The purpose of this post is to answer a question that I get asked all the time by clients, and occasionally by other photographers. While I am obviously writing this so that you will have an idea of my approach to wedding photography, I am secretly writing this for myself. This will serve as a reminder to myself not how, but why I photograph weddings.

When I think about meeting a new client, I begin thinking of the relationship that I am going to build with this couple. From the initial communication, I am working towards building a level of trust that will allow you, my client, to let me into your world. I want to know the story behind your lives. As you read this your thinking that all photographers say that. That may be true but I truly believe my interest is different.

You see, I like people. And I like meeting new people. I think that everybody has something interesting to share with the world — even if they don’t think so. When I ask about your story it’s for the purpose of building a relationship, not fact finding. During my initial client meetings I am not armed with a pen and a pad. I have a questionnaire that I’ll send you when I am ready for a fact finding expedition. Initially, I am there for conversation — about you. I am there to start a relationship.

I know. You’re asking, “What does this have to do with your style?” Everything.

While I am at your wedding to document the day, I can’t do so like the pure photojournalist many photographers claim to be. That’s not who I am. I interact with my clients. Not to the extent that I interfere with the events of the day. That is something that I could never bring myself to do; just like I could not be at a party with friends and not engage in conversation. Do you see where I’m going with this?

Hopefully over the months leading up to your wedding we have built a relationship that feels more personal than business-like. My presence at the wedding feels more natural, and I am simply a friend with a really nice camera. It is this level of relationship that breeds beautiful images that capture the moments of the day and helps convey your story.

So how would a describe my style. I am an atypical photojournalistic wedding photographer, who begins capturing your story the day we meet.

On Saturday I had the pleasure of spending my morning with a beautiful couple. I couldn’t have asked for a nicer couple to work with. Due to time constraints at the location we had to start bright and early. Even at 8AM in the morning, these two were at their best.

We spent a few hours at a North Point State Park in Edgemere Maryland. It was my first time shooting at this location but it definitely won’t be my last. The park has a lot of cool spots for engagement session.

Here are a few picks from the day. By the way, the last two photos are just for you Nick. Enjoy!

To see more of the photos from the day, click here.

This past weekend I took a little break from the world — literally. The family and I went out to my Mother-in-Law’s property in Deep Creek for a little R&R. For three days I was treated to sparse cell service and no internet. I was completely out of touch and I loved every minute of it. I was able to enjoy my family’s company without the distraction of technology. I also found that my thoughts were more focused on the now. I wasn’t constantly thinking about the next business move or the next shoot. It was one of the most relaxing vacations I have been on in a while and it couldn’t have come at a better time.

Often we become so consumed with the daily grind of life that we forget what it’s like to relax and to breath. As artists this routine can quickly become a determinate to our creative process. We lose the passion that got us into photography, and we view each assignment as just another gig. Sometimes when the pressure is on we need to walk away instead of just pushing through. This weekend I walked away.

I was able to take photographs for the fun of it. At times I couldn’t help but pose the family for a few shots but I mainly shot what I saw. I did get a couple of good shots that embody the atmosphere of the weekend. I wanted to share them with you here. I hope you enjoy them. I definitely will.

And the picture that sums up the theme of the weekend….