Devon Country Ranch Wedding

Some wedding days just come together like magic…like when you have an amazing couple that choose to get married at a stunning private venue. That was the story for me when I had the opportunity to share in capturing the wedding of Stacey and Mike at the incredible Redlands Ranch near Devon, Alberta.

From the beginning of the day, getting ready in the gorgeous cottages, to the first look by the pond, and the trip to see the horses before the gorgeous late afternoon lakefront wedding with their closest friends and family, this day had a truly magical vibe. It was such a pleasure to see such a relaxed bride and groom enjoying their special day.

*All images captured while second shooting for the Elena Evelyn Photography

Check out her amazing work at www.elenaevelyn.com

A & R Mill Creek Ravine and Kinsmen Walterdale Bridge Edmonton Engagement Session

One of my favourite places in Edmonton to photograph engagement sessions is Mill Creek Ravine as there is so much variety (not to mention lots of curious puppy visitors since it is an off leash park). Angela and Robert opted to begin their summer engagement session there and once again, the location did not disappoint.

After Mill Creek, we moved on to John Walter Museum and Walterdale Bridge for some epic bridge shots.

C & N Rainy Day Engagement Whitemud Creek Edmonton

I met with Chelsea and Nolan on a rainy day in late spring at Whitemud Creek Park for their engagement session and the rain did not want to give us a break. So, we decided to just roll with it. We got wet. Really soaked…but were rewarded with these amazing and unique engagement photos!

Hats off to these two amazing individuals for toughing it out and just embracing the moment.

Sherwood Park Fall Family Photography

I can’t believe it is time to start thinking about family photos again! I thought it would be a perfect time to share this beautiful Sherwood Park session I did with Brenda and Quincy last fall on a gorgeous evening in a local park. I could not have asked for better people to work with or more perfect light for photos!

I love seeing the personalities shining through - really seeing the connections in the family to capture not only photos, but special memories.

Sherwood Park wedding photography Acreage Wedding - Edmonton Area Wedding

Chelsey and Michael were married in a beautiful backyard wedding at their home in Strathcona County surrounded by friends and family. The backdrop was truly stunning with gorgeous mature trees and lots of green space. They managed to complete their ceremony before the rains came and the sun came out again while we captured some gorgeous formals!

Edmonton family photography Blackmud Creek Fall Extended Family Photos

I met with the lovely miller family at Blackmud Creek Ravine on a sunny fall morning to capture some family photos. There were 8 grandchildren - 7 of them boys -, and i must say, they were an absolute delight to work with. And I love their wardrobe selection and how it plays so beautifully with the fall colors!

When time allows, I also like to take individual shots of the children. These guys were awesome to work with, so they each got their own moment in the spotlight.

And I always get shots of the moms and dad and grandmas and grandpas!

Acreage Fall Family Session

I met with Wendy and Clarence and their wonderful family on their beautiful property on a fall afternoon. Although the sun was bright, there were so many incredible wooded areas to capture some lovely family photos. This session was so much fun! Wendy and Clarence shared so many moments and so much laughter that I could barely choose my favourites! And of course, I always love it when the family critters make the photos.

Edmonton family photography Tips for a Successful Photo Session

Let’s face it - no one likes getting their photo taken. We all feel awkward in front of the camera. Trust me, I am the worst! But it doesn’t have to be painful. In fact, I want you to be able to enjoy your session and have fun creating photos together!

Wondering what to expect for your upcoming photo session? Here are some great tips to help things go smoothly.

1)     Coordinate outfits but don’t be too matched. Instead, choose a color palette, start with one color (usually mom’s outfit) and work out from there. Try to avoid being too matchy-matchy - you want outfits to complement each other.

2)     Start with a neutral base. Neutrals are often more flattering so start there and add little pops of color.

3)     Avoid prints. Solid colors tend to look better in photos as the prints can be distracting. Same goes for logos on shirts. Keep it simple.

4)     Be yourself. This isn’t the time to try a new style. You want to look and feel your best during your photo session, so wear something you would normally wear. If you are not a dress gal, don’t feel pressured to wear one! Your personality will shine through if you are comfortable and confident.

5)     Avoid overly tight - fitting clothes. Sometimes this will highlight areas you would rather not have highlighted. Choose outfits that flatter your shape and be sure to check out all the angles in a mirror to be certain you will be happy being photographed in your chosen outfit.

6)     Consider accessories. Scarves, suspenders and chunky jewelry can add visual interest to your photos.

Wondering what will make the session go smoothly?

1)     Stand close together.  I know, it feels weird, but closing those visual spaces really improves the photos and gives a feeling of intimacy.

2)     Relax. Just remember to laugh, play and snuggle.  It doesn’t have to be a perfect pose. In fact, not everyone even needs to be looking at the camera. Just enjoy each other and know that we are capturing beautiful photos.

