If you recall in a previous post, I shot Jill and Andrew’s engagement photos here. The next session I had with them was the night before their wedding where Andrew’s family was hosting a cookout for everyone. It was an afternoon filled with sun, food, fun and laughter. Both the Duling and Kunica families were very kind, sweet, and so very welcoming. I had a blast documenting the afternoon.

Below are some pictures from the event.

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In keeping the creative juices flowing, it’s important as a photographer to also shoot for yourself every once in a while. One of my favourite quotes in recent photography history has been “the best camera you can have is the camera that you have with you.” As more and more photographers get swept up in the “mega-pixel race”, this quote has become even more important. For those that know me, I can be a bit of a techno-file, getting excited about the latest and greatest technology. I have to remind myself that I can create great images with the equipment I already have. I know my wife would appreciate that last comment

So, for myself, this usually means that I try to get out once a week and shoot something that I want to shoot, not just what my clients are paying me to shoot. A lot of times, this means some rather extreme experimentation – with the results not really worthy of seeing the light of day. But it also means I get to see what works, and what doesn’t, on my own dime.

In the images below, I’ve taken the time to experiment with DoF (Depth of Field), perspective, self-portraiture, and Colour.

Please enjoy!

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