Best of Wedding Photography 2011

January 1st, 2012

Happy New Year everyone ! This is my first blog for the year and I am reflecting on 2011 and looking forward to shooting lots of amazing images for my clients in 2012.  As a wedding photographer shooting most weekends of the year in Sydney and overseas, producing work at a continually high standard is one of the challenges we face. The best wedding photographers I know have a burning passion to create stunning images from the moment we arrive to see the bride to that final shot at the reception before we walk out the door – the continual pursuit of that perfect image. The greatest sensation is not admiring your own creative work or winning an industry award, it’s when your clients are speechless because you exceeded all their expectations and created timeless images they will love forever. I am posting my five favourite images of 2011 – it was certainly a difficult choice. Thanks for following and all the best for 2012.

I love it when things don't go exactly to plan and I could see this scenario evolving. Christina & Ronan were caught up in their own moment and let the wind play havoc with the veil resulting in a fun, quirky image.

I love it when things don't go exactly to plan and I could see this scenario evolving. Christina & Ronan were caught up in their own moment and let the wind play havoc with the veil resulting in a fun, quirky image.

I captured this image of Brooke in a rare moment when everyone had left her alone for her final preparations. She is fixing her hair but clearly her mind is somewhere else. She looks beautiful.

I captured this image of Brooke in a rare moment when everyone in the room had left her alone for her final preparations. She looks incredibly beautiful as she is fixing her hair.....but clearly her mind is somewhere else.

I took Louise & Ian for a walk through the buddhist temples on Koh Samui. In this intimate moment it seems as though the gold buddha is both blessing them and protecting them.

I took Louise & Ian for a walk through the buddhist temples on Koh Samui. In this intimate moment it seems as though the gold buddha is both blessing them and protecting them.

The stunning red dresses on the neutral wall was the perfect environment so shoot this quirky image that is all about the rythm - the legs, flowers and champagne glasses

The stunning red dresses on the neutral wall was the perfect environment so shoot this quirky image that is all about the rythm - the legs, flowers and champagne glasses.

The Rocks is a fantastic place for wedding photographers to shoot. In saying that, there was still a lot to do to create this beautiful shot. I asked Yemee to walk up to David and unleash her passion on him, just as the leant in to him for the kiss a gust of wind swept the veil along the red wall.

The Rocks is a fantastic place for wedding photographers to shoot. In saying that, there was still a lot to do to create this beautiful shot. I asked Yemee to walk up to David and unleash her passion on him, just as she leant in to him for the kiss a gust of wind swept the veil along the red wall.

Red is for Passion

December 31st, 2011

I had the pleasure of photographing Elaine & Wik’s wedding at Manly Golf Club in December. As well as being two very lovely and passionate people, their wedding was perfectly organised by Elaine, which really helps the photography on the day. As usual MGC’s dining room was exceptionally styled by the staff and the bridesmaid’s dresses were a striking red which matched the mood between the couple. The speeches were very emotional for guests and staff alike and the dance floor sizzled when Elaine & Wik took their first dance.

Elaine's bridal bouquet is exquisite

Elaine's bridal bouquet is exquisite

Final preps before leaving for the ceremony

Final preps before leaving for the ceremony

The bridal party having fun on the barbourside photo shoot

The bridal party having fun on the barbourside photo shoot

The red theme was a striking design element for the big day

The red theme was a striking design element for the big day - stunning bridesmaid's dresses

No lack of chemistry between the couple

No lack of chemistry between the couple

Love theme to the reception decorations

Love theme to the reception decorations

Destination Weddings

November 8th, 2011

Destination Weddings – Less Money … More Extravagance

Destination weddings can equal more extravagance with less stress and quite often, a destination wedding is far less expensive than a traditional wedding at home. Resorts specialised in weddings are expert in making the event as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. There are certain things you will probably want to take with you, though such as: wedding clothes, and your destination wedding photographer.

When planning for a destination wedding, using a wedding planner can help save time and stress when dealing with resorts overseas. But one thing you should consider is that it’s wise to arrange for your own wedding photographer. Just like you don’t want to leave it to chance that you’ll find the perfect bridal gown at your destination, the wedding photos are vitally important so many couples arrange for their own wedding photographer while leaving many other aspects of the planning to the resort they’ve chosen to stay at.

While the resort you stay at may take care of many of the details, bringing a photographer that you’ve taken the time to choose and that you’ve taken the time to express your wishes to can make a big difference in the quality of your wedding pictures.  The difference between average and extraordinary photos lies in who you choose to take those photos. And because you generally won’t have the same number of guests with you to share the experience, having great photos to bring home to share is even more important.

The Sheraton in Denarau offers stylish destination weddings in FIji

The Sheraton in Denarau offers stylish destination weddings in FIji

Destination Wedding Photo Packages

Some wedding photographers charge extra for destination weddings.  Some charge their regular rate and then have the couple pay for lodgings and expenses. Not only does the photographer get to explore new landscapes, which are a photographer’s dream, but they get to truly capture the essence of the couple getting married due to spending time with them in a relaxed atmosphere so many expert professional photographers are more than happy to fly to your destination wedding location with you and help you capture memories that will last forever.

