Ahhh the “first look”. This budding trend made it’s debut on the wedding scene, and we think it’s here to stay! Whether you’re a tried-and-true traditionalist, or are looking to shake things up a bit…there’s plenty to think about when it comes to the first look. Capitalizing on TimeWhen it comes to wedding days, they have a tendency to flash by in the blink of an eye. You’ll want to capitalize on every second you can. After your ceremony, your newlywed portraits can take up to 23 hours, getting every shot you want in every location. The last thing you need is to feel rushed during your pictures, knowing your attendees are patiently waiting on you to celebrate your big day. The first look minimizes those rushed feelings by allowing you to sneak those newlywed images in before the ceremony. Of course, if you want to make sure to get those dreamy sunset images in, there’s no reason why you can’t steal away for a moment or two Focus on the MomentThe other big reason why first looks are taking root in bride’s and groom’s hearts is because it allows them the opportunity to refocus on the reason behind their big day. Like I said, the day flashes by before your eyes. It’s incredibly easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of getting ready, the caterer, florist, officiant, etc. It’s a great idea to take a minute and remember the love that is bringing you together. Also, for brides and grooms on the shy side, trading incredibly intimate vows in front of 150 onlookers can be a daunting challenge. This is the perfect time to swap those sweet words intimately. Plus, it makes for some truly stunning photos! Capturing Professional Wedding Photography in Washington DC is truly an absolute joy! Capturing Professional Wedding Photography in Washington DC is so much fun! Especially when I get to see new and exciting trends! The post Professional Wedding Photography in Washington DC | The First Look appeared first on Wedding Photojournalism by Rodney Bailey. Source: https://rodneybailey.com/professional-wedding-photography-in-washington-dc-2/
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As well-experienced Washington DC wedding photography artists, we have seen trends come in and go out of style, year after year. One of our favorite aspects of weddings we love to capture is the florals. From bouquets to floral crowns to altar arrangements, florals truly do add a touch of natural beauty to any wedding. Floral Trends of 2018Over the last year, we have seen a softer and more natural approach to arrangements arise. Long gone are the days of perfectly round bouquets and strictly formatted arrangements. We have moved into an era of ethereal and airy arrangements, full of life and movement. As wedding photographers, it’s so much fun capturing the personality of each floral aspect. Another trend we are loving is the use of unique and creative aspect such as bold colors, floral hoops, and asymmetrical elements. Wreaths and floral borders adorn almost every element at some boho-inspired weddings. Whereas runners of seeded eucalyptus has replaced the traditional petal lined aisles of the past. Trends come and go, just like personal taste and style. But we have to say, we are LOVING the wedding style of the day. A rise of artistic creativity is here, and we hope it’s here to stay! Each bride and groom is beautifully unique. Why shouldn’t their florals be as well?!
Capturing Washington DC Wedding Photography is as much fun as it is work. The artistic elements of each unique wedding are such a joy to document! The post Washington DC Wedding Photography | Floral Trends of 2018 appeared first on Wedding Photojournalism by Rodney Bailey. Source: https://rodneybailey.com/washington-dc-wedding-photography-2/ “A great photograph is one that fully expresses what one feels, in the deepest sense, about what is being photographed.” ― Ansel Adams As a photographer, I have always been motivated by capturing those milestone moments that people wish to cherish for the rest of their lives. Let’s face it – it is easy to remember something as special as a wedding. But we only remember the big events…the “I do’s”, the cutting of the cake, etc. What we don’t remember are the expressions of our loved ones, the way our spouse looked at us the altar, and the many other small things that seemed to go by way too fast. After following my passion to photograph great moments, I realized how much weddings had an everlasting impact on my career. Moved by MemoriesAfter my first wedding, I was inspired by the amount of love I saw. Not just between the couple, but the love and joy shared by the bride and groom’s parents. I loved seeing the love amongst the guests, and the love for the children that danced on the dance floor so carelessly. Photography can capture those pure emotions that we want to hold onto forever. Memories often fail us. But photographs can act as our memories by being something you can hold in your hands and share with friends and family. One thing I learned about weddings is that all of them are different. Of course there tends to be a general similarity between