CAPTURE THE MOMENT

Wedding photographer Wendell Jonathan Herbert of Vision in Photography (VIP), part of L. Edwin Group of Companies, shares some of his candid moments behind the lens and offers some insight into what the modern day bride should look for in a photographer.

Wendell describes his style as “story telling”, and what better story to tell than that of a two people who have made the brave decision to declare their love in the presence of their family and friends? “I like to have fun with my clients while capturing the candid moments (and) natural bursts of expression,” says Wendell, who has six years of experience – or rather stories, to share. Regardless of the public spectacle of the event, a wedding is still an intimate affair and Herbert advises that a photographer get to know their clients before the big day.

“I love spending time with my clients, understanding them and their personality so that I can know what means most to them and capture that.” The couple’s personality should always shine through. “I like the groom to be himself,” says Wendell. “If he is comical let’s bring out some of that in the photos. When you look at your pictures you must say ‘Yes! this was my wedding!’” Modern day couples have become a lot more adventurous than their parents before them, opting for scenic views as the backdrop for their photos, although Wendell insists that traditional portrait shots are still relevant. He says there are benefits to taking wedding pictures on an island, as there are numerous locations that offer couples a stunning scenic setting for their memories. From the Bamboo Cathedral to any one of our pristine beaches, they have options so they are not limited to portraiture. Even locations that may not seem like much at first can make for an amazing shot, if the photographer knows where to look.

He jokes he has even used “the government roads” as backdrops for couples in the past. As he puts it, “It’s not so much the venue but the professionalism of the photographer as one can take the most simple location and create spectacular photos.” However, he does admit that couples he has worked with in the past always go for something a little “outrageous”. Ultimately the decision is up to the clients. “The photography and the moment is all about them.” Wendell cites some of his favourite moments to capture during a ceremony and the effect that it has not only on the guest, but the photographer himself. “That moment when the groom sees the bride walking down the aisle. Wow, speechless!” he says, passionately. There are also incredible moments to be shared between the parents and the bride during final preparations, he says.

“I love the passion (and) the emotions. I love seeing the truth unfold.” There are also many comical moments, such as the tossing of the bouquet. “It is amazing to see the girls reaching to the sky and the anticipation as the bouquet starts to slowly come into the hands of that one person…then the scramble!” he jokes.

The opportunities for memorable shots are endless at a wedding. From the first kiss to the first dance, these are precious memories to last a lifetime. So when looking for a photographer, be sure to find someone who is willing to treat your memories as delicately as you would.

“Photography for me is a chance to make someone smile,” says Wendell. “It is my chance to create moments that they thought were ordinary into extraordinary.”