Almost 8 years ago, Lance and got married in the most beautiful location I think I’ve ever seen in Cabo San Lucas Mexico.  A destination wedding at it’s finest, the place where he proposed, our secret spot that warms the heart of all it’s beauty.  While I was just starting out in photography land, it didn’t really occur to me to ensure we chose our wedding photographer, I mean one was being provided in the “package” we chose with our wedding coordinator in Mexico, on a side note, she was fabulous by the way, the photographer…not so much. I just assumed it was covered and moved on to other details in planning a destination wedding. Oh how I was wrong. Very very wrong.

Looking back now at my photos is painful in every sense of the word. They are not good. I believe that is why I am so passionate about photography now because I could not bare to have a client feel like I do in relation to their wedding images.  Yes, we as photographers all start somewhere and yes we charge little to get into the game when we first start, I get it, I’ve been there too and am thankful for my friends and clients who took a chance on my inexperienced self when I first started. This post is not about that or picking on those who are just starting out, I get it, really I do.

Now that I am experienced, poured my soul into learning this industry, my camera, courses, business development and marketing, it just comes down to the old saying, “you get what you pay for”. Yes it was my mistake for not researching and doing the homework, but even as part of the package, the photographer portion of it was only $775.00. Today, if I was looking for a photographer for my wedding I most likely would not even take the time to look at someone who charges that little only because with that price, comes inexperience or beginners. That is only because I know the industry now and know the difference between great images and not so great ones. Again, I get it, we all start somewhere. I hear over and over stories similar to mine because we have not invested in the right photographer.

Passion. It’s what drives me. I am so thrilled when a client is in tears of joy or over the moon excited when they see their photos. I love going the extra mile to help plan the wedding day, take extra time with the edits, ensure my clients look and feel their best. I am obsessed with it all, maybe I have my own photographs to thank for that.

I learnt from our photographer of what not to do. Give the bride a break if she needs it. I remember telling Lance at one point I am going to need a minute to wipe the dripping sweat off my face and the whole time the photographer was pushing us to hurry up because we needed to “beat the light” before it got dark. We did not get one appetizer or time with our guests at the ceremony site. All very rushed and not planned at all. Oh, did I mention I am sweating and have a red face in most of photos. Super hot. I also got only one picture with mom and well it’s not good.

I cringe when I hear people say, “oh my friend (or uncle or family member) is going to photograph the wedding, he has a great camera”. I think back to my images and think, “yes, but does he know how to use it?”. I get it too, we are all on a budget, especially with a wedding, but if we did it over again I would absolutely hands down have photography as the number one on my list. Not just because I am one now, but because 8 years later, I hate my wedding images and really that’s all you have to look at. The most beautiful day of my life and I am a sweaty hot mess and have very few images that I like to remember that day.

I pride myself with quality images, meaning I’ve studied on how to technically capture that perfect image. Most of our wedding images were shot on “automatic” mode and have a 6 megapixel resolution (most professionals use manual mode or other modes so you can create the perfect image with settings and my camera and is 23 megapixels). That’s right, my gal left it up to chance, put it on automatic and hoped it focussed right and captured the images she wanted. Ya that’s perfect on a wedding day! lol

So in the end, it is what it is. I am thankful for our friend who was there to capture some better shots for us and have learnt from the whole experience. I can not stress the importance to research your photographer and find one to fit your day. You have one day, one shot and all that remains of your wedding are the images and your distant memories.

Let’s take a look!

My dress is not dirty, her camera was. On almost all of our pictures there are two “dust” spots on every photograph. That means the inside of her sensor in the camera was dirty because it appears on every image. True professionals have that taken care of and do regular “tests” on the camera, prior to every wedding and every shoot. (Most of the pictures were also overexposed creating loss of detail in the background).

The below picture is blurry and the dust spot again on the shoulder.

The ring shot. Nice right? Well you may not see it but the hands are the sharpest part of this images, not the ring. If you’re doing close ups, the thing you are focussing on needs to be the sharpest thing in the photograph.

I was just wondering, do you think the videorgrapher got the shot? I mean, I don’t think he was close enough. When working with a team, communicate before hand on where you will be standing, I mean really.

