Kate & Tyler - PEI wedding at Dalvay Beach

wedding date - July 29th, 2017

A mutual friend of Kate & Tyler's insisted for years that Kate just HAD to meet this Tyler guy, but Kate kept brushing it off. Eventually during an evening with friends at Marc's Studio they connected and Kate later realized the guy she was chatting with was Tyler, the one she had been hearing of all along. After a Facebook add and a some messages, they went on a date and the rest was history!

Three years later with their dog Finny in one arm, Tyler proposed in front of the lighthouse at Covehead Beach in June, 2016. Afterwards they went back to Kate's parent's house and celebrated with all her immediate family! 

Excitement was in the air during Kate & Tyler's wedding day. The mood was fun, light hearted, and definitely energetic! My favorite thing about Kate & Tyler is Kate's ever present excitement and enthusiasm mixed with Tyler's calm and cool demeanor. They make such a great pair that are so fun to be around and you always feel at ease. Capturing their personalities, relationship and dynamic was a blast and as Kate put it, "the best day ever!!" Thank you so much to everyone who pulled this day together, and Kate & Tyler for choosing me to capture it! 

Congratulations to The Moirs! 

advice from the couple

"There are so many options out there and it is easy to get swayed into "what is popular" but I think what we loved most about our wedding is that we truly did what made us happy and we both tried to put the focus on each other, and not the small details. Also, try to remember every moment! It goes by in a flash!"  

Number of guests - 150
venue - dalvay beach and confederation centre of the arts

officiant - jeff macdonald (brother of the bride)

hair - lydia ferguson

makeup - rebecca powers

wedding dress - hayley paige "sunny gown"

Groom's suit - Moore's

FLorals - Island Meadow Farms

Decorator - Jessica Foster

DJ - Music Express
Cake - Buns n Things

Transportation - Coach Atlantic

Videography - Ashland Weddings

Photography - Brady McCloskey Photography

2017 Favorites

Sitting down and compiling this collection is always something I look forward to every year. It allows me to look back on everything I've captured that year and choose my personal favorite photos. For many different reasons, these are some of the shots that stand out.

In 2017 we delivered a total of nearly 29,000 photos to wedding, portrait, and commercial clients. Thinking about that number is overwhelming, and thinking of all of that work is too. But year after year I continue to love this creative field that introduces me to so many people, making real connections along the way. To absolutely everyone who trusted and hired me this past year, I appreciate you so much. A huge thank you as well to everyone who followed along or gave support in any way!

2017 seemed to be a year of surprises for my business and I'm so fortunate for all of these opportunities. My favorite photography podcast recorded an episode about me, I hired my first part time employee, was contracted by the New York Times, and was named one of the top 25 most inspiring photographers in Canada. What a ride! 

Without the fun and interesting interactions, dynamics, and relationships of clients, there would be nothing. A photograph aims to tell the story of what happened, so thank you all for providing these amazing stories. 

Enjoy ~

7 Photos, 7 Stories

Often times there is so much more behind a photograph that we don't see. The backstory can be so important and a photograph only captures this for a split moment. A story can make a photograph, and a photograph can make a story. I've captured thousands of these over the years and don't get enough chances to share them, that's why I've chosen to highlight 7 photos and the stories behind them. Thank you to those who shared their stories with me. 

Enjoy. 

The Tear

I admit, I've been chasing this photo for a long time. Countless times I have stepped behind the bride and her father as they come down the aisle, framing the groom and hoping he will show real emotion in his face. I never like to do things twice, but it's so rare that everything comes together perfectly so I had challenged myself and was determined to capture this shot eventually. On a Summer day in July 2016, I did what I had done many times before and framed this shot of Michael watching Laura and her father walk down the isle. To my selfish delight and excitement, there it was - the full emotion, tears, and woah, wait a minute.....the icing on top, a KLEENEX! YES! Michael was incredibly excited to see his beautiful bride and this photo really preserves that moment. Laura later told me the moment she walked down the isle was her favorite of the day, so being able to capture it like this was really special. This photo became one of my favorites shots from 2016. 

