This is one of my favourite Toronto Botanical Garden wedding pictures. When we were walking back towards the venue I looked for a proper spot for an environmental wedding day portrait. Next, I asked the groom to pick up the bride and kiss her.
Besides the fact that the bride liked this wedding picture, there are a few things that make it unique. First, the pathway creates a diagonal line that gives the image depth and makes it visually appealing. As a rule, diagonals are more interesting than verticals and horizontals because they suggest motion. In nature, verticals and horizontals are static while diagonals are things that are falling or moving. Second, the couple is positioned according to the rule of thirds. Third, the green trees make a perfect backdrop for this shot. Finally and even more importantly, the bride and groom have an intimate pose and enjoy the moment disregarding the photographer.
As a Toronto wedding photographer I target a sophisticated clientele. A long time ago, I learned that my brides want not only posed pictures but also candid, emotional or photojournalistic wedding pics. This image is so well executed, that it looks candid this by the fact I directed it.
To create this image I used a Canon 35mm 1.4 lens mounted on a 5D Mark III camera. In post processing, I use dodging and burning to draw attention to the couple.
Location: 777 Lawrence Ave E, North York, ON M3C 1P2.
