'd love to work with you, and I hope after reading through these writing samples, that you feel the same.

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3. Why Shoot Film?

 

It truly is incredible just how far technology has propelled us in the direction of advancement, in every area we can imagine. In some areas, however, while the convenience and ease of such advancement is great, we find ourselves feeling a little nostalgic for a simpler, older era because we find ourselves still in awe of how beautiful it remains. One such area is photography, and no matter how much times passes, we can’t get over the beauty of film. Not only because it satisfies the ‘forever vintage’ part of us that thinks everything older is better, but also because it satisfies the logical part of us that can convincingly argue that film is better. We’re absolutely convinced, and I hope you stay with us because I’m pretty sure by the end of this article you will be too. There is a reason that film photography has stood the test of time.

 

The origins of photography are a bit vague, being that it was so long ago and it wasn’t recorded. But we do know that the art we so love originated around 1800, where we had a documented failed attempt by Thomas Wedgwood. That was followed by the first successful attempt in 1820 by Nicéphore Niépce. Although a success, several days of exposure were required and the results lacked the refinement we enjoy today. In 1939, Niépce's associate, Louis Daguerre propelled us even further by developing the daguerreotype process that only required minutes of exposure to produce a clear, detailed image. This was the birth of photography as we know it. Over the centuries, a lot has changed and gotten better; film speed, lens quality; the ability to develop in color, and even to shoot film digitally. All these things have made shooting film more intricate, more precise, perhaps more difficult but certainly more beautiful. Whatever the advancement the process is still the same, at least for shooting black and white. There is nothing more exciting than dipping your prints into your tank in the dark, pouring developer in daylight, adding a stop bath and a fixer before rinsing with running water. There’s almost a childlike excitement as you hang the images up to dry and wait. There’s nothing like entering your darkroom and holding the perfect, dry image in your hands for the first time. I think that’s the thing about shooting film that makes us so nostalgic about it, the craftsmanship. The time-consuming nature of the exercise and the requirement for patience all work together to remind us just how much of a craft photography is. 

 

But, alas, time has moved on and given us the almighty digital camera. How does film fare against digital and what are the key differences between the two? Well, for starters the sensor used to take a photo is very different. For film cameras, a light sensitive film is placed behind the lens. When a photo is taken the shutter opens for a predetermined period of time and light hits the film. The result is a photo "printed" on the film. For a new photo, the film is then rolled to expose fresh film. Digital cameras have a fixed electronic sensor (sometimes known as CCD) situated behind the lens. The sensor is built from tiny light-sensitive sensors each representing a pixel, and the pixels together create an image. The images are electronically saved on digital media and can be electronically emptied. So, shooting digitally is much easier and faster, and less expensive. Film costs money, as does developing the images whereas storing images on a digital camera does not. Digital cameras allow you to take an infinite number of images because you can always insert a memory card or discard the ones you don’t like to free up space. Digital cameras often come with self-correcting for images, which can rectify the coloration and blur in images without you even thinking about it. Lastly, with a digital camera feedback time is instantaneous whereas you have to wait for images to get developed with a film camera. In short, digital is easier and faster and so much more convenient.

 

With all of that said you would think that shooting film should be discarded altogether, but it isn’t. In fact, it remains one of the most sort after and idealized forms of photography. It is romanticized by both photographers who shoot film and those who don't. Why? Well, I think the best way to answer that is to show rather than tell. One of my two all-time favorite film photographers is Jose Villa, whose fine art wedding photography can accurately be described as a portfolio into whimsical. Don’t believe me, take a look for yourself here:  http://josevilla.com/  The second is Elizabeth Messina, whose photography continuously captures love so well. Browse through her wonderful gallery at: http://www.elizabethmessina.com/).

 

I love both these photographers because of what they are able to do every time they step behind a lens: capture beauty in whatever form it may present itself in front of them. I’m drawn to them because in their art I see my own. I see the love I have for the perfect moment, not the one the bride posed for, but the one right after when instead of the perfect smile she has on her face the true joy and relief of realizing that everything is going according to plan. The quick hand squeeze between her and her new husband as they make their rounds, availing themselves to family and friends even though they really just want to be with each other. Mom’s tears as she listens to her new son make vows to her precious daughter, because those vows aren’t just for the bride. 