The Dance

Back in 2013 I photographed Carlye & Jon, a wedding day that will always have a special place in my heart. One of the reasons was this particular photo. About a year before their wedding, Carlye's good friend Jacob suffered a traumatic brain injury that confined him to a wheelchair. During his long recovery, he promised Carlye he would stand up and be strong enough to dance with her on her wedding night. After many hard months of rehab and a strong determination, Jacob did what he promised, stood up out of his wheelchair that night, held on to Carlye and slow danced to an entire song. Besides the beautiful music by Ten Strings & A Goat Skin, you could hear a pin drop in the barn that night as all eyes were on this amazing moment. Today, four years later Jacob now doesn't even use a wheelchair and has gone on to be married himself. An amazing turnaround from a person they weren't sure would even survive the air lift to Halifax the night of the injury. 

The Proposal

In the Fall of 2015 Sam booked a session for her, her boyfriend Dylan, and the couple's two dogs. That was all good and I was looking forward to meeting them at Orwell Corner one Sunday afternoon. A couple weeks later I was excited to receive an email from Dylan letting me know he actually planned to propose at their session! We worked out a plan together and waited for the day to come. When that Sunday arrived, it unfortunately was pouring rain but knowing what was about to happen and not wanting to wait for a new day, we both had to convince Sam that yes, it was a great idea to still go ahead - pouring rain and all! In Sam's mind I'm sure there wasn't any logical reason why the session should still happen outdoors, but I brought umbrellas and they showed up as planned. After taking a few photos and trying to stay dry, I set Dylan & Sam up in a perfect location and let the proposal happen. Everything worked out in the end, the rain stopped, and of course, she said YES. Afterwards we all laughed as Sam pieced the whole puzzle together! Such a fun moment to be a part of for two very sweet people.

The Rocks

16 years ago, Len & Brent travelled from Vancouver for their first trip to PEI together. Len is originally from the Island and wanted Brent to experience his home province and meet family, so they packed their bags. After checking into their cottage the evening they arrived, the first place they headed was to the rocks at Cavendish Beach, one the the most picturesque places on the North shore. Years later, in the Summer of 2015 they returned to that very spot to exchange their marriage vows. It was a heart felt and emotional ceremony that really was a beautiful thing to be a part of. As a special touch at the end, Len & Brent walked to the water's edge and tossed in two small glass hearts made by a favorite Vancouver artist. This was a little tribute to the place that is so special to them. Many times they have strolled the beach looking for sea glass and they know some day someone will find those hearts and hopefully experience the same excitement and joy. 

The visit 

For the past 3 years Mary has worked as an RCW worker at the Dr. John Gillis Memorial Lodge in Belfast, PE. Throughout these years she has built strong friendships with the senior residents, laughing with them, caring for them, and helping with daily activities. According to Mary, the residents talk to you about life, they give advice, and they get over the moon excited for you when you share any exciting news - especially an engagement and planning a wedding! Since the residents and staff are like family, they became just as excited about the upcoming wedding as the rest of Mary & Leo's family and friends. Since they were unable to attend, Mary & her husband Leo made it a priority to stop by the lodge on their way to the reception that evening, visiting every guest and every room for a quick Hello, hug, or chat. This particular resident Kenneth has grown fond of Mary over the years, always making her laugh and making sure to share one dance for her every Saturday during the hoedown. He was just one of the residents so excited to see their Mary, who they love so much. Being there to capture everyone's joy and excitement was so much fun to experience. 

The Goat

This past Summer I photographed the fun and energetic wedding of Kelly & Ian, a good time from start to finish. After the speeches were finished that evening I was pulled to the side by the MC and told they had one more surprise gift for the bride and groom. Outside the tent he said was a live GOAT about to be walked in! Ian grew up on a farm while Kelly is a self proclaimed city girl and not who you would call an animal lover at all. Their friends knew how much of a laugh this would bring so they adorned the goat in a "the gift of love" ribbon and walked it into the tent to everyone's shock and surprise - especially Kelly. After the looks of confusion, surprise, and even horror from the bride, everyone had a great laugh. Today, Milly the Goat as she's been called, happily lives on Ian's family farm, frolicking with the families two dogs and enjoying the open space. They now love their new part time goat and Kelly is just happy it wasn't a full time puppy like Ian wanted! 

