After 13 years photographing weddings, occasionally a bride will still surprise me but it’s always the girl I least expect.
This is certainly true of Leah, who shocked us all on wedding day when she willingly wrapped herself with a 12 foot Python in route to the church! Her groom stood by his bride, just as shocked as the rest of us.
Therefore, I can say without any hesitation, that Leah was THE bravest bride. Because, even I, would not wrap a snake around myself. You might think I’d be that kind of girl, but I am not.
But this story isn’t about that… I’ll share that somewhere else & spare those who don’t like snakes.
I’ve decided to tell a different part of the story… about the view from behind the altar.
{Psst.. still curious about the snake, check it out here: ‘Is your photographer ready for anything?’}
The ceremony has begun. From behind my lens, I’ve caught my bride sharing a laugh with her father as he happily gives her hand to Christian.
I smile BIG as I trip the shutter… the interaction & emotion I am witnessing makes me giddy! I know I’m getting great shots and I want more…
I quietly change my position as the congregation begins to sit. I decide to sneak through the door on the side of the altar so I can get a better view of the couple. They had brought in a priest from their own church which means I am usually free to be as sneaky as I want. Upon my arrival, I wasn’t confronted by a church lady reminding me of ‘the church rules’ so this seems like fair game. Besides, I am frequently called ‘The Ninja’… because I use full advantage of my small frame to hide in small spaces.
In this situation, I find it’s best to get my shot then ask forgiveness later.
I silence my shutter, crouch down, monitoring my breath, slowly sneaking my lens around the corner in an effort to be as ‘ninja-like’ as possible. Then I hear a whisper coming from the hallway I’d just come through. My blood runs cold as I turn to see the church custodian motioning for me to come towards him.
Oh no! I’ve just been caught!
I slowly pull myself from my position and do I as I was told. But instead of scolding me, he asks “Do you want an even better spot?’
Shocked & delighted I nod my head as he takes me around to a locked door. He pulls out his set of keys & quickly leads me directly behind the altar.
“oh- hmmm..” I hesitate, ‘ I’m afraid the congregation might see me here?!’ I whisper.
“Naw!” Willie says with a wink, ‘Don’t mind them! Besides, as long as you get great pictures- it doesn’t even matter.’
I could have kissed him!
Once again, giddy with excitement, I find myself behind the organ making slow movements until I get my camera into the right spot. I notice a mirror on my right that provide a perfect view of the couple. To my left, I can get a straight shot of the bride & groom saying their vows with the crowd happily watching from behind. I stay in position, calculate my exposure & wait for the pay off.
Leah & Christian didn’t disappoint- their smiling eyes & constant laughter brought joy to everyone who came to witness. There I was, skillfully & thoughtfully hiding behind the organ to capture it all. Some days are better than others, especially when Willie is there to lend a hand!
Wedding Day Details
- Wedding Planner: Holly Davidson, Simple Elegance
- Ceremony: Second Presbyterian Church, Brookside
- Reception: Mission Hills Country Club
- Bouquets & Floral: Branches & Twigs
- Makeup: MAC on the Plaza
- Hair: Rio Salon
- Cake: Nancy Stark
- Ceremony Music: Moment Musical
- Band: Fantasy Band
- Photographer: Adrienne Maples PhotoStudios
Want more??! Their images will be released online in a couple of weeks. You can order your own prints from the day by visiting our proofing site here!