WPJA Award!

Sometimes it rains. It’s as simple as that. Whenever I meet with potential clients looking to host outdoor weddings, we always talk about the all-important “backup plan.” Most times, that plan involves a tent of some sort. That conversation never happened with Elspeth and Tim because both of their venues were indoors. The ceremony (directly behind camera) was performed at the historic Aquia Episcopal Church in Stafford, VA, and their reception was held at the Fredericksburg Country Club. So when the skies unexpectedly opened just before the ceremony, we all kinda looked at each other in disbelief. Luckily, we had a tent (told you it involved tents) and a group of dedicated groomsmen ready to shuttle Elspeth from the rectory to the church, a walk of about 2oo yards.

The resulting image is one of my favorite photojournalistic moments of 2009. While I would normally sort out an image that obscures most of the subjects (there are 13 people under that tent!), I think the image tells a very clear and compelling story. Needless to say, I was absolutely thrilled when I was informed that this image was awarded a sixth place finish in the Wedding Photojournalist Association’s 2009 Quarter 3 contest, under the category “weather.” When you get a few free moments, please head on over to the WPJA’s website and check out all of the contest winners. I am completely honored and humbled to be in the company of such great photographers!