Compliments of the Season

It's been a few weeks since the last post which has been mainly due to us focussing on so many other things and getting ready for the new season. It has also been a time to recharge the batteries after a fantastic 2007. We were away over Christmas to our regular Christmas get away in Kinlochard near Stirling, (Rob Roy Country), which was really awesome at this time of year. I was really geared up to taking some lovely landscape shots but actually enjoyed the walks without the camera this time round, much to the delight of the dogs. Here is one snap that I managed to get of the Loch though just as the sun was trying to get through the clouds on Christmas Eve.

May we also take this opportunity to wish all our clients and friends a very prosperous and happy 2008.

Stefan and Charmaine

The Wedding of Francesca and David

From last week in Lanarkshire and this week in Stirling, we are certainly getting to see Scotland and understand its history and heritage, great for us South African’s who don’t have many castles back home.

David and Francesa’s wedding at Stirling Castle was really special and celebrated both the Christian and Jewish faith. Pastor Scott had some great words as his wedding talk and focussed on marriage and learning to compromise, although it was clear that in marriage the husband ends up doing most of that (Stefan, you’ll understand).

David looked very dapper, with his tails and yamulkah and all the ushers were especially helpful when trying to sort out some great shots. The church was spectacular inside and with soloist Catriona Scott, everything was perfect in time for the bride to arrive.

Francesca arrived shortly, led in by her bridesmaids and on the arm of her Dad and she looked radiant, like a forest princess in gold to the sounds of Catriona’s angelic voice and the hairs on my neck stood up. I suddenly had tears in my eyes and was hoping that I wasn’t messing up the pictures in this very emotional moment – thank goodness they came out better than ever, even if I do say so myself.
After the ceremony, all the group shots were taken and very shortly thereafter whilst the guests made their way to the reception we were left with Francesca and David on their own for their portrait shots. The day was gorgeous and with the church in the background and the colours of autumn around and on the ground, this was certainly the most perfect setting for such a young and gorgeous couple.

We were absolutely delighted with how well the couple took direction for the photographs and how they helped us make the best use of what I can only describe as a most surreal background. Francesca and David, you did such a fine job and it’s clearly evident in the pictures that we took. It looks like you’re in a movie!!!! Thank-you both and we trust you are enjoying Italy……see you when you get back.

The Wedding of Ann Marie and Jason

Arriving at the venue of Ann Marie and Jason’s wedding we were totally bowled over at how breath-taking it was. Chatelherault is a restored hunting set in 500 acre country park with superb views north to Ben Lomond. It has around 10 miles of footpath in historic landscape and Avon River gorge including ancient oaks and extensive semi-natural woodland and is a sight to see.

Jason arrived well in time and shortly thereafter Ann Marie arrived with her brother on arm to take up her nuptials. Ann Marie looked like a princess with gold in her hair and a almost antique looking dress that suited her beautifully and the look on Jason’s face as she walked down the aisle said it all. The vows were beautiful and a short verse on marriage was ready by Ann Marie’s sister, Fiona.

Unfortunately Ann Marie’s mum was unable to make the day but we make a quick trip past the hospital to visit her and she was totally overwhelmed to see Ann Marie and to be given the bridal bouquet. This was first for us as photographers but we were only too glad to see Ann Marie and her mom together – what a beautiful and memorable moment. We hope your mom loved the flowers, Ann Marie. From there it was off to Inn on the Loch for lunch and then off to the evening event to party the night away.

And watching both Ann Marie and Jason dancing together, it was evident that they truly love one another and couldn’t take their eyes off each other. It was great to see and we trust they are having a ball on your honeymoon in the East for 5 weeks – no work for 5 weeks, we are jealous. All the best to you both and a safe trip!

The Wedding of Belinda and John

The 29th of September dawned an overcast and grey day but not long after the sun came streaming through just in time to see Belinda walk down the aisle, a gorgeous vision in gold. With two stunning bridesmaids dressed in versions of Reese Wetherspoon’s red carpet dress on either side, the trio looked beautiful as they walked down the aisle.The beautiful Kirk of Calder hosted the union of Belinda and John – the present site of the church around having been around since 1150. Originally the The Abbot of Dunfermline controlled the church and appointed the vicar so lot's of history surrounding this background. From the church the bridal party and all the guests moved onto the Pumpherston Golf Club for the reception and what a elegant and lavish affair. All the details in gold were delightfully hand crafted and placed on the tables and for a special touch pictures of John and Belinda of their years growing up which was great to see. Not that either had changed very much…..

The meal was just like home-made with choices of steak pie or chicken with compliments to the chef. We wolfed down the food it was so good. And then onto the evening festivities with disco lights, the first dance and everyone joining in to dance the night away. Belinda and John, we wish you and your family much happiness now that you have tied the knot.

The Wedding of Kasey and Ryan

Kasey and Ryan’s wedding day dawned bright and beautiful with the sun shining through the blue skies. What a way to start one of the happiest days of your life.
Stefan and I packed up our photographic equipment and drove through to Fauldhouse bright and early on the 7th September in order to catch Kasey getting her hair and make-up done.

