Christine & Harrison | Film Black & White

For me there is a rhythm to creativity, a natural up and down.  When I am in a down swing my response is always to quit focusing on the end product and really dive into the process.  Lately film has been a great way to explore a slower, more intentional process of image making, and has provided an incredible spark to the usual post wedding season lull.  

I am so thankful that Christine and Harrison continue to let me use them as subjects when I need a creative push.  (You may recognize them from the y in-home morning session I did previously).  So while I awkwardly re-loaded film and fussed around with a much bulkier/heavier camera than I was used to, they patiently gave me space, and fell into the most lovely, sincere embraces.  

For someone who is always drawn to the slow and intentional work when creating, I don't know how it took me so long to find this process.  And as for the results, the timelessness of black and white and the beauty of film grain  has me falling in love.  

Rebecca & Alec | Semple Mansion Wedding

The first time we ever met, in a local coffee shop to chat about wedding photography, we found ourselves way past empty cups in honest conversation about vulnerability.  

The second time was just weeks before their wedding.  In this conversation we talked about the stress of last minute details and compromises, all the spent money and energy, and of course like any couple caught up in the heart of the wedding planning grind, will be asking themselves, is this all going to be worth it (we could of just eloped).  But then we talked about how weddings are about marriage.  And while you are getting married to each other, it is an entire community that can make that promise.  To have them surround you and say yes to supporting you throughout your lives.  

And so their day became the perfect combination of these things.  The ability to be open, and vulnerable, and love right up close, alongside the beautiful community that uplifted and cared for them so generously throughout the day.  Lastly, their thoughtful and intentional schedule allowed for so much time to soak up that community and take quiet moments with each other.   So many moments I, with the fullest heart, photographed.  And am certainly sharing in abundance! 

Venue:  Semple Mansion    Florist: Arts And Flowers        

Olivia & Sam | Lewis River Golf Course, Woodland WA

I met them in winter, for an unforgettable engagement session on one of the coldest days in Minnesota.  Then they moved back to the Pacific Northwest.   Olivia and Sam are the type of humans you immediately know have a heart of gold.  Just being around them you can feel their calm presence, and peaceful way of moving through the world.  The amount of times their parents told me, they were just the best kids.  They had grown up just 4 minutes apart, dated in high school, but moved states away for college.  Yet, they were meant to make it last, and finally, after 7 years, celebrated their wedding day on a rainy northwest October.  I am forever grateful that they flew me out to continue to document that story.  

Also having Amanda, from ARBR Pictures, along to be a second photographer was simply the best.  That girl!  Her friendship and talent are both a treasure.