There WAS a Second Shooter!

Yesterday I helped my friend, Gail, shoot a beautiful wedding. It was a very long, very exhausting day, but I’m so glad I got to be a part of it. These kids (I can say that because I’m old enough to be their mother) are one of the cutest couples I’ve ever seen. Seriously adorable!!

I always enjoy weddings. Listening to the vows and seeing the looks on the bride and groom’s faces make me feel all bubbly inside. They remind me of that feeling I had nearly 23 years ago and sometimes still get today when I look at Todd. (Mushy, I know. But whatever.)

This particular wedding was rather unique and an experience I will remember forever. The groom is French-Canadian and the bride’s family is from Zimbabwe. There were two pastors – one born and raised in America and one from South Africa. There were guests from the UK and from Australia. It was like being at the UN or something!

The groom’s sister read something in French (such a beautiful language) and a young friend read a Hebrew blessing. In Hebrew! Whenever I hear the words “Adonai” and “Elohim” amongst other Hebrew words I get chills. Jesus probably said those very words! The couple wrote their own vows and read them to each other in English and then she read her vows in his native French and he read his vows in her family’s Shone. It was a fascinating cultural experience.

As for taking pictures, it seems a lot easier in my head before I get to wherever I’m shooting. To be a great event photographer you have to think on your feet, something I’m not very good at. Which is fine because I don’t aspire to be an event photographer ever. But I love to hang out with Gail for the day and learn something new every time.

The reception hall was beautiful and was surrounded by about two feet of pristine snow with light flurries. The wedding party was great and happily agreed to taking pictures outside in the fading daylight, strapless dresses and all! I know Gail’s photographs are going to be fabulous and I can’t wait to see the end products!

I think today, though, I’ll leave my camera alone.