 

When you have the privilege to share in people’s most treasured moments as a photographer you start to have an inkling about when these moments will happen, and that kind of premonition is priceless when it comes to shooting a wedding. After all, a special moment only lasts for a moment.

 

Check out all the special moments I’ve been lucky enough to capture in film, and it’s okay if you fall in love with the art of it.

 

See you soon.

 

4. Venue Spotlight: Walton House in Homestead, Florida

 

You’ve done the hard part, you’ve found the one you want to spend forever with. But now you need to choose your forever venue. The place that will accompany the memories of your most special day, forever. With all the gorgeous venues across the country you could choose from, we’re not judging you for feeling a little overwhelmed. In fact, we’re here to help. We’re about to help you make that shortlist even shorter. 

 

Imagine the charming, historic style that English cottages are known for, surrounded by the vibrant tropical splendour of Florida. At Walton House in Homestead, Fl, you don’t have to imagine. Outside, the greenery overpowers everything, all five acres of botanical garden of it. Take a stroll and indulge in the sensory feast, get lost in it, there isn’t a place you can find that isn’t Instagram worthy. Start at the coral rock swimming pool with cascading waterfall, letting the realisation that you really are in paradise slowly wash over you. Next, to the large lagoon with white swans and Japanese koi, and sunken pond with a waterfall. Yes, another waterfall. At the heart of this tropical wonderland is the Indonesian-style Chikee hut with an expansive deck right next to the lagoon. It’s hard to miss, which is just as well because it is a must-see. And when you’ve had your fill of the tropical paradise, say goodbye to all the exotic friends you just made. The property boasts an impressive collection of flamingos, parrots, macaws, giant tortoises and monkeys, just to name a few. 

 

Need a break? Need to go somewhere and sit down and take it all in, drink in hand? Well, all you have to do is turn your sites to the true star, Walton House itself. The gorgeous historic structure can only be described as the quintessential English cottage, with its wood frame and stucco exterior. It stands proud and different from all the neighbouring residences, a classic beauty in a sea of modern style, with all the charm to match. According to waltonhousemiami.com, the beauty was built in 1917 by W.K Walton. It is as breathtaking now, as we can only imagine it was then. Inside, every room is dripping with as much charm as you would have hoped, making you feel both at home and in a dream. The expert use of space, the perfect balance of luxury and cosiness, makes this the ideal wedding venue. The sweet, subtle touches in the antique bridal suite will leave you breathless. What’s more, it’s yours for the entire day, from 9 am until the end of your reception.

 

The house serves a number of different functions, as a private venue for parties and photoshoots, but it’s no surprise that it marries itself so well to weddings. It can house up to 150 guests, the 100 candle lit lanterns and 4000 bistro lights acting as witnesses as you all dance the night away. The only complaint you’ll have is that you can’t spend the night at the wonderful venue, but you won’t complain for long. Getting to and from the historic Walton House is a breeze, the property is conveniently located just thirty minutes south of Miami International Airport and forty minutes from South Beach. So there is absolutely no reason not to keep the party going.

 

Perhaps most important, is the promise this venue offers, not just on your wedding day but long after. Long after the dust from your dancing shoes has settled, and all your guests have gone home. When you reach for that wedding book, you’ll relive all the wonder captured in every image in this enchanting place. You’ll travel back to the European style horse stable where you and all your bridesmaids took that fail of a jumping photo that hangs in your hallway. Or perhaps back to the English flower garden, where even surrounded by all flowers, your dress still stole the shot. Pictures are forever, and you’ll want to take yours here. Walton House promises to deliver all the wonder worthy of your big day. 

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5. What’s your type of ring?

 

For most brides, the moment you first see your engagement ring is one you will likely never forget. Tied to it is the memory of the time-stopping moment when your other half proposed to you, and your heart lept. But what of that little piece of symbolism that gets slipped onto your finger after you say ‘yes’? Where do rings come from? And how do know which is the right one for you? Well, today we’re diving right into that fascinating topic and, hopefully, at the end of this article, you’ll a little more understanding, and you’ll be ready to answer the question: What’s your ring type?