them. However, times and traditions are changing, so I am always kept on my toes. I have noticed that people are wanting uniqueness. They desire to stand out from the others. When planning a wedding, personal touches are added that make the memory of a wedding even sweeter. Because of this, I have gotten great experience with learning new techniques in order to capture moments in a way that is personal to my clients and without missing any special events or details along the way. As a Washington DC Wedding Photography artist, I am drawn to and motivated by the love my clients share. Capturing that love is such an honor! If you are interested in booking your wedding with Rodney Bailey photography, please reach out! I’d love to discuss your vision with you. The post Washington DC Wedding Photography | Moved by Memories appeared first on Wedding Photojournalism by Rodney Bailey. Source: https://rodneybailey.com/washington-dc-wedding-photography/ Washington DC Engagement Photographer | Indoor vs. Outdoor Sessions | Which is Right for You?6/28/2018 Think back to past holiday seasons. Do your memories include dressing in coordinating outfits and traveling to a studio to take family portraits? One person balanced on the stool with everyone else crowding around. One of the kids would keep wrinkling the backdrop. Hands, arms, feet and chins all had to be manipulated into perfect poses, and someone always forced an awkward smile like Chandler in the classic episode of Friends. Now, as an experienced Washington DC Engagement Photographer, I look back on those staged session. I can’t help but chuckle as I think back to those quintessential staged session days. An Updated Approach
Although we still cherish those memories and those photos, your engagement photos do not have to look like they were taken in the 90’s. With modern technology and techniques, your engagement session can take place almost anywhere.But how do you choose between an outdoor or indoor session? We’ll share some pros and cons to both, but remember to pick the option that best reflects you as a couple—your story and your personality. Outdoor SessionsIn an outdoor session, Mother Nature creates the backdrop, and she has some pretty amazing ones. Outdoor sessions generally feel more organic and natural and provide plenty of variety—including everything from open, grassy fields with fun props to secluded spots near the water with overhanging trees. You can always find a place with beautiful landscapes and flowers, even in the winter. Plus, natural light always seems to give an incomparable glow. Indoor SessionsOn the other hand, indoor sessions can take place at a memorable, historic, or architecturally appealing venue. Lighting and temperature are controllable, so you are not limited to a certain time of day. Depending on the location, an indoor shoot could potentially offer more privacy if being intimate in front of others is difficult. Indoor locations create a more sophisticated, refined look, while outdoor sessions produce more whimsical shots. Ultimately, the most important thing to take into account when choosing the location is whether it is special and enjoyable for you and the one you love—we aim to make your session perfect and memorable, creating photos that you can’t wait to share. And, if you can’t decide, why not do both?! Whether you opt for an indoor or outdoor session, trust us as your Washington DC Engagement Photographer to execute your personal vision! The post Washington DC Engagement Photographer | Indoor vs. Outdoor Sessions | Which is Right for You? appeared first on Wedding Photojournalism by Rodney Bailey. Source: https://rodneybailey.com/washington-dc-engagement-photographer-2/ Engagement sessions are some of my favorites because they are so fun to document. The couples are always joyfully in love, filled with the excitement and anticipation of what their futures hold together. Even though they may not know quite what to expect, they are eager to start their beautiful journeys together, hand in hand. Their genuine smiles are contagious and make my heart so happy. They remind me of all the beautiful stages in life—moments in our lives like engagements keep us going and excited about the future. Documenting Each Unique LoveOne of the best parts of engagement sessions is observing the different types of couples. They all have unique, captivating personalities. Some are affectionate and intimate, desiring more romantic shots. Other couples are fun-loving and laid back. They enjoy being the life of the party and keep me laughing throughout the session. And some couples are creative and artistic, celebrating a style that is unique to them. Engagement sessions are common, but every couple comes with a remarkable story. I love hearing about how they met. Some have hilarious, innocent missteps leading up to their engagement while others have more serious, inspiring stories to tell. I strive to capture the essence of these couples—to convey a little bit of their story and a lot of their character. Candid and genuine expressions are my absolute favorite to capture.
