Today's Wedding Journal is all about receptions. I have covered many different types of these parties from outdoors in the afternoon to all night dancing to calm early evening dinners. I'll try to give you a taste of all types. Speaking of taste - the above photo is Heather and Flo having fun with their wedding cake at the Knights of Columbus hall in Hammond.
If time permits, when I first arrive at the reception venue, I like to take a wide shot of the untouched scene as well as detail shots of the various decor.
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More often than not, I will then take these wedding details and create a photo montage for the bride and groom's wedding album...
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For first dances, I have a unique method of that involves ( I kid you not) an automotive flashlight. Hey, it works for me as seen by this image taken at Avalon Manor in Merrillville, Indiana and the one below it at Marquette Park Pavilion in Gary.
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One of the most fun receptions was a family themed wedding at Coffee Creek Park in Chesterton, Indiana. The bride and groom walked out to bubbles being blown by their guests and they rented a playground for all the kids attending. It was a summer family picnic atmosphere complete with DJ and dancing...
Nothing like some cold Orange Crush on a hot summer day...
I guess some bubbles were left over from the bride and groom's big entrance...
I had to crawl on the ground for this photo of the flower girl, but it was totally worth it...
While it certainly is important to capture all of the reception events such as first dance, cake cutting, etc. this is also the time for candids. The reception is when everybody finally gets to relax including your wedding photographer. Natural, smiling faces ensue....
Sometimes I'll set up some shots that look spontaneous. Andrew and Megan were up for it when I suggested getting on top of the bar at Amore Restaurant in the downtown Square of Crown Point. One of my favorite sexy bride and groom shots...
Here is another candid photo I caught of these guys just before dinner was to be served...
When wedding party introductions occur, you never know what is goping to happen. Sometimes people really surprise me with a gyrating, dancing intro like these shots from The Patrician in Schererville, Indiana.
This bridesmaid and groomsmen are ready rock as they are introduced on the balcony at Avalon Manor...
Yes, it's true - the cake cutting is a wedding cliche. However, it doesn't mean you can't have a good laugh when doing it. Don't worry, no one is watching (not)!!
If you are a bride who likes to dance - I WILL FIND YOU and document it. So be on the lookout. :)
Father and daughter dances are important to the bride and Dad alike. I try to spotlight these parent dances just as I would the bride and groom on the dance floor....
The bride and groom twirl on the ballroom floor of The Patrician in the photo below.
Now, when it comes to the wedding party and the guests, I like to experimant with different angles, lighting and tones...
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Here is one with an ultra wide angle lens for a really different perspective...
Depending upon the individual, the best man's speech can be eloquent or silly or a little bit of both. Either way, it's a moment to not be missed....
As you plan your reception, I encourage you to go out there and have fun with it. The venue is really secondary to the people and the emotion in the room.
Let's toast and sing to the party and the honeymoon to follow....