The Ladybug

Natasha and her Mother were very close when she was growing up. Their 'thing' was always ladybugs and any time either of them would go away without the other, they always brought home a small gift that was ladybug related. This continued for years and the ladybug forever became a special symbol and reminder of Natasha's Mother after she passed away. During visits to the gravestone, or after a rough day, a ladybug would somehow always appear for Natasha when least expected. Even on a January day in -40 weather, Natasha and her husband moved into their new apartment in Alberta and when they arrived for the first time there was a ladybug inside, welcoming them home. After their wedding ceremony in 2014, the sun was shining and guests were mingling in the receiving line. I heard my name called and when I walked over, sure enough a ladybug had landed on her great Aunt's hand - just after they had talked about how much her Mother would have loved the ceremony. It sat there long enough for me to capture this, then gracefully flew away <3 

Katie & Gregory - Candlelight NYE wedding at PEI Brewing Company

Wedding date - Decemeber.31st, 2015

Katie & Greg often debate about how they met and who made the first move, but they both agree it was during high school and had something to do with basketball. Years later, a week after moving into their new home Greg proposed to Katie at the end of a scavenger hunt. 

It's been said Katie has had her wedding day planned since she was a little girl, and seeing everything come together on their wedding day it was no surprise. The PEI Brewing Company hosted their stunning candlelight wedding ceremony and reception, complete with florals by Prestige Floral and an archway built by Greg himself. It was a rare experience for me because the first time I saw Katie that day was when she walked down the isle. I actually gasped out loud as she was beaming with excitement and looked completely perfect! Greg had his trademark smile to match. 

Their wedding day was filled with great energy and happiness and was an absolute pleasure to be a part of as they are two of the nicest people you can meet. What a way to ring in the New Year!

I hope you all enjoy this wedding as much as I do! 

Number of guests - 145

MAKEUP - REBECCA POWERS, KISS & MAKEUP

HAIR - MARY COLORIS

Dress - Perfect Pear Bridal

Bridesmaid dresses - Chester & Felicity

Groomsmen suits - Roots cardigans & Moores

Cake/Cupcakes - City View Bakehouse

Decor - Unique Events Decor

Wedding Planner - Simplicity Wedding & Event Coordination

Florals - Prestige Floral Studio Weddings

Officiant - Valerie Downe

Invitations - Julie Hanan Design Ltd. 

DJ - MUSIC EXPRESS

Ceremony musicians - Olivia Roberts & Pierce Clark

photography - brady mccloskey photography

2015 Favorites

From East Point to North Cape, from Belfast to Cape Egmont, from PEI to New Brunswick, 2015 has taken me far and wide capturing the moments that matter to you. I sincerely cannot thank each and every client enough for putting their trust in me this year. It's been an honor capturing every wedding, family, couple, commercial job, and everything else in between. 

Each year I sift through every session to choose my personal favorite shots to share. For many different reasons these shots are just a few of the ones that stick with me. I hope you enjoy this collection and I cannot wait to see what 2016's will bring. 

Enjoy,

Caroline & TJ - Cliffside Wedding in Cascumpec, PEI

Wedding date - August.28th, 2015

Every time I travel "West" for a wedding, it always ends up being such a fun day filled with the most friendly and fun loving people. TJ & Caroline's day was no exception - including a party bus, oyster bar, and a cliffside ceremony. TJ and his groomsmen even arrived at the ceremony in a pontoon boat, how fun is that?

Caroline & TJ have been together for years and their friendship and love for each other was obvious on their wedding day. I love to see couples who are best friends, and that was the case for these two. Congratulations to the new Mrs & Mr Campbell! 

Reception venue - The Loyalist Country Inn

Transportation - Ultimate Limo Bus 

Photography - Brady McCloskey Photography

Erin & Nick - Patio Wedding at The Shipyard

Wedding date - September.4th, 2015

I love the story of Erin & Nick. They dated when they were younger, parted ways, and both moved off of PEI to pursue their careers. Years later, they both moved back to the Island around the same time, got in touch, and reconnected. The rest as they say was history and in September of this year they tied the knot :)

Their fun loving, caring, & energetic attitudes carried them through their wedding day, enjoying every minute. They put full trust in their photo and video teams and the results were fantastic. After a breezy, warm, & sunny afternoon of photos they stood on the patio at The Shipyard to say their vows as the sun started to set. It was my absolute pleasure to spend this day with them, and I hope you love this wedding and these photos as much as I do.

