Candid moments are still king. Those that know my style know I love bold cinematic scenes, but while the candid may not end as a large canvas on the wall, it’s no less valuable. This moment from Kristen and Neil’s wedding was probably one of my most priceless candid’s of 2009, but it needs a story.
This is. Stephanie (who also happens to be Kristin’s daughter). What you’re seeing behind her are the guests, and that shoulder on the right (facing the correct direction) is her sister Karen. Rewind an hour or so to wedding preparations. Stephanie has charge of the ring and decides it would go best down the front of her dress as it’s out of her way yet accessible. Fair enough. Everyone gets a laugh and we move on.
Now return to present. The ceremony is in full swing. I’ve snuck around back of the Gazebo at Warm Springs in because I liked the lighting and I like capturing things from different angles. Fast forward a few minutes more. The vows are going smoothly, then Kristen reaches for the ring… Houston, we have a problem.
Stephanie panic’s because she has forgotten to take out said ring. She then whirls around to hunt it down while avoiding curious eyeballs and guess who’s there looking her right in the eye. My mind subconsciously leaps for joy. This is the kind of fleeting moment that a good photographer watches for like an eagle waiting for a fish. I just have a couple seconds to get it, but I’m ready, my camera is ready and I nail it, bringing in two or three frames before the moment ends.
None of this has gone unnoticed of course and everyone starts laughing, Kristen most of all. Someone from the crowd shouts out to me. ‘Did you get it”. “Yes I did” I shout back like a proud father, and I can say this. I don’t think I’ve ever been more thrilled to say “I got it” than at this moment. It’s like that pivotal second when a hundred people decide if you’re just a photographer or if you’re a great photographer.
Stephanie did well, not only at making inadvertently making a priceless moment, but in taking part of the laughter that lasted throughout the day. Still I’ll wager the next time she’s a bridesmaid we’ll have the ring in hand before anyone sets foot in the isle and all you up and coming bridesmaids have been forewarned. Then again it’s not a bad thing to contribute a great moment… Gav
