Being Backup

For many photographers the notion of being a backup shooter at a wedding isn't that attractive. It's simply not as glamourous. However, as I discovered, it can be a fantastic opportunity.

When you are not the primary photographer, and you are not counted on for the key shots, you get to take chances, find interesting angles, be creative, and if it all fails... hey, it's OK, someone else was on point to do the heavy lifting.

I discovered this first hand when shooting a wedding on Martha's Vineyard. The couple was married at the foot of a lighthouse. I took one look and knew that to shoot straight down with a long lens would give me a unique perspective. I almost didn't get the shot due to extreme winds, but in the end I was very happy with this one. Had I been the lead photographer, I never would have risked this shot and given up the standard shots that were on the check list.

Sunday Sweets

Ok, technically it's Monday, but I thought it would be fun to start off the week with some super sweet photos from Kevin and Meghann's wedding in Lake Placid.

I remember the wedding cakes from my childhood in the 80's. Super elaborate super sugary cakes. I was allowed to eat far too many of those artificially colored sugar flowers. Thank goodness we've progressed!



Wedding feasts are ancient, and universal. Throughout history people around the world have celebrated the formation of a new family by sharing food with their friends and neighbors.



Whatever your wedding plans, keep the food simple and fun. Throw in a dash of elegance, but don't worry about having anything too 'fancy'. Your guests will enjoy your spread, but most of all they will enjoy celebrating with you.

Joe and Sara's engagement session

Engagement sessions are such a fun way to get to know the happy couple before the wedding day. I had briefly met Sara while shooting another wedding, but had never met Joe at all, so I was anxious to find out more about their personal style.



It was a hot and busy day at Castle Island. We arrived a bit early to scope out the best vantage points and plan our shoot. With Chris on camera and myself and Chris Lazzery assisting, we were able to do a completely handheld shoot. (By the way, tackling the reflector on a breezy day was no small feat - thanks Laz!)



Our laid-back couple was relaxed, happy, and clearly crazy about each other throughout the session, and even through a few takes. Their preppy style was perfectly Bostonian. And the sunset cooperated perfectly, as did the patient pedestrians who waited for us to get the shot. All in all, it was a great day and I can't wait for the wedding!



Visit our Facebook page to see the full album.

In the Summertime

This photo is from a pre-bridal session I did with my friend Heidi in the summer of 2008. It's still one of my proudest shots. I love the setting, the color, and her expression.



We had a great afternoon getting photos that she used as a gift to her new husband.

I personally find summer to be a stimulating season. The colors and the overwhelming richness of nature inspire me. The juxtaposition of a lovely bride in pure white placed in a quasi-jungle setting is charming and a little wild, just as a wedding should be.

If you want photos like these, but are worried about showing up at your reception a little too disheveled for family approval, consider a Trash the Dress session after the wedding.

My prediction for this summer is a bumper crop of beauty!

New business cards!

I just got our new business cards from MOO! This is just a quick iPhone photo....to see them in person send me a message with your address.

Keeping it Cool!

What do I love about shooting weddings?

1. I get to know a lot of wonderful families.
2. The beautiful locations filled with beautiful people, flowers, and food.
3. Always finding new and unexpected ways to capture every special moment.

So basically, it's just a whole lot of fun.

I took this photo of Chris when we were shooting Kevin and Meghann Burns' wedding in Lake Placid, NY. They're huge hockey fans and a big highlight of the day was getting access to the Olympic Arena where the 'Miracle on Ice' took place.

We were truly having a blast all day!

This is Chris' final image. I really like the juxtaposition of the lovely, feminine bridesmaids and the grungy hockey arena.