We were welcomed at Kasey’s gran's house where champagne was in full flow and Kasey was getting her hair done in curls. We managed to catch a few great shots of the girls getting ready and were quite chuffed to be the first to see Kasey’s wedding dress upstairs.

And what a sight it was to behold – beautiful crystal beaded bodice and full bodied skirt which we realised would make for some stunning pictures. Nothing like taking pictures of a bride looking like a princess and Kasey did not disappoint.

Luckily for us, Ryan, who usually doesn’t like getting his picture taken, was in full swing and he did a fine job posing for us. We knew you had it in you, Ryan and we managed to click away merrily catching some great moments of the guys in their kilts overall.

From the arrival at the church to having their pictures taken, both Kasey and Ryan were and ideal pair to deal with and we had some fun posing them for some breathtaking shots. We were especially pleased to see how photogenic the couple were which certainly made our job easier and we were able to capture some artistic shots down at the bridge at Polkemmet Country Park.

Then we were off to the reception at Fauldhouse Miners and once again, Kasey outdid herself – the venue was decorated in a charming and stylish way and we were giving a full 3 course meal which made us feel very much part of the family. What a great family too, everyone was so concerned that we were having a good time and we were only the photographers. Thank you to Kasey and Ryan for making us feel so welcome – we had the very best time and were talking about your wedding for weeks after.

The Wedding of Karen and James

August, the 10th started out as any other day in Scotland, grey, dull and miserable. We were a little stressed to say the least as Karen and James had chosen a stunning venue to celebrate their big day and with the weather being erratic we weren’t sure what to expect.

We were keeping our fingers crossed that the rain would let up and woe and behold after leaving Karen’s family home, the weather took a turn for the better. Slowly the skies dried up and the sun started peeping through.

From Kilcaldy taking pictures of the bride and her immediate family back across the bridge, we celebrated James and Karen’s wedding at Orrocco Pier in South Queensferry. A venue that allows for the most creative and stunning pictures with both bridges across the Firth of Forth serving as the backdrop.

Everything at Karen’s house was calm and everyone was very relaxed and the 4 page boys in their kilts were eager to pose for the camera, pulling some really “interesting faces”.

At the venue James was ready well in advance and enjoyed the time chatting to family and friends as he waited for his bride to arrive. Karen arrived shortly looking radiant in her beautiful ivory shade dress with silver detail and walked down the red carpeted aisle with a huge grin on her face.

As photographers we had a field day capturing images with the bridges in the back and with the sun shining down we had a great amount of fun taking photo’s of James and Karen on the beach. We had a good laugh and James especially enjoyed the “posing”.

It was a great day and ever thing ran according to plan from the start of the day to the cutting of the cake and the great dancing that followed. The band was superb and everyone was out in full swing jiving to the beat. We loved every minute of it – thanks to Mr and Mrs Sutherland for allowing us to share such a great and memorable day.

Moments with Angels

Today was one of those life changing moments.....I had the wonderful opportunity to do some child portraiture with true professionals. And who says the "wee ones" can't pose like real models. Leila, Kalaih, Chloe and Kyla were angels and made my job so easy. I had a ball and realise that taking pics like this is so rewarding. Patience is all it takes and you can capture such real and innocent shots. I love these, not sure what you think but it was a great experience for me.

The Wedding of Kristiina and Eric

Stefan and I jumped out of bed after having watched the weather forecast and realising that for one day at least, Scotland was going to have a good one. And it never disappointed – a beautiful warm summer’s day dawned and we couldn’t wait to get started.

We made our way up to Crieff, such a scenic drive and arrived 10:30 sharp to catch Kristiina getting ready. Kristiina did not disappoint even posing whilst getting her dress tied and always with a smile. Her elegance was so easy to capture and I had a field day getting those ultimate shots.
Stefan, on the other hand, rushed across to the Crieff Hydro to get the “boys” in action and had great fun getting them to pose. From standing looking smug outside the main reception to being pushed on the luggage trolley, there were smiles all round. The chaps looked dapper indeed.
A short drive away and by 12:30 we were at the church ready and waiting. The sun continued to shine and by the time the bride arrived, our camera lenses were well posed.

The ceremony went on without a hitch and pictures were taken in the grounds of the church and shortly thereafter we made our way up to Loch Turret past the Famous Grouse experience to capture Eric and Kristiina on their own. And what an unforgettable experience!

We had so much fun and Kristiina was a real trouper climbing over the fence in her beautiful gown, but we got those stunning shots that had been requested and lots more. From champagne squirting all over the place (I think both Eric and Kristiina were dripping in it) when the cork popped to chasing a nearby car that had stalled, we have never laughed so much.

From there it was back to the Famous Grouse for the reception but we decided to take a few of those last minute shots on the bridge and Kristiina ended up losing a heel in the process and watching it float down the river. But she never lost her composure and laughed through it all. You’d swear we are amateurs at this rate!!!

