The Ceremony

The Ceremony

I arrive about ten minutes before the bridal car and start shooting straight away — the groom outside, the guests, the excitement in the air. A small ask that makes a real difference: a designated parking spot near the entrance. I'm the last car to arrive and I carry a lot of equipment, so every minute saved on parking is a minute of photographs gained.

When the bridal car pulls in I photograph her stepping out, the nerves, the last quiet moment with dad — then I position myself where I can see both the groom's face and the bride coming down the aisle. During the sermon I work quietly: wide, medium and close shots early on, and then I sit down. The view doesn't change for twenty minutes, and your guests should be listening to the ceremony, not watching a photographer. For the rings, the kiss and the signing of the registry I'm back at the front.

Outside it's confetti — close-ups and wide shots, all natural. I give you ten minutes for the hugs and congratulations, then we do one big group photo while everyone is still together. It's the same unobtrusive approach I bring to every wedding I photograph in Cape Town.

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