My Reason Why

July 2, 2014

Some people would say that being a wedding photographer is one of the best jobs in the world.  I absolutely agree with this sentiment, but not for the obvious reasons.  Let me start with a person experience that has hit close to home in the last couple of weeks:

My uncle, Ron, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer about 2 years ago.  He wasn’t given a great prognosis, because you really don’t get one with that type of cancer.  But he was positive, and all I heard was how determined he was to make it to my wedding (a little over a year from then).  Time went by, the wedding was getting planned, and they planned on flying from California for the day.  As the day got closer we made plans for if he wasn’t feeling well at the reception.  When they arrived I only have a little time to spend with him and my aunt; I had programs to finish and who knows what else to panic about.  Then the wedding happened and I was wrapped in bliss all day.  I know that he helped decorate as much as he could, and was so happy to be around for photos.

In my whirlwind of joy, my mom pulled me aside and asked if we could take a photo with just my aunts and uncles.  I had been very selective in the family formals I wanted, and it hadn’t been included.  I knew that this was an important event for her and her siblings, so I looked around for my photographer.  I realized, she had just mentioned she was leaving and I saw her getting in her car.  I ran out, and asked if she could take just one more photo.  I was embarrassed to ask, and I know that she was annoyed, but I asked anyway.  We stood right there, outside the venue, and got the photo.

About a week and a half ago, my uncle Ron passed away.  My first thought was “I’m so glad I had Kayla take that photo.”

After a little reflection, this was a big glaring reminder to me why I do what I do.  Your wedding day is going to be one of the most important days of your life, and for most people, it wouldn’t be the same without all of your loved ones there.  It’s about those special moments that are captured, when life is just pure joy.  Because life happens.  Bills are due, cars break down, and we inevitably lose people that we love.  But on that day, nothing matters but the love and joy you feel for your new spouse, and those who are there to celebrate you.

I love being a wedding photographer, because I love being able to be there for my clients in a way that no one else can.  I get to help make their day as wonderful as possible.  But truly, the most important part of my job is capturing every little moment so that you can go back to it, and cherish it, when life isn’t quite so joyful. For me, one of my favorite parts of the day is when I can take the bride and groom away and take photos of just the two of them.  These aren’t candid moments, but they still encapsulate the pure love and joy that my couples feel for each other, and from those around them.

To all of my clients, thank you so much for letting me be a part of your day.  I feel like I say that a lot, but I mean it with my whole heart.  I know that I hold something precious in my hands, and I promise to do everything in my power to create images that remind you how you felt, and who you loved.

-Meghan

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