Enjoy,

Decor - Unique Event Decor

Florals - Prestige Floral Studio

Videography - Lowell Productions

Venue - The Shipyard

Marriage Officiant - Weddings PEI by Diana

Holly & Steven - East Point Lighthouse wedding

Wedding date - July 25th, 2015

With the prayer beads hung on the line and the outdoor ceremony already set up, we all hoped for a day without rain for Holly & Steven. At the time of their wedding day Holly & Steven were living right beside East Point Lighthouse on a beautiful property overlooking the ocean. They chose this location for their outdoor ceremony and ended up with the perfect day. The sky was moody and blue which made for a striking contrast between the red cliffs and green grass of East Point. 

One of the things that struck me about this pair was their love for their daughter Taylor and how they incorporated her into all aspects of their engagement session, and their wedding day. It wasn't just a couple we were photographing starting their married lives, it was the three of them together, as one. Family was an especially important part of their day and it was an honor to photograph those moments.

Congratulations Holly & Steven! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness.

Megan & Travis - Rodd Brudenell River Resort Wedding

Wedding date - August.29th, 2015 

Oh, what a day!

Megan & Travis met a few years ago through a mutual friend during their university days in Halifax. Travis, from Ontario was living with one of Megan's friends from PEI, and their first encounter came when she visited their house one day. After she left Travis asked his roommate who that amazing girl was, and the rest was history....

Megan & Travis wed on a sunny, mild day in August with an outdoor ceremony at the Rodd Brudenell River Resort, with all photos taken beforehand. They both got ready with friends and family, headed outside for their first look, and casually took photos while walking around the beautiful, riverside property. Before leaving Megan & Travis that evening I told them they had the most amazing attitude towards their wedding day that made it exactly everything it should have been. They were giddy, laughing, crying, and and above all, having FUN - the most important thing. Their love and excitement was contagious and they clearly had their best day ever. I'm so happy I was able to capture it.

Venue - Rodd Brudenell River Resort

Coordination - Simplicity PEI

Officiant - Brenda Bulger

Videography - My Moving Memories

Photography - Brady McCloskey Photography

Len & Brent - Oceanside cavendish wedding

Wedding date - august 13th, 2015

On their first trip to PEI together, the first place Len & Brent visited after checking into their cottage was the rocks at Cavendish Beach. That evening they took a walk on the path, headed down to the rocks, and enjoyed the views of beautiful Prince Edward Island. That trip was the first of countless times over the years that they would visit Len's home province together, visiting family and taking a break from city life in Vancouver.

After many years together they decided the timing was right and quietly got married on a Thursday afternoon this past Summer. For their ceremony location they thought of no better place to say their handwritten vows than returning to the same spot they had visited that evening15 years ago, the rocks at Cavendish Beach. 

Capturing the love of Len & Brent was one of the most memorable days I've ever had as a photographer. Their excitement, nervousness, and joy to be getting married was so special to see and throughout the entire day all of us could clearly see what a strong bond they had together. What an opportunity it was to capture such a wonderful day. 

Enjoy,

Officiant - Dianna Lariviere

Videographer - Serious Media

Christi & Rob - Floral Inspired Summerside Wedding

Wedding date - July.4th, 2015

In the Summer of 2006, a Newfoundland guy and a PEI girl both moved to Calgary, and after 6 years out West they ended up connecting on eHarmony and in the words of Christi - clicked instantly. A couple years later during a trip to PEI, Rob proposed on the beach and that's what brought us to July.4th, 2015 in Summerside. 

Christi & Rob are the type of people you instantly connect with, trust, and simply want to be around. Their love for their friends, family, and each other drew me in and made me feel as if I had known them years. They were just so happy to be marrying each other and it was such an exciting thing to see. 

Some of you may know Christi's brother Michael who is a partner at Prestige Floral Studio in Summerside, the one behind some of the most beautiful wedding florals I've seen over the years. Christi chose her bridesmaids dresses and stationary, and let her brother handle the rest. Her only request was to incorporate trees, a reminder of her Father who had passed. You'll see from these photos that he certainly achieved a beautiful look any sister would be happy about! 