It was perfect and we can only say to both Kristiina and Eric – you guys were amazing. Your smiles never faded throughout the day and you both made this such an amazing experience for us. Kristiina, you were such an adventurous bride for which we were so grateful as we captured truly memorable images. Thank-you!

The Wedding of Tracy and Brian

There really is no better job in the world than being able to capture the special day of a very special couple. Brian and Tracy could not have chosen a more wonderful, sunny May day for their wedding in Kircaldy. Tracy looked absolutely stunning in her dress, which made the equally dapper Brian very proud. After the ceremony we had a chance to run around the Memorial Gardens for some photos and were the subject of some serious horn blowing from the passing motorists. The entire wedding party were great sports making the best of the lovely gardens. Then it was off to the reception for an evening of family, friends and festivity. It was a fab day folks and we loved being part of it.

The Wedding Of Sharon and Rob Coles

Guthrie Castle served as the background for Sharon and Rob’s wedding on the
19th April.This beautiful private residence that has opened its doors to guests over the past few years has the most beautiful surroundings - from the secret garden, surrounding greens of the golf course, the quaint cottages spotted in the grounds and the James Bond Aston Martin parked out front, it was the perfect setting for such a glamorous and elegant affair.

The day began unusually with not the groom worrying about when the bride may arrive but instead it was the bride who was kept waiting as the groom was running late but all for good reason…... Rob had spent the time not taking ages to get ready but rather being roped into having to press everyone’s shirts. Unlucky Rob although he did a fab job – Sharon can always hire him out for ironing services!!!

Rob and Sharon were the epitome of elegance and the joy shared with their loved ones was evident throughout the day. In particular was the touching and memorable ceremony when they shared their vows, which certainly added to the romance of the day.

Sharon looked like a movie star with a designer gown and the most beautiful train that flowed gently behind her. From petals being gently thrown as she entered the garden to reaching the altar where Rob was waiting looking very dapper and filled with pride, everything about this day had a sense of style about it and with many touching moments this was certainly a wedding to remember.

To entertain the younger guests, everyone joined in playing croquet with Sharon’s daughter Samantha having the most fun trying to work out creative ways of hitting the ball. We captured a few fun shots of that!!!!

Besides one moment of pure panic when there was a frantic search for the schedule, the event was seamless and everyone had a good visit to Scotland to celebrate this awesome day. Sharon and Rob, it was an honour to share this happy event with you and your family.

The Wedding of Trish and Mike Carlisle

What a fantastic weekend we just had, not only was it gloriously hot but we also attended and captured the wedding of Trish and Mike. The only word that can describe their special day is "Awesome". The handsome couple looked dashing in the combinations of subtle shades of gold, which really complimented the summer colours of the day.

The service was held at the Viewfield Church in Stirling which stood proud against the rich blue sky of the historic city.

The reception was held at the amazing Kilbryde Castle in Dumblane, which provided manicured gardens and a glorious feast that was enjoyed by all.

It was a truly wondeful day and an honour to be part of the union of Trish and Mike.

We wish you a lifetime of love and memories guys.

Stefan and Charmaine

The Wedding of Clair and Toby Morton

Morning broke on the 25th of Feb and when I looked outside at the weather, the skies were grey and grumpy. However in the distance was a little glimmer of blue sky, it was then that I knew it was going to be a glorious day. Charmaine and I jumped into action and left for the Bride and Grooms getting ready locations. Clair and Toby were filled with excitement for the big day ahead, which made our jobs a pleasure. Not to mention the fantastic wedding party that surrounded them that were more than willing to give us their best poses and smiles.

After a lesson in the "Zoolander" pose, I made my way from Toby's house to the Kingdom Halls to prepare for the arrival of the Bride. After the lovely ceremony filled with both laughter and tears of joy we made our way to the Houstoun House Hotel for the reception.

After braving the brief spells of rain for some photos, the wedding party joined the guests for the champagne reception before heading off to a glorious reception dinner and an evening of some "serious" dance moves.

We had a great day and loved sharing it with you folks. I especially liked the fact that I got the whole group to shout Arsenal during the big group shot!! or maybe I was the only one shouting and everyone else was saying something that I can't repeat:). Nonetheless may you both have a lifetime of happiness and joy..

Stefan and Charmaine

Clair and Toby's Engagement Session

With Spring only a matter of weeks away and the wedding season close on it's heels, love is most definately in the air. We recently spent an afternoon with Clair and Toby for an engagement shoot at Linlithgow Loch. The local dog walkers must have thought that the much in love couple were movie stars by the way that we were running after them with our cameras:) Very Paparazzi!!

We managed to capture some lovely images on the day and have just shared the big day with Clair and Toby on the 25th of Feb. Watch this space for the images!!

Thanks to you both for introducing us to The Four Mary's, we had a great time at the briefing and will most definately be going there again.