When I was first dating my husband, Short Skirt/ Long Jacket by Cake was popular.  Dan said this last line reminded him of me.  I understand the need for rules and have a great respect for tradition, but I don’t believe in blindly doing anything just because we are “supposed to”.  This is very true when it comes to weddings.  So many people feel they have to invite certain guests, or incorporate something into their wedding just because other brides do it.

As a wedding photographer, I say honor tradition if it means something to you, or someone important to you.  If it doesn’t, think creatively, do want is in your heart.  I love being exposed to both new ideas and old customs.  I am photographing my first Korean church wedding this summer.  It is going to be very family oriented, and traditional.  I am just as excited to see what things are important to this family as I am to photograph the wedding of an outdoor bride that is doing every herself, their own way, just five days before, on a Monday!  Yes, to me a Monday wedding is an amazing brave decision in doing what you want.

One of my favorite blogs and wedding resources is based in Seattle, Offbeat Bride.  It’s filled with refreshing ideas for everything from flowers to wedding dresses, and of course real weddings.  They also recently launched, Offbeat Mama, a spin off that I can’t wait to read more of.  If your a new mom, check out this fun article on the author’s road trip with her baby.

]]> http://jessicashepard.com/2010/photography/offbeat-bride-offbeat-mama/feed/ 0 http://jessicashepard.com/2010/photography/seattle-photographer/make-your-own-wedding-rings/ http://jessicashepard.com/2010/photography/seattle-photographer/make-your-own-wedding-rings/#comments Sun, 25 Apr 2010 15:49:58 +0000 Jessica http://jessicashepard.com/?p=4150 One of my wedding photography clients told me about this really neat idea. Make your own wedding rings! It’s with an organization called Wedding Ring Workshop. You still end up with a professional wedding ring, as you are guided through the entire process. The closest one to Portland is in Seattle. It just sounds like such a sweet romantic thing to do. Book a fabulous B&B, stay in the heart of Seattle’s belltown, or head across the 520 bridge to downtown Bellevue to stay at the Hyatt Regency, with a view of the Seattle skyline from your bed. Drink coffee outside looking at the Space Needle at Bauhaus, go kayaking on Lake Union, and spend an afternoon creating your own personal wedding rings!

On Sunday morning, before heading back to Portland, visit one of my all time favorite places, the beach at Golden Gardens Park, in Ballard.  I visit Seattle anytime I can find an excuse.  Writing this post makes me want to load up the car and drive north!

Are you a full-time photographer?
Yes. I have a 32 hours set aside each week that I work either with clients or in my home office. In addition to this time, I spend countless hours thinking about my business, jotting down notes, running ideas by my hubby, corresponding with clients, and sneaking in extra work time while my daughter naps.

How long have you been into photography?
A very long time. Professionally, I have done portrait photography for five years. I started photographing weddings, and went full-time, about two years ago. I have been shooting with an SLR camera for 20 years, and am originally trained in film photography, though I now shoot digital.

What is your training?
I studied photography at the School of Visual Arts for two years. I have a bachelor’s degree in visual arts, with an emphasis in photography. I also have 30 credits post-bach of multimedia courses, which includes lots of Photoshop training.

How do you describe your style?
Wedding photojournalism. Editorial. Documentary. I observe. I capture moments. I intrude as little as possible. I direct during formals but still try to step back and let you be yourself. I believe on your wedding day you should be thinking about each other, and laughing with family and friends, not thinking about your photographs.

Do you shoot alone or with another photographer?
I shoot alone most of the time. I do have several second shooters that I have worked with, and you may elect to add one into your package. I generally recommend doing so for very large weddings, over 250 guests.

What if you are sick or have an emergency on wedding day?
Unless I am extremely sick I will be there. If there is an emergency situation with myself or my immediate family, I will contact every other photographer I know and do everything I can to find a replacement. If you have opted for a second shooter, he or she will take over.

Can I make prints anywhere I like of my wedding photos?
You may. I strongly recommend Mpix for prints. If you prefer to stay local, I would choose Portland Pro Photo. You will have a dvd with high resolution jpg files, and a statement granting you permission to make prints at any lab.

When will I get my photos and album?
I post wedding previews to my blog within the first week. Within three weeks you will have your web gallery of wedding photos, and your dvd shortly afterwards. Album design is ready two to three weeks after the gallery. After you give me final approval of your electronic proof, the wedding album will take four to ten weeks, depending on the type.

Do you travel?
Within an hour of my home, just outside SW Portland, is included in my packages. Pretty much, Portland, Salem, Vancouver and the suburbs are included. Seattle, the Oregon Coast, Eugene, Corvallis, and Bend are just a small surcharge to cover travel costs. If you are outside these areas, feel free to send me a request, and I’ll let you know if it’s possible.

Can I see more work, maybe a full wedding?
Sure. If you’d like to see a full wedding online, just ask. I can give you access to a web gallery.

When do I need to reserve a date by?
Most brides book with me between six and eighteen months in advance. It is possible to get a date on shorter notice, especially during the winter. If you have a date approaching, send me an email to see if I am available. I once accepted a booking on a Wednesday for the following Sunday!

How do I book you for my wedding?
You like my work. You have read my blog, and think you like me. The next step is to contact me to schedule a time for us to meet. We’ll have coffee, tea, or whatever you prefer to chat over. I’ll show you printed work, and we can go over all the details. A deposit and signed contract is required to hold your date.