Congratulations Christi & Rob - wishing you many years of happiness!

The Shipyard Market was decorated beautifully and as someone noted - "looked like the wedding of a celebrity!"

In one of our favorite moments, Christi's Mother was the one to catch the bouquet! 

Hair - Amanda jones

Makeup - Shangri La

Ceremony - Summerside Presbyterian Church

Reception - Shipyard Market 

Florals & Decor - Prestige Floral

Cake - Sweet Pea Creations

Stationary - Hunt + Gather Paperie

DJ - DJ DWX 

Photographer - Brady McCloskey Photography

Ellen & Kevin - Romantic Charlottetown Wedding

wedding date - July.11th, 2015.

Ellen & Kevin have been together since meeting at UPEI almost 9 years ago and they tied the knot this past July on a sunny, warm day in Charlottetown. Beforehand, Kevin proposed using a photo book he created and on each page was a different part in their lives together - trips, building a home, getting a dog, and so on. On the last page though was a photo of their dog Kobi with a sign that read "Ellen, will you marry me?" AH!!

On their wedding day they chose to do a first look, followed by all their photos, ceremony, and then ending with their reception at the PEI Brewing Company. They are so sweet, kind, and friendly, I was so happy to be involved in their day and get to meet so many of their close family and friends. I hope you all love the photos as much as I do! 

hair - bounce hair studio

makeup - Makeup by Aimee Barker

Wedding dress - Caseley's Bridal

Bridesmaids dresses - David's Bridal - Halifax

Suits - Moore's

Flowers - Flower Buds

ceremony - park royal church

reception/catering - PEI Brewing Company

Cupcakes - Lovely Day desserts

DJ - Dave Mane

photographer - brady mcCloskey PHotography

Kayla & Tyler - PEI wedding at Green Island Getaways

I'm so excited to share this wedding with you all! I met Kayla & Tyler last Fall for their engagement photos and knew right then and there their wedding was going to be fantastic. They are natural in front of the camera and we had so much fun photographing them throughout the day and night. 

These high school sweethearts got engaged during a hiking trip to Mt Washington in the Summer of 2014. This Summer they accomplished their dream of having a fun and relaxed outdoor wedding on PEI! 

Kayla & Tyler dodged the rain and held their outdoor ceremony on the lawn at Green Island Getaways, in Granville, PEI. Afterwards, we travelled to the PEI National Park for photos before returning to the rustic barn for their reception. Going through these photos I'm reminded of the way these two laugh and interact with each other, it's pretty easy to see how much they care for one another. 

Thank you Kayla & Tyler for inviting me to share in your beautiful day!

PS - To see the video of their wedding, click here!

number of Guests - 132

wedding dress - chester & felicity

bridesmaids dresses - the perfect pear Bridal

Hair - Whispers Hair design

makeup - aimee barker

Venue - green island getaways

flowers - Superstore & Flower Buds

Decor - Color Your Event

Caterer - Chef Jeff Stewart

Videography - Serious Media

Photography - Brady McCloskey Photography

50 Golden Years

I was recently invited to be a part of a very special day, Ethel & Gordon Vessey's 50th wedding anniversary celebration. Being a wedding photographer, I'm so fortunate to be able to share in the wedding day of so many incredible people every year. I often love to think about where these couples will be together in 5 years, 10 years, or even like Ethel & Gordon - 50 years. I mostly see the beginning of a couple's marriage life so it was a fun experience to photograph a couple 50 years in, still as happy and loving as the day they were married! 

Along with their family and friends, Ethel & Gordon packed the York Community Centre on a Sunday afternoon, mingling, sharing stories, and celebrating their golden anniversary. I was amazed at just how many things they had saved from their wedding after all these years - including their wedding day outfits, cake topper, and engagement photos.

It's funny to notice back then their engagement photos were taken separately, not together!

A receiving line allowed the couple to chat with and greet all their guests as they arrived. 

A steady stream of friends and family poured through the doors throughout the afternoon, often times lined up outside the door as they waited to greet Ethel & Gordon. 

Congratulations to Ethel & Gordon and to all of those who have reached this milestone. Here's to many more years together! 

