I knew going into this day that Megan’s parents had passed away, and wouldn’t be there for her on this oh so special day. I had tucked the information away, and I was prepared to take photos of tears, happiness, or whatever happened. After all, as a professional wedding photographer, I see all manner of intimate, emotional moments on any given Saturday. And those emotions certainly inform my creative eye, but sometimes they seep in.
I admit, I wasn’t prepared when Megan stopped in the middle of putting on her gorgeous lacy dress. I was crouched on the other side of her bed, shooting across the expanse of white comforter, when she turned to me and said:
“Could you take a picture of this?” She pointed to a pink, heart-shaped scrap of fabric, sewn into the lining of her dress, close to her breast. “It’s from my Mom’s favorite shirt, and the seamstress sewed it in here so I could have her close to me today.”
That glimpse of fabric undid me. The absence of her mother came crashing in, and suddenly the tearful looks and heartfelt hugs from her bridesmaids meant more. I wiped away my tears, embarrassed that I let them fall and not wanting to project any of my emotions into an already emotional scene. I kept quite and channeled it all into my camera. Then I let myself be completely caught up in Megan and Michael’s beautiful west side wedding.
Congratulations Megan and Michael! I’m so happy for both of you.
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