These were captured a couple of weeks ago at the UW campus on the hottest day of the year so far, with temperature in the whopping 70’s! I swear the entire city of Seattle was out in the sun enjoying a beautiful day. 
Photo District News (PDN) is a well-respected magazine for professional photographers and I’ve always been a fan. I was honored recently that PDN wanted to pick my brain on destination wedding photography for their special Wedding and Events Issue. While most of the converstation and information I provided to the writer was integrated into the article rather than quoted directly, I still enjoyed sharing my knowledge and experience on destination weddings with the magazine for other professional photographers. I have been photographing destination weddings for a number of years and contrary to what some may believe, shooting a destination wedding is no holiday given the extra work and time involved. With international travel, there are also pitfalls that an inexperienced photographer may not be prepared for. While there are a few downsides from the photographer’s point of view, I still find it very rewarding to travel to various destinations around the world and help capture the special memories for each couple’s amazing wedding adventure.
If you’d like to read more about the article, look for PDN at your local magazine stands or online on PDNonline.com (registration required).
(magazine cover photo by Jose Villa)
The results from the latest WPJA contest were announced recently. I am happy to share that received four placements.
Here are the winning images:
Of course as always, without my wonderful couples I would not have had the opportunity to capture these images. Special thanks to Jennifer + Chad, Cheryl + Lowell, and Sheila + Dan!
Last year, Jennifer and Chad flew from San Franciso to Mexico for their beautiful destination wedding in Playa del Carmen. The night before their wedding, they planned a great welcome dinner for all their friends and family in the Yaxche Mayan restaurant right in the heart of Playa’s Avenida Cinco. I particularly enjoyed the experience because it was also Dia de Los Muertos, and it was a first for me to be right in the middle of the Dia de Los Muerto festivities, right in Mexico. Everywhere we went, there were beautiful altars set up to honor the desceased. During the evening, we were also treated with a traditional cleansing ritual by a Mayan priest as well as a very special Mayan performance. It was a great kick off for their wedding adventure in Mexico.
Ceremony + reception: Shangri-La Caribe Resort Playa del Carmen
Event coordinator: Christine from Turquoise Reef Group Mexico & Weddings
Gown: Pronovias from La Boutique Des Brides, San Francisco
Check out all the amazing authentic details brought in from Oaxaca Mexico for the special altar, table setting, and the cake topper. We had a field day just capturing them. For their reception, Jennifer and Chad also brought in a group of salsa dancers to perform and dance with their guests. All I can say is “¡ caliente !”.