Capturing, and documenting the Engagement Photography Washington DC has to offer is a true honor. Thank you to all those who have trusted me with such an honor! The post Engagement Photography Washington DC | Capturing Life’s Adventures appeared first on Wedding Photojournalism by Rodney Bailey. Source: https://rodneybailey.com/engagement-photography-washington-dc/ Weddings are full of traditions – cutting the cake, throwing the bouquet/garter, saying “I do.” As these traditions are something that most of us want to experience with our life partner, times are changing! Traditions evolve, and we have seen a new trend of “the first look”. If you are unfamiliar, this is where the bride and groom meet before the ceremony. They get to see each other all dressed up in wedding attire for the first time. While the first look is beautiful, and something that I am seeing a lot of as an engagement photographer in Washington DC, it’s not for everybody! Are you unsure on if this new trend is right for you? Here is a list of pros and cons to help you out! Is the “First Look” for You?Pros:Time to Reflect – Having a first look gives you ample amount of time to spend with your partner. It allows you to reflect on what brought you to this big day. You can reminisce, talk about how much you love one another, and tell your new spouse how excited you are to be tying the knot. Time to Calm Down the Nerves – Getting married is a big deal! It’s expected to be anxious or nervous during this time. Seeing your partner beforehand will allow you to get out most of your jitters. Intimate Time for Just the Two of You – This is a wonderful time to share any feelings and emotions for your loved one without being watched by an entire crowd. I see lots of couples read a letter or even say their vows during the first look. Less Time Doing Portraits – Pictures usually take place in between the ceremony and the reception. This can be time-consuming, and your guests (outside of the wedding party) will often wait to celebrate until the bride and groom are finished. Taking first look pictures beforehand will minimize the time it takes to take during this part of the day. Cons:Not Traditional – The first look is not part of the traditional weddings that have taken place over the years. If you don’t want to veer from that, then this is not for you! Not the Same Reaction Down the Aisle – Many people love to see the groom’s reaction as his bride walks down the aisle for the first time. Since you see your partner before the ceremony, the reaction may not be the same. But still as touching as ever!
Regardless of whether you opt for the first look or not, we will be there the entire way as your engagement photographer in Washington DC. Each look, moment and memory will be captured and documented to be enjoyed for a lifetime to come. The post Engagement Photographer in Washington DC | The “First Look” | Is it for You? appeared first on Wedding Photojournalism by Rodney Bailey. Source: https://rodneybailey.com/engagement-photographer-in-washington-dc/ Marriage is such a new and exciting time in your life! Not only do you have a new ring, a new spouse, and a new family, but some of us have a new name as well! Many of us spend so much time wedding planning, booking a venue, dress fittings, coordinating Wedding Photography in Washington DC, etc.. Often, when it comes to changing our name, we forget all about it. The question always comes up…“What in the world do I need to do now?” No need to worry. We have you covered! Here are two options for changing your name after your big day. Changing Your Legal Name After MarriageOption A: DIY – This is a “do it yourself” option that requires many steps. But it’s definitely doable with enough patience. If you are getting married and want to know how to change your name the traditional way, this is the option for you!
Option B: Hire a company (like HitchSwitch) to do for you – If Option A looks a little overwhelming to you, there are companies out there that will complete the steps above for you. HitchSwitch is an affordable option (starting at $29) that will do everything you need in just three simple steps. If you are interested in learning more about HitchSwitch, and are interested in viewing their packages, visit their website here!
