I met Matt and Rossana for the first time in the Devonian Gardens a few months ago. I didn’t have a lot of experience shooting a wedding solo, as I was used to shooting them as a second shooter hutterite-style. Which is to say, we don't photograph any of the ceremony or reception, only group/family and photos with the couple. But they looked at my work and gave me a chance.
The day started in Hotel Arts, with steaming dresses, applying makeup, styling hair and for the men it started with a hot shave at London Barbers. I was grateful for the schedule sent by the wedding coordinator, Cheryl. A two page, minute-by-minute breakdown of the wedding. Which we surprisingly stuck to. It was vital in ensuring I captured the beautiful moments from both parties which were separated by a floor in the hotel.
After the ceremony, which was short and beautiful we all drove to Shaw Millenium [skate] Park in a limo. Matt is a skateboarder. We transformed the graffitied walls, the dirty concrete and skate bowls into our studio with some help from a powerful Alienbee Strobe. It was at that time that I realized why I was so skinny. I run a lot when shooting.
After two hours of shooting, we drove back to the Hotel for the reception. A pink flamingo room greeted us, a theme set by the folks at Fusion Bollywood.
During the reception the Maid of honor, April, performed a stunning rap song about the couple. I was surprised by that one, and utterly loved it. And then there was the money dance. The guests pinned money onto the bride and groom and then danced with them to the music of the bride’s dad.
I felt ecstatic at the end of the day. I knew the photos were good. I have high expectations for myself, and that day passed every one. I want every wedding I shoot to be better than the last.
Thank you Florian Lim for your help on this fantastic, sunny day. And thanks to Rosanna and Matt’s friends and family for making it such a fun day.
Thank you Matt and Rossana for allowing me to be the witness on your wedding day. It was an honor.
