This image of the bride and groom proves that if you look different at a problem, you can convert it into an opportunity.
While photographing the bride and groom at this Berkeley Church Wedding reception, I noticed a harsh shadow on the bride's face caused by an orchid centrepiece. I was using four strobes and four huge umbrellas to illuminate this scene and I did not have time to move the lights as the speeches were happening and I would have missed all the candid reactions of the bride groom and the parents. I felt trapped without exit. No matter what I did, the annoying shadow would not disappear. I could not move the light or the centrepiece so I had to do something.
Suddenly, I had an idea. I shot very tight and used the shadow to my advantage. The shadow on the bride's face looks exactly like a beautiful henna design. I also love the fact the couple has divergent expressions. While the groom is bursting in laughter, the bride has a pensive, serious look. In the background you can see guests reacting to the speeches. The light bubbles in the foreground are bokeh caused by the light bouncing into the glass decorations on the head table.
In conclusion, looking at this tough situation from a different angle helped me achieve this beautiful image of the bride and groom that boasts two pages in their wedding album.
The photograph features Berkeley Church, a beautiful wedding venue in downtown Toronto, Ontario.
Location: 315 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M5A 1S7.