Kristy & Lincoln - Spring Wedding in Summerside

After photographing Kristy as a bridesmaid in Bethany & Brad's June 2014 wedding, I was so excited to get an email asking me to be the photographer for her own wedding day May.16th, 2015! There were many fantastic vendors, small details, and friends & family that came together to make it a spectacular day. It was hard to believe that just two weeks before the wedding we were blasted by a freak snowfall! 

Their wedding day included many special touches including a first look with Kristy and her Dad, and a visit to Kristy's grandparent's home before the reception. Lincoln & Kristy are the type of couple who are surrounded by loving families who want nothing but the best for these newlyweds. It was a pleasure to be there for the day and experience the love these two have for each other. 

Thank you Kristy & Lincoln, and to all your family and friends. Congratulations!!

A first look with Dad. 

We couldn't forget their dog, Kimby who was in on the first look too! 

How about these colors?! Kristy is also the talented owner of Radiate Happiness Designs, and handmade her own necklace, as well as the bridesmaid's necklaces.

Kristy & Lincoln chose to have the majority of their photos taken before the ceremony, and then off they were to be married!

Although Kristy's grandparents were unable to make it to the ceremony, they dressed up in their best clothes and waited at home all day for the newlyweds to arrive. It was a very special touch to have them still included, and to hear their marriage advice after so many years together. 

Lincoln is a huge baseball fan so we fit in a quick trip to the baseball diamond before the reception! 

ceremony - St james roman catholic church

reception - shipyard weddings & events

hair - laura morgan

Makeup - Aimee barker

flowers - Prestige Floral

bridal jewelry - radiate happiness designs

Decor - Once Upon a wedding

cake - elaine lock

LIMO - ECLIPSE LIMO

photobooth - instabooth pei

BAND - SUNDAY PUNCH

videography - my moving memories

photography - brady mccloskey photography

tips for a Rainy wedding day

If you're like some couples, you've been checking and refreshing the long range weather forecast ever since your date popped up. You may be disappointed to see rain on the horizon, but with a little pre planning and a good attitude, the rain certainly won't spoil the fun. 

As a Prince Edward Island wedding photographer it is inevitable that I will experience a rainy wedding day at some point. I've photographed many before, and will likely photograph many in the future. However, there's a few things to think about that will make your day go much smoother if rain is on the way.

Of course, umbrellas! Umbrellas are an absolute must if the weather is looking wet. I've photographed many couples under the shelter of umbrellas and they help to keep hair and makeup in tact, and outfits clean and dry. You may want to consider purchasing enough for you and your wedding party so that in the event of light rain, everyone is still able to venture outside for photos. Make sure to keep your receipt so that you return them if you didn't end up using them. 

In many instances I'll photograph the bride and groom under the cover of their umbrella, and then have them drop it quickly for a few photos. This gives a mix of both views, and is quick enough to make sure no one gets too wet. Besides the wet ground, you may never know it was raining. 

Have a back up plan in place for your photos and an alternate location if your ceremony is outdoors. Being prepared for weather can help ease a lot of stress on your wedding day. By having a back up plan in case of rain, you don't have to scramble on the day of and take up time. I've photographed under the cover of verandas, in public buildings, and under heavy foliage. I've even rode along for a long, limo dance party. A professional photographer is trained to handle unexpected circumstances and work in difficult situations, so hiring one will be a big help when it comes to a rainy wedding day. 

Beforehand, consult with your hairstylist and makeup artist for tips on keeping yourself looking picture perfect despite rain and humidity. A professional will know different techniques to make sure your hair & makeup don't change throughout the day. I asked the talented Holly Ryder from Priti Makeup Artistry to give some tips for keeping your makeup in line on a rainy day. Holly says:

• Primer! It will help everything stay in place

• Waterproof eyeliner and mascara

• Choosing creamy products vs powders, ex. a cream blush & liquid foundation or tinted moisturizer instead of powder alternatives

• Good quality lipstick, it has better staying power than a gloss!

Thanks, Holly! 

