As most folks know, my transition from full time photojournalist to wedding photojournalist began with destination weddings. After so much time in overseas countries covering gritty stories in incredibly remote and harsh locations… a wedding in Europe, Central America or Asia was an absolute dream!
They’re still some of my favorite venues if for no other reason that they usually span several days, and as a professional “storyteller,” there’s ample opportunity to get to know everyone and cover every element of the weekend. Here’s an example of one such wedding I shot at The One and Only Palmilla in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. It was named “Favorite Destination Wedding” by theknot.com:
Luckily, many of the great clients I work with create wedding weekends in that same spirit regardless of location. Their “destination” weddings may be a few states away from where they live, or in their adopted home city. The same elements of celebration, thoughtful activities and beautiful locations apply.
It’s a wonderful trend that I’ve delighted in noticing. Families are increasingly spread all over the globe and the weekend wedding celebrates not only the wedding day, but the friends and relatives that make the couple who they are. When I shoot in Maine, a schooner cruise, lobsterbake or sea kayaking trip is common. In Napa, it’s wine tasting, horseback riding and hot air ballooning.
Wherever your wedding is and whatever your interests are, taking the time to share your special place with those you love goes a long way to solidifying your location as a destination… regardless of the distance. Even if your wedding isn’t far from home, check out a recent book we collaborated on that features our work. It’s filled with ideas that are sure to inspire!