If you’re looking for a destination wedding photographer, consider checking the portfolio of Kristjan Porm, a successful professional Sydney wedding photographer.

Shangri La wedding, Fiji

July 21st, 2011

Louise and Chris were kind enough to ask me to shoot their wedding at the Shangri La Resort in Fiji. After a few days of rain the weather was warm, steamy and delivered a beautiful sunset.  The photo shoot was made even more authentic when we traveled to a local village for the bride & groom to meet the local chief. The staff at the Shangri La were exceptionally attentive and the buffet dinner lived up to all expectations. Destination wedding photography is a real pleasure when your clients look after you like one of the guests.

Louise & Chris wander through the palm trees

Louise & Chris wander through the palm trees

The lawn next to the chapel is a great place for group shots

The lawn next to the chapel is a great place for group shots

The local choir congratulate the couple

The local choir congratulate the couple

The beautiful setting of the Shangri La chapel grounds

The beautiful setting of the Shangri La chapel grounds

The local village was an authentic backdrop for our photo shoot

The local village was an authentic backdrop for our photo shoot

Quiet moments and a Fiji sunset

Quiet moments and a Fiji sunset

Hunter Vallery Weddings

June 4th, 2011

Hunter Valley Weddings: Find Great Venues and Get Gorgeous Photos

Interested in getting some info about Hunter Valley weddings so that you can choose the perfect venue for your big day?  There are a number of Hunter Valley venues that are picture perfect for your wedding as well as the pre-wedding festivities. The majestic views of the region are the perfect backdrop for wedding photography, too.

Gorgeous views of the Hunter Valley

Gorgeous views of the Hunter Valley

Working with wedding planners and wedding photographers in the Hunter Valley with expertise in doing weddings in this region helps you plan a day you’ll be thrilled with. Wedding photographers with experience doing real weddings in the Hunter Valley area will help create a wedding album that’s the perfect combination of memories and the beauty of this area.

Your Hunter Valley wedding planner and photographer are professionals that can provide detailed information to help you select the perfect top class wedding venues for memorable wedding pictures that are steeped in history and can help you plan Hunter Valley gardens photo sessions that capture the essence of the region’s beauty. Many people who have had their wedding here explored the area on their own before the big day and choose to have photos done before and after the event.

Hunter Valley garden photos for your invitation or engagement announcement can set the tone for your event. Photographing in the vines near Bistro Molines is perfect as a backdrop to the Hunter region and you might also consider planning a daily wine tour to explore the region before you choose your reception venue.

Northern Beaches Weddings

May 14th, 2011

People choosing to have their weddings on Northern Beaches are spoilt for choice when it comes to ceremony locations, superb wedding venues and quality wedding industry suppliers. The peninsula incorporates a huge area, stretching from The Spit all the way to Palm Beach and there are just so many wedding photography locations from which to choose. On the harbourside of Manly, Manly Pavilion will soon offer a spacious venue with some of the best food Sydney has to offer. Many Wine Suites offers exceptional ocean views in modern chic atmosphere, and is a very popular choice for peninsula brides. Manly Golf Club is steeped in history with grand reception rooms and even their own private chapel. Heading north to Whale Beach, Jonah’s is one of Sydney’s most sort after wedding venue’s and it’s not hard to see why. Their reputation for exceptional food and service is matched only by the stunning ocean views, and they are part of the prestigious Relaix & Chateau hotels group.

The Pacific Ocean offers a fantastic back drop

The Pacific Ocean offers a fantastic back drop

Shelley Beach is always a favourite with couples

Shelley Beach is always a favourite with couples

Even as the light fades there are excellent possibilities for photography

Even as the light fades there are excellent possibilities for photography

Manly Pavilion's historic buildings offer excellent backgrounds

Manly Pavilion's historic buildings offer excellent backgrounds

The views at Jonah's take your breath away

The view at Jonah's takes your breath away

Manly Gold Club's dining room is exceptionally stylish

Manly Golf Club's dining room is always exceptionally styled

Greek Othorthodox Wedding

May 14th, 2011

Greek weddings in Sydney are fascinating to shoot. The family plays such a big part in the day and inevitably the photos are full of emotion and fun. Maria & Brad were married at a traditional Greek Church in Sydney, followed by a casual photo shoot in Hyde Park, more formal photography at Jones Bay Wharf and finally a stylish reception at Astral Restaurant above Star City. Throughout the day Maria & Brad were relaxed and took everything in their stride. Maria’s wedding gown was absolutely stunning and was complimented by the brideamaids dresses perfectly. Naturally, the evening included lots of Greek dancing which is always really fun to be on the middle of taking pictures.

