We get asked why we chose weddings as our specialization for photography. First, it’s crazy how many areas of specialization there are in photography… you would think that “taking photos” is the same with anything or anyone. But, the detailed set of skills needed for each type is pretty fascinating. Portrait photography is different from food. Food is different from jewelry. Senior portraits are different from kid photography. Landscape is different from sports. The list goes on and on and on. You need different types of cameras, lens and overall equipment for sure. Isn’t it just wild? And then within those areas of skills, there are different styles. Just in wedding photography alone, there are various of styles, aren’t there? And as people get more creative, the more styles come out too. I mean, wedding photos 15 years ago when Craig and I got married were quite different. Ya’ll… let me tell you… wedding photography was NOT like this. It was just - “look at the camera” and smile type of thing. Nowadays, every couple looks like a model and their photos look like it could be in a magazine. Well, ALLLLL that to say… let’s go back to the reason why we are in weddings. If we can answer in one word, it would be emotions. Yes! That’s what sets weddings apart from everything else. We occasionally do other photography like headshots, products for jewelry companies and other sorts of products. And let me tell you… there are no emotions involved there. When you “show” these products the photos, we get no feedback. There’s no relationship with these products. All we do is take the pics, send it back to the company and it’s done. It’s fulfilling in other ways, but not in ways where it fulfills our passion which is people’s emotions. We don’t feel anything and that is what makes us hooked and addicted to weddings. It’s so personal, it’s so sentimental. It literally makes our heart beat and move and dance.
Kara & Kerry’s wedding was a reminder for us of why we do this. We enjoyed every second of their day with them - not just with our couple, but with their families too. It was heart warming to see Kara and Kerry’s family members take care of the couple and truly care for them. Kara’s sister was so helpful even for us and other vendors. The day was gorgeous and it being at one of our favorite venues, Little River Farm, made the day that much better. Kara looked stunning and Kerry looked handsome. Totally LOVED her gorgeous dress! Her makeup and hair were flawless, and more than anything, we loved seeing her smile and simply being happy.
COVID affected us all, and it’s heart wrenching when we think of the ways that it has affected our couples. One of the times, Kerry and I were walking to the portraits spot, and he got choked up. I gave him a minute and then realized that there were loved ones that couldn’t be there and that was getting him emotional. Gosh… in that moment, I turned from a vendor to just another human being feeling the affects of what’s going on in our world. It made me be still just for a few seconds to remind myself why we do what we do and THAT was why. Yes, we are photographers and that’s our job, but serving and helping others is what love most. So much love was felt at this wedding more than anything… It was wonderful to see everyone dance the night away and celebrate our couple who so deserved it. And you guys, our couple GOT DOWN! :) Kara + Kerry, you guys were so sweet and amazing to work with. You guys are sincerely beautiful people and it’s been a joy getting to know you and serving you on this most important day of your lives! Thank you for everything and we hope that you LOVE your wedding images. May your marriage continue to be filled with joy and happiness.
With much love,
Craig + Unchong