 

Whenever I think of rings, gorgeous pieces of jewelry flash across my mind and the styles are so different that I find myself pulled in a number of different directions. I think this is normal because as humans we recognize beauty and very many, different things can be beautiful. I also think that in the end, you’ll find the one that just takes your breath away, one you see yourself in, the one that reflects you the most. Rings, like people, have personalities, and when you find the one that is you, you’ll know. I believe that’s the key. And we’re lucky because today rings have as much personality as the brides that wear them, and as many. There are still the rustic brides, whose rings are understated, classy whispers. The brides who would choose a material like brass or copper, or even wood to showcase their earthy tastes, with bands so small you could miss them. To this bride, the ring is merely a basic symbol of the much more important idea. The union. Pick a ring as pure as your intentions. [Rustic, simple ring] On the other end of the spectrum, there are the diamonds-or-die brides, who simply don’t believe a proposal is real without the gorgeous stone on their finger, blinding them with all the reflected light that diamonds are famous. Or the extravagant but non-traditional bride who opts for a ruby stone or perhaps an emerald, anything to reflect the colour of her own personality. [Precious stone ring] And every single one in between. It doesn’t matter where you fall, we are just here on an exploration and appreciation of rings, and the brides that pick them.

 

The first known civilisation to exchange ‘rings of love’ were the ancient Egyptians, some 5000 years ago. They valued the eternal symbolism of the circle and exchanged rings made of common materials, reeds and leather. The ancient Greeks followed and moved history along by starting the trend of giving rings to lovers, and not just in devotion or as gifts, as the Egyptians did. But it wasn’t until the Romans that we had a clear connection between the ring and marriage. Those early ‘fede’ rings depicted two hands coming together in agreement or love. They could be made in solid gold or carved in stone, like a signet, most commonly in cornelian, aquamarine, garnet or onyx. Over time the Romans began personalizing their rings until the rings often had full figure depicts of the couple carved into them. As Christianity became the official religion of the Empire, rings began also bearing the sign of the cross, to bless the marriage. 

 

Another shift took place, the 15th century saw the rise of the posy ring. The ring showed the shift in mentality about marriage at the time. Marriages had mostly been an arrangement between families, and an ornate ring signified a more profitable union. As marriage became more personal and rooted in love between the individuals, rings became more simple and private. Posy rings were famous for the personal messages inscribed on the inside, unseen by others. This is an option for those truly sentimental brides, who want their beloved to carry an even more intimate reminder of their love on their finger. Space is limited though, so really think about what you want to have inscribed. 

 

Also in the 15th century, a gift of jewelry was often sent by the father of the bride to the father of the groom, proposing the intent to marry off his daughter. It was not uncommon for the gift to be a diamond ring, so this is likely the beginning of the tradition of diamond engagement rings. While diamonds engagement rings continued to gain popularity over time, it wasn’t until De Beers’ ‘Diamonds are Forever’ campaign in the 1940’s that this tradition was launched into the norm. 

 

Today, while diamond engagement rings are still the most common, more and more couples are opting for something different. Socially aware brides may choose to not support the diamond business, as a protest of how those diamonds are often retrieved. Or they may go for eco-friendly options like lab-grown diamonds or recycled diamonds. There has also been a rise in the popularity of rough or uncut diamonds and non-traditional stones, so it’s not uncommon for a bride to get a ring with her birthstone instead. Or perhaps a vintage ring, or a unique style that belongs only to you. Or, and this is a big one, some brides forgo the engagement ring altogether. The greatest thing about being a bride today is that your options are endless. The only real requirement for choosing a ring, and making sure it’s the right one for you, is being true to yourself.

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Happy looking.

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6. Destination Weddings: Viceroy Resort St Lucia

 

We all love destination weddings and it’s no wonder. Proclaiming your love in front of family and close friends and the chance to do it in a faraway location is an easy one to sell. It’s a vacation in paradise and the best day of your life all wrapped into one. More and more brides are fulfilling their wanderlust dreams, and if you’re one of them then you’re about to love us even more because we have the just perfect venue for you.

 

Located in the eastern Caribbean Sea on the boundary with the Atlantic Ocean, northwest of Barbados is the sovereign island country of St Lucia. On the south-west coast of the island is the white sand Sugar Beach, home to the gorgeous Viceroy Resort. The luxury resort and hotel is set within over 100 acres of pristine rainforest on the site of an 18th Century sugar plantation. Not only that, the resort’s location falls within the Pistons, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site.