It is my goal as a documentarian of Wedding Photography in Washington DC to make each step of the marriage process as simple as possible for my clients! The post Wedding Photography in Washington DC | How to Easily Change Your Name After Marriage appeared first on Wedding Photojournalism by Rodney Bailey. Source: https://rodneybailey.com/wedding-photography-in-washington-dc/ It’s your big day, and you have everything planned – the venue, caterer, photographer. Everything is in place. All’s that left to do is have the best time of your life with your future spouse, family, and friends. A huge moment like a wedding is definitely one worth documenting properly. You want to cherish each detail. Hiring a photographer is a great way to do so. Wedding photography is an investment. Our job is to preserve memories and provide for you, a collection of snapshots of the best day of your life. Preserve the Past, Memories and MomentsWhile photography captures the details and the moments of such a big day, there are other things you can preserve as well. Invitations, place cards, printed material, petals, jewelry, and many other little trinkets can be held onto that will remind you and your spouse of your wedding. Of course, pictures are an absolute must. But having something tangible that you can pick up with your hands and feel will bring back so many emotions and feelings. After your big day is done, have someone set aside these little mementos from the day. There are several creative ways to display these memories…a shadowbox, scrapbook, album, or simply putting together a shelf or stand dedicated to your wedding day. Personally, what I did was save some petals from my bouquet and filled an ornament with them so that I get to see our flowers each Christmas on our family’s tree. It was a sweet (and cheap) gift to give my husband on our first Christmas as a married couple. Saving these precious details will add such a special touch to your wedding memories. Imagine the special moments your grandchildren and greatgrandchildren will share when looking through all of the items you collected!
Capturing these moments through Washington DC Professional Wedding Photography is a joy and privilege. Congratulations to this sweet couple. The post Washington DC Professional Wedding Photography | Preserving the Past appeared first on Wedding Photojournalism by Rodney Bailey. Source: https://rodneybailey.com/washington-dc-professional-wedding-photography-2/ “You will find, as you look back upon your life, that the moments when you have truly lived are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of love.” – Henry Drummond The Benefits of Professional Wedding Photography in Washington DCMeeting the love of your life is truly a magical experience. There is nothing as sweet to document and experience as true love. As a wedding photographer, I have the immense pleasure of seeing several couples who have found their heart’s counterparts. Two lives becoming one is a beautiful experience to capture. I’ve seen countless kinds of couples with countless kinds of love, and each one is just as important and special as the next. Tying the knot is a huge moment in your life that you will obviously want to remember and treasure forever. As our memories can remember the main details in a day, it is often that we forget the minor details. That’s why documenting your wedding day is such a must! Just think – of course you will remember walking down the aisle, saying your vows, and maybe a few other things here and there. But will you remember your spouse’s face when they saw you for the first time? Will you remember the way your family cried and smiled as you were looking at the love of your life? Better yet, will you ever be able to truly reminisce on all of these details just from memory? Maybe, but maybe not. Hiring a photographer to capture these small, yet precious moments on your big day will allow you to revisit the wonderful details – and share them with your loved ones!
Investing in Professional Wedding Photography in Washington DC is an absolute must when it comes to your big day! The post Professional Wedding Photography in Washington DC | The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Photographer appeared first on Wedding Photojournalism by Rodney Bailey. Source: https://rodneybailey.com/professional-wedding-photography-in-washington-dc/ “Once in a while, right in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale.” – Unknown There’s something that makes me feel so lucky to be a part of the best day of people’s lives. Life is made of big and tiny moments, each one is special. Working alongside so many wonderful people during these moments is what makes my job so worth it. Most would say that a wedding is a big moment in one’s life, and I completely agree. However, there are many small moments that take place in a big one. Capturing the detail shots on wedding days are super important to remind you of the small moments on your big day. Wedding days fly by, it’s my job to make sure we stop and capture every memory and moment. Unique Touches, Personal DetailsWeddings typically have a pretty similar schedule – getting ready, the ceremony, the reception. But what makes weddings special for me are the unique details in each and every one of them. You’d think that since I am a seasoned wedding photographer, I’ve seen it all, but that’s not the case. I am always pleasantly surprised with how intimate and personal my client’s make their big day. It is always such a blessing for me to see couples celebrating the love that binds them together. Documenting such special moments like wedding days are something that you will cherish for the rest of your life! There is nothing comparable to flipping through a beautiful album filled with photos of one of the best days of your life! If you are interested in discussing your photography needs, please reach out! I would love to help capture your big day. There is nothing more special than spending your day at the altar with the one you love, surrounded by family!
Are you recently engaged? Congratulations! We would love to chat with you about your engagement and wedding photography needs! The post Washington DC Professional Wedding Photography | Documenting the Details appeared first on Wedding Photojournalism by Rodney Bailey. Source: https://rodneybailey.com/washington-dc-professional-wedding-photography/ |