the origin story.
I met Brie in 2021 working at a summer camp. We ran into each other on a day off. I walked into a coffee shop, seeking to get some introvert time, and saw her reading a novel. I asked her about it, and we ended up talking for hours about literature, politics, femininity, philosophy, and so many things! After that, I would help her out in the camp kitchen whenever I could, and we would seek each other out for that unique quality time that recharges introverts :) During this time, I first heard about Dominic and their quiet dedication to each other.
Artwork by Mia Schaller (Brie's talented sister) @miaschaller
the details
the style - Brie is a Jane Austen period drama, rom-com, vintage creative. For her photos, I went for a darker edit, like Pride & Prejudice, contrasted with softer edges for their portraits.
the theme of the day was selflessness.
I've experienced many different tones of wedding mornings: busy, anxious, hurried, relaxed, contemplative, and every tone in-between. Brie's attitude the morning of her wedding was uniquely representative of the sacrament of marriage in how well she cared for others. She would pause her makeup to help a bridesmaid put on a bracelet or fix her hair. She was making sure everyone had what they needed and did not express any concern over her own appearance.
an artist's first look: Brie's dad is an artist with a studio on their property and we did his first look there so it would have an added personal element. One of my favorite first looks I've photographed.
click here to check out Jeff Schaller's artwork!
the ceremony
Pennsylvania in the Fall...
wild wedding party photos!
We all headed out to where Dom had proposed to Brie, a field near the water with a striking backdrop of Pennsylvania Fall. What a fun crowd! From serious photos to sock shots, mad scientist poses to fish faces, and let's not forget, photos with a horse that happened to be walking by?! These guys were up for anything!
and finally...
I have never taken so many couples photos
The final photo count for this day was 5,800 photos! I have never taken so many photos at a wedding, and I think it was a combination of the enthusiasm of the wedding party to try out my crazy group photo ideas & my obsession with how sweet Dom and Brie were! They made it easy to capture their love. It was so evident in each little action and teasing glance.
a quick tip for working with videographers
At Brie and Dom's wedding, there was a team of three videographers to coordinate with throughout the day. For photographers: in order to avoid stressing the bride and groom, I would recommend sharing your location and phone number with the videographers and touching base with them before the wedding to make sure your addresses and schedules for the day line up. The window of time after the ceremony and before the reception is essential to both creatives, and so it is important to make sure you communicate your goals so not to risk contradicting each other and confusing the couple. If you can, before moving into the group photos decide on a few prompts that will benefit both creatives, typically active prompts such as cheering, throwing them in the air, a group hug, etc. so that both the videographer and photographer can benefit from the prompt! Also decide who will be communicating with to the group so their attention isn't split!
the main idea: communicate goals to avoid confusing the couple/bridal party
click through the night!
key moment to look out for: It was the groom's grandmother's wedding anniversary, so each of her grandsons took a turn dancing with her after the first dances!
Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs. Rock!