Oh the emotion on the wedding day. The tears, the smiles, the hugs…This is one of my favorite images. Nothing says emotion like the back of my brother’s head and my husband’s arm…so sweet. Really one of my favorites! lol

This one I actually like. Really I do, it’s Mexico and it was funny…Mondguery, Montgomery, kind of the same? lol

The wedding party. This is just painful. I love the random guy in the background, the distracting light on my veil (at least photoshop it out) and this pose is just horrible. No connection with the group at all.

My sweet lovely in-laws. My second family. This would have been a great shot except the background is what’s in focus, not the couple which is the subject of the photo. Focus on the couple!

This is just all around great. Super great lighting, I know night photography is more difficult but really, let’s plan ahead and ensure this doesn’t happen. Oh and good advice here, just pose them in one big long line with distracting elements. 

The ring shot. So unique and original. OK, I know wedding photography has advanced and become more modern in the last 8 years but nothing says a great detail shot like hand over hand, over flowers surrounded by…candle light? lol

So do your research. Ask questions, meet with your photographer and view samples of work before committing to someone. Don’t take a chance on one of the most important days of your life. Learn from my mistakes and hire a true professional!

xoxo

Melissa

I am in love with these portraits!!

Time to update my own family’s photographs this year! Have you booked yours?

Thank you “N” family…you are a beautiful family. Check back tomorrow for this lovely mamma’s portrait session we did and learn about how you can host a stella and dot trunk show and get free jewellery!

xoxo

Melissa

So many more to come! Stay tuned!

Have a beautiful honeymoon in Hawaii!

xoxo

Melissa

During each consultation with the bride and groom, I will always bring up the idea of a first look.  As part of my services when you book with me for your wedding, I like to help plan the timeline for the wedding day. Discussing the first look will set the tone for the timeline as well. I will explain in detail with each couple when they should consider a first look from a photographer’s perpective while ensuring to listen to their wants and needs for the big day.

The first look is when the bride and groom see each other BEFORE the ceremony. That’s right people, it’s ok to see the bride before walking down the isle, don’t crinkle your noses just yet if your a more traditional bride, just hear me out. Sometimes it makes sense for a couple to have a first a look because it provides a better layout for the timeline, more accessibility to natural light and for more time with your friends and family. This in turn is less stress on the wedding day. Let me explain…

The first look is somewhat staged because I will have the groom facing away from the bride (remember they have not seen each other yet) and coordinate it so that he can turn around once she is ready.  The wedding party is often in the background or off to the side to allow for this beautiful moment. After all, it is the first time they will see each other all dressed up and ready for the most important day of their lives.  This special and private moment between them is often one of the favorite moments that they share. I am also shooting with a long lens at this point so the couple can really have a private moment without me around to distract them or guide them, it’s just them with real raw emotion.

Once the first look is over and they have had their private time, we go directly into the formal portraits of the bride and groom and the wedding party.  This is all done BEFORE the ceremony. Yes before the ceremony. This is usually done right after the “getting ready” photos and the makeup is still in tact and everyone is feeling fresh and ready to go. This also allows the couple to go directly from the ceremony to the reception and attend the cocktail hour with their guests.  I have yet to meet a couple who came to me after the wedding and said they wish they would have done it differently.  Typically after the ceremony, the bride and groom and wedding party jet off for pictures for 1 to 1.5 hrs after the ceremony leaving their guests to cocktail hour. Doing the first look allows the bride and groom to attend cocktail hour and spend more time with their guests.

I do have to stress though, if you want that moment of impact to be when the groom sees you walking down the isle and have those traditional values, then don’t change it. Do what is best for you on the day. Don’t change a thing. Just keep in mind to book a ceremony time, that fits your time of year, with good light and allow enough time for photos after the ceremony and not be rushed right into reception. Yes, light is your best friend on the wedding day and mine too, photographically speaking of course.

When should you consider a first look in my opinion?

When you are getting ready in the same location and are taking the same transportation to the formal portraits location. This couple also had a later ceremony so it made sense to do the photos prior.

When you have certain custom traditions which requires the groom to see his bride prior to the ceremony, for example, door games like this couple had. I still love the mom’s expression peeking through the curtains in this shot.

When you are having a later ceremony and want to jump right into the family formals and start the reception immediately after.

The same for this couple, they had a later ceremony and went right into the reception after.

When you are having a lunch reception and are pressed for time. This couple got to spend the entire lunch with friends and family and not have to worry about jetting off for photos because they were already done.