 

Everything about Viceroy Resort screams love, exclusivity, and escape. White sand, blue sky, curtains swaying gently from that Caribbean Ocean breeze.  If you wish to pamper yourself on arguably the most memorable day of your life, then you’ll find it hard to find a better place than this. Choose between the luxury guestrooms, villas, beachfront bungalows, or the multiple bedroom villa residences that allow you and your party to experience the lush getaway together. The views on this property are breathtaking, from every angle. The kind of views you want all around you as you celebrate your wedding. The kind of views that last forever in your heart and mind, and in your wedding coffee table book. 

 

The staff at Viceroy Resort take the business of your island getaway wedding very seriously, and if you need any evidence of this, all you have to do is make a trip to the spa. Allow the lush foliage and soaring mountain vistas of Val des Pitons to serve as the backdrop to your relaxation, the reason that sounds easy to do is that it is. Everything about this resort is designed to help you relax, stop, and smell the roses. With that kind of zen, your bridal glow will be at its optimum and who doesn’t want that? 

 

Get lost on the island and take it all the scenery from your balcony. Dive into the decadent Caribbean culture as you take your taste buds on their own adventure at any of the resort’s three restaurants, two bars, and single lounge. Feeling lazy? Take advantage of the dining service and all the deliciousness will come to you, whether in your room, on the beach, or anywhere on the island. Seriously. And they’ll be plenty of opportunities to be famished at random parts of the island as you and your guests take advantage of the many activities available. Ever wanted to ride a bike on the ocean? Well at Viceroy resort you can do just that atop their famous Schiller water bikes. Go snorkeling, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, scuba diving...are you booking your flights yet?! Not adventurous? Then just go for a walk, even something as simple as that will leave you inspired in a place as beautiful as this. Don’t just take our word for it, check them out for yourself at http://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com. You will not be disappointed. 

 

Yes, destination weddings take time to plan and dedication to get just right, but name one great thing that doesn’t. If you have a vision for your big day, and that vision includes an island belonging to both the Atlantic and the Caribbean, you owe it to yourself to bring it to life. Take the time, do your research, plan it out, and then go live out your fantasy.  The pictures from your St Lucia wedding will stand the test of time, and transport you back to when you tied the knot in paradise. [Please feel free to browse the gallery of past brides whose perfect, tropical island weddings I captured right here, in Viceroy Resort.]

 

See you soon.

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7. Honeymoon Central

 

So you two have tied the knot, or you’re about to, and tied in with the butterflies of everything that is your wedding, there is also the anxiety of not knowing where to go for your honeymoon. It’s the second leg of your ‘big day’, and as much as you both love all the guests that helped you celebrate getting married, perhaps the greatest part of your honeymoon is that none of them will be there! Finally, you get to enjoy each other as spouses and marvel at how all of a sudden everything changed, while also staying exactly the same. Your honeymoon is a gift, a magical time where you can finally celebrate having pulled together a whole wedding. Where you go is important, and enjoying it is important. But as the start of your new life together, making sure it doesn't break the bank is also important. So once again, we’re here to help. We’ve put together a list of our top seven, non-typical, you-don’t-have-to-win-the-lottery-to-afford-it honeymoon spots! Pack your shades, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, bug spray and let’s go!

 

Mozambique- A gem of the Indian Ocean, Mozambique has a long, white-sand coastline that’s dotted with popular beaches. ‘In the Quirimbas Archipelago, a 250km stretch of coral islands, mangrove-covered Ibo Island has colonial-era ruins surviving from a period of Portuguese rule.’ Who doesn’t want to explore that?! Mozambique is small, and although it’s right next to more popular South Africa, it doesn’t get the same traffic. What that means for you and your beloved is exclusivity. Come and experience your own private beaches, fresh-from-the-boat seafood, and warm hospitality. Check out Tofo beach and be sure to spend at least a night in the bustling capital of Maputo, where you’ll fly in. You won’t regret it. 

