Capturing Authenticity: Kevin & Abby's Engagement and Wedding Journey
At Luxposure, authenticity isn't just a buzzword; it's the cornerstone of my photography philosophy. Capturing the essence of a couple's relationship, their unique energy, and the moments that define them is what I strive for in every shoot. Recently, I had the pleasure of working with Kevin and Abby, a couple who have been together for 15 years, to create an engagement session and wedding experience that was as genuine as their love story.
An Authentic Engagement Shoot: More Than Just a Photoshoot
The engagement session with Kevin and Abby took place at "I've Got Dreams Studio and Loft," a space that perfectly embodied the relaxed, intimate vibe we aimed to create. From the outset, the goal was to make the experience feel less like a photoshoot and more like a hangout session—a time for Kevin and Abby to be themselves while I just happened to be there with a camera.
We started slow, as I always do, to help them ease into the process. By embracing the initial awkwardness of being in front of the camera, we quickly moved past any self-consciousness. Kevin and Abby put together three distinct looks—ranging from casual to cozy to dressed up—that reflected their personalities and relationship beautifully. Despite hoping for a sunny day, we were met with cloudy skies, but that didn’t stop us. Instead, we pivoted creatively to capture the warmth and connection they share, navigating the softer light to our advantage.
One of the highlights of the session was recreating a photo of them from high school—a nod to their long history together. While there were posed moments, the real magic happened in the candid shots where they simply enjoyed the atmosphere and each other's company. These are the moments that truly capture the authenticity I aim for in every shoot.
Wedding Day: A Celebration of Love at Spencer's at the Waterfront
Their wedding took place at Spencer’s at the Waterfront in Burlington, ON—a venue known for its beautiful natural light, intimate space, and unique design. The setting was perfect for Kevin and Abby, offering a blend of elegance and comfort that matched their style.
One of the most memorable moments from the day was during the pre-wedding photo session. Abby, glowing in her bridal look, indulged in her favorite snack from the venue—expertly crafted dumplings that even earned a nod of approval from the chef. Another highlight was the traditional Filipino money dance, where guests pinned money on the newlyweds as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity.
Philippine Money Dance
The Philippine money dance is a bit different from other cultures. It is called “Pabaon sa Binibining” in the Philippines, which means “the gift for the bride.” In this tradition, the male guests queue up to dance with the bride, while the female guests queue up to dance with the groom. As they dance, guests pin money onto the clothing of the person they are dancing with. The pinning is usually a decorative of crowns, garlands, or patterns down their attire.
Capturing these small, yet significant moments is what brings out the true essence of a couple's personality on their big day.
Throughout the wedding, I maintained a connection with Kevin and Abby, ensuring they felt comfortable and at ease. Regular check-ins allowed me to pace the shoot in a way that aligned with their comfort levels, making sure that the day was as stress-free as possible.
Hearing Kevin’s feedback after the wedding was incredibly rewarding. In his Google review, he mentioned that the uncomfortable experience they had with another photographer was nowhere to be found on the two dates we worked together. This reinforced my belief that capturing authenticity isn’t just about the photos—it’s about the entire experience, from planning to execution.
Why Authenticity Matters
For me, authenticity is about capturing a couple with all their personality, style, and energy exactly as they are at this moment in life. It’s about creating a true-to-life snapshot of their love that will age like fine wine. Every couple is unique, with different dynamics, and my job is to reflect that uniqueness in the most genuine way possible.
Whether a couple prefers a laid-back, casual vibe or a more glamorous, upscale aesthetic, the underlying theme is always love. Effective planning and open communication are key to making sure we’re all aligned on the vision for the shoot. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, certain elements—like who’s behind the camera and how the day is planned—are universal in ensuring an authentic experience.
In the end, I don’t just take photos; I create art that tells a story—a story that is true to who you are as a couple, captured in a way that feels effortless and real. Kevin and Abby’s journey is a perfect example of how embracing authenticity leads to timeless images that you’ll cherish for years to come.
Thank you, Kevin and Abby, for trusting me with your memories and making it look so effortless. Here’s to many more years of love and happiness!