This couple also had a lunch reception and wanted to spend as much time with friends and family immediately after the ceremony. Plus it was a winter wedding and we still had beautiful light!

When your wedding is in the winter and the ceremony is scheduled for when it’s dark out. Not having done the first look in natural daylight would mean the couple would have had mostly artificial light used during the formal portraits. This way, we got to take advantage of as much natural light as possible.

Be sure to think if the first look is right for you. If it’s not, that is ok too. It’s your wedding day and you should do what you want to.  I am an expert at scheduling and timeline building so we will get the perfect timeline that fits your needs!  Looking forward to hearing from you!

xoxo

Melissa

They grabbed their coffee and set out the beach. Just minutes after she said yes, they were surrounded by her whole family.

We met at Bear Creek Park in Surrey for their engagement session, the sun was beaming, the flowers in bloom and we found a cute little chapel in the woods! Not having been to this park before and finding this great location, I mean, a chapel in the woods!? What a find. Let’s just say it took everything I had not to start doing the moonwalk infront of them.  :)

They make each laugh, are playful towards each other and you could just tell how much in love and how comfortable they are with each other. They simply bring out the best in each other. Isn’t that what love is all about?

I am honoured to be capturing their “I do’s” this June!

xoxo

(Make up + hair by: Sara Baird Makeup and Hair)

We have some Canuck fans here!

The Teahouse, Stanley Park

” Nestled in the heart of Stanley Park sits the Teahouse Restaurant, serving some of Vancouver’s best cuisine since 1978. The panoramic ocean views at this romantic spot located at Ferguson Point earned the Teahouse the title of “Best Sunset in the City”. Along with the scenery, the Teahouse offers the warmth and charm of a historic house, and delicious West Coast cuisine using fresh local ingredients. This iconic restaurant has a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere that comes alive at night. Beautifully lit, there is a fireplace in every room, adding a delightful glow to the evening mood and taking the chill off any rainy Vancouver night. A scenic drive into Stanley Park brings you to Ferguson Point.”

The Teahouse’s unique setting is only matched by the beauty of it’s interior.  The Conservatory, the Tea Room and the Drawing Room are all stunning, complete with fireplaces and breathtaking views of the sun sinking into the water.  All the rooms offer linens, glassware, and candles, which are included in any event package.

The Conservatory and the Tea Room holds a maximum of 110 guests.  The rooms are joined by French doors and are both truly breathtaking.  The Conservatory has a glass ceiling and live trees growing in the center of the room while the Tea Room offers rich architecture and ambiance.

For all your questions in regards to what is included for your wedding (or event), please contact Frankie at teahouseevents@vancouverdine.com. She will assist you all your needs!

An example of of a stand up cocktail and appetizer set up in the Drawing Room

An example of the Drawing Room with a sit down option (below photograph courtesy of the teahouse)

Stunning views…

Impeccable food and wine. Frankie will be sure to pass along the menu options for your wedding or event!

The Tearoom corner (photo below courtesy of the teahouse)

The Conservatory Room (photo below courtesy of the teahouse)

Is really an amazing venue and I can not say enough about the staff and hospitality every time I am there. Contact Frankie for your questions! (teahouseevents@vancouverdine.com)

I hope to photograph here again soon!

xoxo

Melissa

Let’s face it, men do not take as long as woman to get ready. Simple as that. Men take their two-in-one body cleanser and face wash and call it a day. Woman, well, we just have one of everything, individual bottles for each type of product. From the face creams, to the face wash to the night creams, to the exfoliating and list goes on and on. Don’t even get me started on the makeup.

Needless to say, when it comes time for the “groom prep” photos of on the wedding day, this is usually done in less than 30 minutes, whereas for brides, I like a good hour. Don’t get me wrong though, if the timeline allows for more coverage of the groom’s prep then I’ll take it, but usually the timeline only allows for minimal coverage. A lot of factors go into when it can be done. It depends on the timeline of the wedding day and where the groom is getting ready, or should I say, hanging out with his buddies and catching a bit of the game over beers.

If the bride and groom are getting ready at the same location, I usually can capture both of the getting ready photos no problem. If there is a time constraint, a second shooter is available to capture the groom getting ready while I would be focussing on the bridal prep.  Depending on the timeline and hours of coverage, I have also captured the groom getting ready at various locations throughout the day when the main events like putting on the boutonnieres or exchange of gifts are happening.

