A while back I had the great pleasure of being able to take part in a special photo shoot along with some great area wedding vendors including Rachel, the brains behind the great Apple Brides Blog. The shoot took place at one of Spokane’s truly unique wedding/reception venues, Barrister Winery. It’s a special bit of big city modern in our own little burgh. I fell in love with it instantly when I shot Joanna & Andrew’s reception there last year. If you’ve never been there, you should definitely make the trip.

As a photographer, a good understanding of using your flash creatively is helpful since one of it’s attributes is the dark ambience. All of these shots have some amount of flash in them except for the first one (and it’s black & white brother near the end of the post), the close ups of the bride which were shot near the sole window while the beautiful natural light shone on us (there was a reflector though), and the flowers on the paint palette. The last photo even used a strong flash since the light outside was fading & I really wanted a strong silhouette photo.

Unlike some editorial shoots where models are hired, Erica & Tyler are actually engaged. To even add another level of realness, Tyler is an employee at the winery. He gives a great tour of the place, by the way. Thanks to Shane Savage for his help in assisting during the shoot.

Fun with shutter speeds.

I love this portrait.

The power of a tilt/shift lens.

Flash blast.

Flowers: Angela Austin, Floral Design and Home Decor

Make-up: Shasta Hankins Freelance Make-up

Hair: Lindsey Wilson (509-362-6510) of the K Salon

Stationery: Carli Marie Design

Gowns: Storybook Bridal

Headpieces/Accessories: Finder’s Keepers

Tuxedo: Tuxedo Gallery