3)     When in doubt, look at each other. I will guide your posing to keep things running smoothly and to help everyone feel comfortable, but when there are times I am not directing, look at each other, smile at each other and touch each other. That stuff is pure gold.

4)     Be prepared to move around.  We might be walking, lifting, climbing, sitting, or even laying on the ground. If there are any physical limitations, let me know in advance so we can adjust the shoot accordingly.

5)      Make sure littles are fed and well-rested. It makes a big difference. Bring snacks along if needed. Again, it’s all about everyone being comfortable.

6)     Dress for the weather. A cool day or a little rain doesn’t mean we can’t shoot, in fact, rain can make for some great photos – I always carry clear umbrellas! But, we do want everyone to be comfortable. Consider bringing a blanket for warmups as well.

Above all else, enjoy yourselves! I want your session to be not only great photos, but also great memories.

Edmonton Matrix Hotel Wedding

I love weddings. I can’t say it enough. And when I get to work with really cool, laid back couples who are straight up set on enjoying their day, I enjoy it even more. That was how it was with Jody and Alwin, who were married on a beautiful summer afternoon at the amazing Matrix Hotel in downtown Edmonton. The day was amazing from start to finish, from the fun-loving bridal party to the beautiful venue and unique location for formals.

All images captured while second shooting for Redtree Photography

We started our day with a few quick shots of Alwin getting ready at their Edmonton home.

We then headed off to spend some time with Jody and the bridesmaids who were getting ready at the Matrix Hotel.

The ceremony was held at the Matrix Hotel and the room was full of friends and family waiting to celebrate the marriage of the happy couple. The absolute joy on Jody and Alwin’s faces when they saw each other for the first time was absolutely amazing. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house as these two shared their vows.

After a few family photos, we took the bridal party to the Alberta Legislature for some photos. This crowd was so much fun!

And we just had to do one quick groom request before moving on - the classic Abbey Road shot.

We next traveled to Mercer Tavern and the neon museum for some fun downtown photos of Jody and Alwin.

One of my favourite moments of the wedding day is often the first dance. That moment where all the formal segments of the day are complete and the couple can take a breath and simply enjoy each other.

McTaggart Sanctuary Edmonton Engagement

I met with Cortnee and Chris on a beautiful fall evening at McTaggart Sanctuary in Edmonton. The colors certainly did not disappoint! This beautiful couple were absolutely adorable and clearly so much in love - it was a joy to spend time with them. Looking forward to capturing their Yellowhead Brewery wedding for Redtree Photography in 2020.

One of my favourite parts of this location is the beautiful blue bridge, so of course we had to get a few shots with the bridge in view.

We finished the shoot with a fun night shot taken under the overpass.

Allora and Ben - Willow in the Woods

Wedding days should be full of laughter and joy. This couple clearly understood that and their enthusiasm for the day was positively contagious. Allora and Ben started their day getting ready in Sherwood Park and then had a beautifully relaxed ceremony at Willow in the Woods near Tofield.

The beautiful fitted lace dress was sweet and romantic and paired perfectly with Allora’s cathedral length veil.

The Willow in the Woods, the sun was shining on them as they shared their vows with laughter and tears.

After the ceremony and family photos, the bridal party went to nearby Footloose Caboose for some fun and unique formals.

Colin and Anneliese - Edmonton Chateau Louis Wedding

I get to meet the most wonderful people in this job, and photographing the wedding of Colin and Annaliese was no exception. These two were just too much fun and no matter what the day threw at them (rain, rain and more rain), they didn't miss a beat and shared an amazing day full of laughter. They started their day with a sweet first look, and finished with a first dance fit for a princess. It was so hard to choose images to share, but here are some of my favourites,.

All images photographed as an Associate Photographer for Redtree Photography.

Final touches...

I loved this emotional first look at the Chateau Louis

The Alberta Legislature provided the perfect backdrop for formals.

A little rain is good luck on your wedding day, isn’t it?

A romantic stroll on the High Level Bridge before the storm hit.

And then a race back to the car…

Table centerpieces included Grandmother’s teacups and books from their own collections.

A first dance fit for a princess

The beautiful blue ring begged to be photographed on the candelabra.

Erik and Brea - McTaggart Sanctuary

After rescheduling due to crazy early winter weather, I met with Erik and Brea at McTaggart Sanctuary in Edmonton for some beautiful fall photos just before sunset. The fall colors were still in full force and we loved using the rich blue of the bridge to accent the oranges and yellows of autumn.

The meadow allowed us to take advantage of the beautiful skies appearing in the west…and for these two to have a few cuddles.

The beautiful glow of the sunset golden light made the colors just pop.

We ended by going under the overpass for a few creative lighting shots.