Like the bridal prep, it is important to have some tips laid out before I arrive to capture the scene. Ensure that all items are on hand for me to photograph in one place. The boutonnieres, the gifts for the groomsmen and family members, the gift or letter from your bride, cigars, unique ties and any other special element that pertains to the day.  Wait for me to arrive before opening gifts, putting on ties, boutonnieres, cufflinks and the final preparations are being done. We will also capture a few group shots of everyone and photos of you all just hanging out, being guys.

As we know, most woman have been thinking of this day since their days of dressing up like princesses and have spent hours deciding on make up, hair, accessories, nails, shoes and all the fixings. Again, men are simple, but you should think about a few things too, besides what’s going in the personalized flasks (lol). Manicured hands in photos just look better, instead of dry and flaky ones, so just put on hand cream or treat you and your lady to manicures before hand (you’ll get bonus points for that one!). Be sure to get your hair cut and trim any facial hair, eyebrows are a bonus too!  If you tend to get blotchy when you shave perhaps think about doing it the night before or early morning to let your skin settle before the photos.

I’ll explain more tips throughout the post!  Just know, I am a very good planner and when you book with me, I will be involved in creating the perfect timeline for your day.

Here’s a look at some “groom getting ready” shots that were able to be done as the bride and groom were getting ready in the same house. One downstairs and one upstairs. This was a big time savour and allowed me to capture both events.

The following photos were captured at the location before the “first look” at the ceremony location.  The groom and best man waited to put on boutonnieres and ties until I arrived.  Sure it’s not the entire groom getting ready events, but the main ones were covered!

These ones below were captured just before the ceremony.

Another look at a couple who were getting ready at the same hotel location, just different floors, all coordinated before the first look!  Again, being at the same location is a huge time saving tip!

When it comes to what to wear?! Be true to your style. I am sure you (I mean your bride – lol) have already decided on colors, but be sure to add elements that represent your style.  I loved this gents sneakers! Dress shoes were just not for him, so he stayed true to his personality.

This gent below has “skulls” for his cufflinks! 

The following couple pre-planned some fun photos and brought accessories that went with the theme, so fun! Yes of course we get traditional shots but it’s nice to jazz it up for a few shots too!

There really are so many different tux or suit options, ties, bow-ties, suspenders, 3 piece suits, just the tie…here are some sample ideas below.

Love this custom made peacock boutonniere, which of course went with the overall theme and colors of their wedding.

Don’t forget the little gents!

Of course we’ll get some traditional and candid shots…

But more importantly we will have allot of fun capturing the fun, playful side that comes when all the gents get together.

Albums can be purchased at the time of the booking or anytime after as well.  Some couples add gift certificates to their gift registry, come back after the wedding or even for their one year anniversary.

There are many different styles of albums to choose from! A mix from Contemporary, Traditional or Retro, we are sure to find the right style that fits you!  There are many different colors, textures and leathers to choose from. You can also add on your initials in various ways too!

Along with the wedding albums there are also “family albums”, “best friend books”, “friends books” and “mini books” to choose as well!

After you receive your wedding images, the first step is to meet and discuss all your options (or by skype for my out of town brides and grooms) and pick the right album style for you.  After you have selected your album style, you select your favorite images depending on the number of pages you woud like.  I will create the album pages for you and send them to you in a PDF format. You have the final say and nothing will go to production until you are completely happy with the design and layout of each page.

Your wedding album will last for generations telling your unique story in a beautiful way.

Here is a look at the “Vegas” style Bride and Groom 10×10 Wedding album. It’s continuous cover in black leather, photo laminated onto plexiglass is one of my most popular albums!

This is a look at the “family album”, which is a duplicate of the main bride and groom album, size is 8×8. With one of my wedding album packages you get two “family albums” included! This is a perfect wedding gift for that special family member.

You can see the plexiglass finish here below and “flush mount” hard covered pages…

The pages are continuous, meaning they flow together without the interruption that is normally found between the middle of each page.

The ribbon colors can be changed to your liking! Below is an example of the “Bellagio” style wedding album. This one comes in various tones as well…

Here is a look at some sample spreads/pages below!

If you’re thinking of an album, let’s meet to discuss all the options!

xoxo

Melissa

(All images have been pre-approved to post by the client. We kept the more intimate ones for their eyes only.)

Thank you for letting me share these Maria! I think you belong on a cover!

xoxo

Melissa