Maria's wedding flowers were a stunning creation

Maria's wedding flowers were a stunning creation

The girls had a little trouble with the veil

The girls had a little trouble with the veil

I love the design and inticacies of the Gree Orthodox churches

I love the design and intricacies of the Greek Orthodox churches

A shower of flower petals greets the new couple

A shower of flower petals greet the new couple

Jones Bay Wharf is a great setting for modern wedding photography

Jones Bay Wharf is a great setting for modern wedding photography

Interesting photo props at the beautiful Astral Restaurant

Interesting photo props at the beautiful Astral Restaurant

Astral Dining did a great job with the decorations

Astral Dining did a great job with the decorations

The couple looking handsome during the Hyde Park shoot

The couple looking handsome during the Hyde Park shoot

Shelley Beach Wedding

May 12th, 2011

Shelley Beach near Manly is one of the best places in Sydney for an intimate beach wedding. The beach is nicely protected from all the elements and also has an exceptional wedding venue in Le Kiosk situated right on the sand with amazing views of the ocean. Diana & Philipp’s beach wedding ceremony was interupted briefly by rain, but then we were blessed with beautiful blue skies. The families of the bride and groom had arrived from Switzerland for a memorable Sydney wedding and were very impressed with the food and service at Le Kiosk.

The girls looking gorgeous before the ceremony

The girls looking gorgeous before the ceremony

Beautiful views so close to the water

Beautiful views so close to the ocean

The bridal had fun on the sand during our shoot

The bridal party had fun on the beach during our shoot

Nicely styled by Le Kiosk

Nicely styled by Le Kiosk

Walking back up the aisle

Walking back up the aisle, just married

The bridal party have fun on the sand

The bridal party have fun on the sand

Fiji Weddings

May 10th, 2011

Fiji would have to be my favourite place to travel to for a Destination Wedding. The people are so incredibly friendly and life seems at such an easy pace there, it is impossible not to relax. There are so many options for Fiji weddings but it is a great idea to incorporate a wedding planner who has the knowledge of the country and the options for a wedding in a resort or a local church. Beach weddings are really popular although my clients Lauren & John were married at the Intercontinental Hotel in the beautiful little chapel. The slightly overcast skies gave us very dramatic photography on the beach.

The bride and bridesmaids look stunning in the tropical setting

The bride and bridesmaids look stunning in the tropical setting

Leaving the chapel to flower petals and traditional music

Leaving the chapel to flower petals and traditional music

Dramatic skies made a beautiful backdrop

Dramatic skies made a beautiful backdrop

Nice work by the team at the Intercontiental

Nice work by the team at the Intercontiental

Private moments away from the guests

Private moments away from the guests

Wedding Albums

May 9th, 2011

Traditional or Modern Wedding Albums?

When you spend a lot of money on professional wedding portraits, you want to have pictures you’re proud to display and you want to display them beautifully. There are some great choices in modern wedding albums and layout styles to choose from. Whether you’re having a traditional wedding or something more modern, you can have your portraits taken and then displayed in a way that you want.

Many brides spend hours looking through website galleries with pictures of wedding portraits and layouts to get ideas for their own wedding album. That’s one of the benefits of living in the information age. You can shop for both your wedding photographer and have great ideas for your photos well in advance of the big day.

Digital magazine style albums allow more possibilities for creativity

Digital magazine style albums allow more possibilities for creativity

Many traditional wedding album styles have slipped into yesteryear. Not long ago, there was a popular custom that involved placing photos in albums covered in white satin with lace and ribbons.  While these were pretty to look at right after the wedding, they’re not exactly easy to keep looking gorgeous. When you have an album full of your wedding day memories, you want to be able to share them without damaging the photos or the album and you want to know that the album is going to work well at preserving your prized photographs for the future. Digital magazine style albums are the most popular choice for wedding albums in this day and age.

Pictures do last a long time but have you seen old photos that turn yellow and fade? By preserving your portraits carefully, they’ll be beautiful and crisp-looking for many years to come and you’ll probably have copies of the pictures on disc so that you can make additional copies as and when you need them.Modern Wedding Albums

Today, there are gorgeous design options available for putting your wedding album together. Some of your portraits might be in colour, some in black and white, and some in sepia. Some are done and professionally polished to look like photojournalism portraits that could easily fit into a magazine.

When choosing your wedding photographer, it’s important to review their portfolio to see if they offer the style you’re looking for. Most professionals have a signature style that they’re proud to display but they should be adaptable so that the can take and display your photos in a way that you want, whether it’s modern, traditional, or a unique style all your own.

Digital wedding albums allow for more creativity

Clean classic design allows the photos to be the focus

Today’s technology makes it very easy for you to see your photos before they’re printed and make changes if everything isn’t absolutely perfect. You can have an array of different photos for your home, for your Thank You cards, and for your wedding album and you can even set up an online gallery to share those photos with your friends and loved ones.

Album design services that provide traditional or modern wedding albums are often a service offered by professional wedding photographers. Instead of simply having your pictures given to you in an envelope, they can be prepared in a way that allows you to proudly share and display them while also knowing that they are going to be preserved so that they can be shown to your grandchildren and continue to look as gorgeous as they do when you first have them delivered to you.

If you’re looking for a wedding photographer that can help you put together a beautiful modern wedding album, contact professional Sydney wedding photographer Kristjan Porm.