Capturing Melanie and Eric's wedding at the picturesque Botanical Gardens in San Francisco was a photographer's dream, especially with abundant natural beauty. I knew the couple's favorite spot was the New Zealand gardens, so we visited that part of the gardens during sunset for the perfect lighting.
We were near a bridge that crossed a pond, its waters reflecting the greenery around it. I just saw this image in my head! I positioned Melanie and Eric on the far side of the pond, with me standing on the bridge to take advantage of the sun's backlighting. The light was ideal, highlighting the couple against the backdrop of the garden and creating a focal point. I used the natural symmetry of the environment and composed the shot to include their reflection in the pond. For this moment, we embraced a pose that nodded to their laid-back style, reminiscent of the hipster vibe.
The lighting was so ideal that it required minimal post-processing, aside from removing a few distractions floating in the pond to maintain the image's serene quality.
I used my Nikon Z6ii paired with a versatile 24-70 Nikon lens. I was prepared for the challenge of the narrow bridge, which ensured flexibility in the composition without the need to move much. I chose a narrow aperture to have as much of the scene in focus as possible. The water, acting as a natural reflector, and the strategic positioning of trees created a natural spotlight on Melanie and Eric, making them the centerpiece of the photo.
This image is born from a deep understanding of the couple's preferences and the magical timing of the sunset. This image reflects the thoughtful planning, careful attention to detail, and openness to creativity I strive to bring to every wedding shoot.