My Favorite Bridal Photo

Well, I have two and I had a hard time narrowing it down. I have had many brides in front of my camera over the years. Many many I love, but I had to pick.

The first one is of MerriBeth. I love how creative she was and how much she wanted me to do anything that came to my mind. Such a wonderful thing being a photographer is to have the freedom to work! In this shot we met at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens where we walked into the Japanese Gardens. In a small section there is a clearing to the left after you pass the gates. Hidden but a great spot! I had a sheet which I always take with me to do such shots. I had her lay back as I pulled her train up.  The light was very harsh so I had her close her eyes so that she could relax between poses. When I seen her with her eyes closed, I knew this was "the shot". This hangs in my office and its been called "Sleeping Beauty", this has been the most used phrase by many, so everyone named it for me. MerriBeth is still my biggest fan and by far the most photogenic bride I have ever worked with!

This next shot is of Andrea and was taken at the Children's Harbor in Alexander City. Located on acres of water with numberous light houses.. this one light house was small but it is one of the areas the venue allows the bride to get ready. I walked into this area and my mouth dropped! I had NO light, brown planks for walls and ceiling. The only available light was with the window, YES , I said window,  not windows. I couldnt even keep the door open for more light to fall into this abyss. It wasnt until Andrea turned around that I finally see the beauty in its natural light. It was meant for me to take this photo. I took the shot, several actually, changing the composition a bit more each time. When I looked at the first shot. I was surprised. I didnt want to use the other ones. The vision I had seen and the want to capture it actually all came together in one shot!  What she was doing was looking out the window, saying" I wonder who that is?" A few guest had started to arrive. I didnt pose her. I just paid attention and it paid off! This is another photo that hangs in my office! Know when to professionally disappear. You will be surprised at the things you see!