“That’s what it feels like when you touch me.
Like millions of tiny universes being born and then dying in the
space between your finger and my skin.”
― Iain Thomas
“Ollie!!!!!! How are you friend? I was wondering if you might be available October 30? Me and Bryan are planning on getting married…”
Danielle’s message came to me as a shock since I had no idea that they were even planning a wedding. But to be completely honest I’ve been waiting for them to ask me. Not to be vain, but I feel like I had a part in those two lovebirds getting engaged. So it’s just right that I get to shoot their wedding also. HAHA! Remember that secret proposal by the beach in San Diego? Yeah, me and Bryan planned and racked our brains trying to come up with the location and how to go about doing the shoot without Danielle suspecting anything. I think at one point we we’re going to pretend that I was Bryan’s friend who happens to be a photographer that is visiting from the Philippines and just wanted to do a shoot in the U.S. to build my portfolio. I also remember a scavenger hunt of some sort. And then there was another idea involving a family shoot. Trust me when I say that it got complicated the more we started overthinking things instead of simplifying. 😁😁😁
An author by the name of E.F. Schumacher once said: “Any intelligent fool can make things bigger, more complex, and more violent. It takes a touch of genius — and a lot of courage to move in the opposite direction.” So with that said, Danielle & Bryan was the epitome of this quote. Their wedding was beautiful in it’s simplicity and intimacy. And as much as I love photographing all the details that goes in a wedding, such as elaborate centerpieces and fancy invitations, its the “intangible details” that often goes overlooked. Those simple intangibles that manifests itself to the physical tangible details that couples do while they are together are the particulars that I always look for. The way couples look at each other, the way they kiss and just the way you can tell that they will always have each others backs. It shows in the images and will always make for wonderful photographs every time. Trust me when I say Bryan was hesitant doing the shoot so close to the water. And although his shoes got wet in the process, he knew how important it was for Danielle. I’m sure it wasn’t fun going to your own reception with wet socks and shoes, but it will definitely make for a lifetime of memories. And I think this how they got the most out of their big day. By letting go of the clutter and just by embracing the goodness and the simplicity of having just their closest family and friends to witness their big day. And in contrast, their wedding was then immersed with care, gentleness and was brimming with love all around.