Be flexible with your timing. If it is raining, chances are there will be a window of time at some point in the day where it stops completely, or it is only spitting/misting. Being able to do some photos before or after you originally planned can be a way to avoid the rainy parts of your day. If the weather is looking sour, consider options like a first look before your ceremony, or some photos after dinner. This gives you more than one opportunity for photos, and makes sure you don't just rely on one specific time. 

However, even on the worst of days you never know when the clouds may break and the sun starts to peak through! 

The most important thing - keep up a positive attitude. Your wedding day is what you make it. You can't control the weather, but you can control how you handle it. Above all, it's important to not let the rain spoil your day. Your shoes may get a little wet, you may not be able to get to locations you planned for, and you may need to adjust your timeline, but after all it's important to remember to have fun. So, take a breather and keep on smiling!

And if all else fails.....have a drink. 

Been caught on a rainy wedding day? What did you do to keep dry and have fun? Leave me a comment! 

2014 Favorites

A collection of some of my personal favorite photos from the 2014 year. For many different reasons these photos stuck out to me as memorable in some way, whether it be the client's expressions, the memory of that moment, or even the technical side of the photo. These photos also document many of the places I've traveled to and the people I've met along the way. Photography has allowed me to capture countless memories shared with so many individuals. From January 1st to December.31st, thank you to everyone who invited me to share these moments with you. 

I hope you enjoy these as much as I do! 

5 Quick Tips for your Engagement Session

Today, let's talk about engagement sessions! It's that time of year where many wedding couples are starting to think about their engagement sessions before their weddings this Summer and Fall. I love these sessions, and have photographed so many couples across PEI in many different locations. Here I wanted to share 5 little tips so you can make the most of your own photo shoot. 

The main reason I include a complimentary engagement session with every full day wedding collection is because it allows us to get to know each other and for the couple to become comfortable in front of the camera. A lot of my clients will show up feeling a little nervous and unsure what to expect at first, and I totally get that. For many, this is the first time they're being photographed by a professional apart from their high school or post secondary grad photos! They may be scared I'll ask them to do a bunch of crazy things, stand in awkward positions the whole time, or be generally uncomfortable. They quickly realize that's not the way it goes. Being photographed is much easier than expected, and quite enjoyable! The truth is, as a photographer my job is about 50% photography, and 50% knowing how to work with people.

You can take incredible photos but if you don't know how to make people feel comfortable, you're not going to achieve the look both you and your clients want. An engagement session introduces you to your photographer with a 'practice run' of sorts, letting you see first hand how they work. I've had many people tell me (even the guys!) how easy and fun their engagement session was and that's what I strive for. 

1. Before the shoot, I often let my clients choose the location so that we photograph somewhere unique and special to them. From baseball fields, to pumpkin patches, to beaches, and farms, I've been taken to many beautiful locations across PEI, all special in their own way. I recommend choosing a spot that has meaning to you such as a favorite spot to visit together, and old date location, or a family member's property. 

2. I encourage clients to add special touches to their session including one of my favorite things.....dogs! Bringing along your dog can help add a fun and light hearted dynamic to your session. Even if your dog runs around and is only in a couple photos, you may enjoy the familiarity of having your four legged friend there with you. Plus, they're a special part of your life so why not have them in your photographs too?

3. In addition to pets, some other objects can be fun to bring along such as handmade signs, a cozy blanket, sports equipment, paint, or balloons. Feel free to bring what you like, or nothing at all. If you do, just make sure to keep it simple and easy to carry. Either way, the photos will be beautiful! 

4. "So, what should I wear?" I get asked this question a lot. I always tell clients to simply wear what they know is going to make them feel comfortable and relaxed. I've had couples show up in everything from dresses and heels, to shorts and sandals - it all depends on what look you're going for, and where your session takes place. Consider bringing along a light sweater or different pieces of jewelry if you'd like a quick and easy outfit change. If you're having a hard time deciding, take a look through my Portrait section on my website for some examples of what others have worn.

5. Lastly, relax and have fun! No part of working with me or any photographer should be stressful. It's a great feeling to come away from a session with photos you're proud of, ones that you will print and hang on the wall for years. Feel free to think outside the box if you want to too. There are no rules, it's your hour to enjoy so have fun with it! 

If you've had engagement photos taken before, what was your favorite part? Any tips you'd like to add? Share them in the comments!

Brady