Seattle Wedding Photographer | Paul & Britta Sammamish Wedding
I’ve been thinking all week about how to describe Paul and Britta. I was truly touched by their love story, and the whole experience of photographing their wedding day. So touched as I went through the photos, picking out my favorites and crafting this slideshow, I was fighting back saccharine, chick flick love tears. This isn’t normal for me. I can usually keep myself together. And by usually, I mean I can lose control of my bicycle, catapult over the handlebars and face plant into cement, and lay there laughing with blood running down my forehead (true story), but when it comes to real-in-your-face love, apparently I’m a wreck. It might be the way Paul’s ocean eyes look at Britta’s like she’s the only person in a crowded auditorium. Or maybe it’s how Britta looks at Paul with complete trust, like a little child gazes at the moon out of her bedroom window. That notion of safety in knowing the moon’s always gonna be there, looking out for you. All week it’s been sincere, honest, and displayed there on my 27-inch iMac leaving me reaching for my Kleenex box again, and again.
Looking back on the day, it’s kind of a dreamy blur. Everyone was so JOYFUL. Britta’s family and friends were so extremely kind, and went out of their way accommodate me and cheer me on throughout the day. It was a classic, traditional wedding. What comes first to my mind about the day isn’t Britta’s unbelievable dress, the delish food, or how wonderful the light was in the reception hall (though this gets serious photographer kudos). But the giddiness Paul and Britta felt for each other. And how it would have taken a steamroller to wipe the smile of their faces. More than anything else, I want this on my wedding day.
Paul and Britta thank you so much for being such a wonderful example of love. I hope you’re enjoying the Bahamas… and if I’m ever in Chicago we are hanging out.
Oh, and check out the sideshow. You’ve been warned though– grab some Kleenex first.
And a big shout out to my amazing assistant Justin Henning who captured some awesome moments!
What a cute couple! Love your play with sun flares as well.
Chantal,
Just like you said, we cried during the whole thing!! Thank you so much for your incredible gifts and for capturing us completely on this day!! Your praise of us is the most touching thing! We are so blessed by you and all your encouragement on that day and these days that followed. Seriously, any time you are in Chicago, you MUST come to our apartment for some coffee and treats. It is only necessary!! Thank you for all of this!!!
Blessings to you!
Paul and Britta
Looks like an amazing wedding, those portraits out in the forest are so gorgeous!
So sweet. And the reception looked so personal, fun, and beautiful. I am loving these regular posts, Chantal…
Chantal – you are a truly gifted photographer. Honestly – the way a worship leader is anointed to lead people in worship – you are anointed to capture incredible beauty with your camera. I don’t even know this couple and I was so moved looking at the pictures. When Charley gets married I hope you will be available… love you! Tracy
First time i’ve seen your work – and i love it. Brilliant style and processing. You’ve captured some very sweet moments. Well done!
Wow, these are just beautiful!! Britta is a gorgeous bride, and I can feel the love (and the need for my own Kleenex box) all the way on the east coast! The special moments and the well-executed “formals” of the bridesmaids are all great. Congrats to the couple and to you for capturing their day so well!
Such dreamy photos!!! I love love LOVE the first black and white – you need to get a huuuuuge sample print of that ASAP.
They seem like a fun couple. Great job capturing their day. Big fan of the second photo, nicely done.
Nice work! I love the ring shot.
Fantastic images – love the storytelling and love the final photograph. Both of them have such incredible eyes.
Really love the emotions in this set! And what stunning bride!
Wow – such a good looking couple! It looks like they were fun to work with and your photographs have loads of character! Good job all around.
Chantal, this is the first time I’ve visited your blog and all I can say is wow. Seriously. Your eye for light and positioning yourself to make the best use of it, isn’t just talented it’s diligent. You show that you’re really paying attention. You effortlessly storytell without forgetting your role as an artist and your art does not interfere with your beautiful ability to tell the story of the bride and groom. I also have to say I love the shot of the groomsmen with the trees in focus. It’s gorgeous. The whole set is perfect, so well exposed, composed and executed.
Thank you for the beautiful photos, Chantal. You captured the joy we all felt as Paul and Britta were married. I loved the hymn you used with the slide show — Praise to the fount of every blessing!
Chantal these are AMAZING! Thanks for all that you did!!!
These are nice.