 

Kenya- The ever enchanting East African country of Kenya is another one high on our list. With so much to offer, you most likely won’t be able to do it all, but at least you’ll experience the wonder. Spend time in the capital of Nairobi, and experience the warmth of the land and the people. Then when you’re ready retreat to one of the many national reserves, where you can watch all of Africa’s wildlife move around you like you weren't even there. To see a family of elephants roam free, in their natural environment, is a hair-raising experience everyone must have at least once. If you time this right, you could find yourself in the Serengeti during the breathtaking wildebeest migration, millions of wildebeest crossing the plains. You can’t imagine it, you just have to see it. Maybe from the air, as you float about in a hot air balloon. Challenge yourself to climb Africa’s tallest peak, Mt Kilimanjaro that Kenya shares with Tanzania, and literally be on top of the world. Not for you? Then relax on any one of the countless beaches, while you sip on something cold and watch the sunset. Kenya has it all, all it’s missing is you.   

 

Jamaica- Best Island nation ever. The vegetation, the people, the culture, the beach, and the sun. It’s always sunny and perfect in Jamaica, and everything is always ‘Irie man’. Don’t get fooled though, the island isn’t just a beach, it’s also crammed to the brim with culture and history. Take a trip to visit Bob Marley’s home, where he is buried alongside his mother, and learn more about his life. Enjoy a rum runner in any one of the countless beach bars, or dive into the sweaty, rhythmic nightlife of Kingston as you sweat it all away in the infamous dancehalls. Enjoy some watersports or just let the water beat down on you at Dunns River and Falls Park. Regardless of what you choose to do, there’s always a smiling face ready to help you should you need it. Go on, Jamaica’s waiting.

 

Morocco- Breakfast in Casablanca? That’s exactly what you can do if you choose to honeymoon in Morocco. A place where culture meets, you’ll most likely find yourself just spending hours wandering the streets, in awe of the architecture. Morocco is distinguished by its Berber, Arabian, and European cultural influences which makes it a very unique and interesting place. Shop to your heart’s desire at the many marketplaces selling ceramics, jewelry, metal lanterns and so much more. Guaranteed to be a trip like no other, you’ll be happy you went off the beaten path.

 

Peru- South America is a place bursting with color, flavor, and a tempo that instantly makes you feel at home. The people are welcoming and the land is beautiful and historic. While there is so much more to see and explore in surrounding Cusco, like admiring the breathtaking Sacred Valley, It would be wrong to not give due attention to the ultimate attraction of Peru- Machu Picchu. If you need just one reason to honeymoon here then let it be for the opportunity to stand atop the Incan citadel set high in the Andes Mountains and marvel at Machu Picchu. It will leave you breathless, and in awe of what people so long ago were able to achieve in such a difficult climate. Mountains and trails not for you? Well then, just stay in Lima, Peru’s coastal capital where you will have the best ceviche in the world. Come experience a country still true to its culture and heritage, and fall in love.

 

Costa Rica- I have dreams of retiring in Costa Rica, where I’d own a banana farm and live happily ever after with my ten children, two dogs, and one husband. But my personal goals aside, Costa Rica is a wonderful honeymoon destination for the couple who enjoys nature. In spring when everything is in bloom, the colors are so vivid they look straight out of a coloring book. Maybe not the place for you if you absolutely hate humidity, but if you’re willing to forgive a little stickiness, you won’t be disappointed. Besides, you always have the option of swimming with elephants, yes, really.

 

Iceland- Don’t let the country’s name scare you, I mean yes, it is icy, but it’s also insanely beautiful. Iceland has a topography that feels out of this world. It has rolling hills of green, waterfalls, a bustling city life in the capital of Reykjavik where at least the beer will keep you warm. If you get a little too cold, you can just jump into the world-famous blue lagoon and stay there until all the cold melts away. Imagine sitting holding hands in the hot water springs as the snow falls over you, and you're not cold. The waiters will swim up to you with your drinks (you know you want to..) and your skin will thank you for all the minerals it absorbs from the lagoon. Iceland really is a land of fire and ice, and also a very environmentally friendly one. The entire country is run on geothermal energy! It’s a picturesque place worthy of your honeymoon. Probably the priciest trip here, but we were hoping you’d let that slide because it’s just that great. 

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Happy deciding.

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