Hotel Baker, with its old-world charm, is a perfect location that makes both the bride and the photographer look good:  rounded ceilings, wrought iron railings, ornate enclaves, marble staircases, and gardens that overlook the rushing Fox River with the quaint downtown St. Charles as a backdrop.

Over this past weekend, I had the opportunity to take part in a Bridal Photo Shoot at the historic Hotel Baker hosted by Walter Malabehar-Cantu.  Here, I had the privilege of working with  Annabel Corona-Malabehar who was the make up artists during this photoshoot.

As always, there are many challenges to getting the perfect image.  One has to capture the emotions and feelings in context while incorporating the environment and settings that will highlight but not distract from the bride.

I am often asked about my photography style.  In one word, it’s all about comfort.  In an ideal world, I fade into the background while the bride and groom interact.  This frees them to act naturally and me to be creative in order to get the best angles and shots.  I strive to be true to the bride, groom, and the experience they desire.  I realize that I am shooting real people, real life, not high-fashion models.  I don’t want my photography to be stiff and posed.  This is something I keep in mind while shooting in order to help the bride look her best on her most important day.  This requires me to bring my expertise and knowledge of how to work with people.

One of the things I really enjoy personally about weddings, besides the spirit of celebration, is the getting ready shots.  For both bride and groom, it is important to capture these laid-back, casual moments with friends and family.  When properly documented, these shots reveal feelings and emotions that lead up to the ceremony.  For the photographer, this is another way to help the couple relax, to get some laughs and enjoy being in front of the camera.