THE HAMLIN WEDDING AT THE RITZ CARLTON SOLARIUM IN ST. LOUIS, MO
When it comes to wedding photography, there’s a growing trend that moves away from the traditional posed shots towards a more candid and authentic style. This style focuses on capturing the real emotions and genuine moments of the day as they naturally unfold. Recently, I had the privilege of photographing a stunning wedding at The Ritz-Carlton Solarium, and the experience was nothing short of magical. When first talking to Hannah about what she envisioned for the day, she wanted to genuinely enjoy her day. Focus more on personal interactions, less on the posed photos. I knew that we were going to be a perfect match the second that we hoped on the phone. Closer to the day, we talked about timing for the day. We both decided that we wanted things to flow naturally and made a timeline that left plenty of room for conversation and freedom. When it came to their bridal portraits together, it was very important to the two of them that they were able to attend cocktail hour and spend time with their people. Since they were not doing a first look, we decided that 10 minutes was plenty of time to get some more formal photos and the photos turned out absolutely stunning! The rest of the night was history, lots of dancing and partying until the end of the night <3
The Setting: The Ritz-Carlton Solarium
The Ritz-Carlton is synonymous with luxury, elegance, and impeccable service. The Solarium, with its expansive windows and lush greenery, offers a unique blend of indoor comfort and outdoor charm. The natural light that floods the space provides the perfect setting for documentary-style photography, highlighting the beauty of the surroundings and the joy of the occasion.
The Approach: Documentary Wedding Photography
Documentary wedding photography is all about storytelling. Rather than directing the couple and their guests to pose for photos, the photographer becomes an unobtrusive observer, capturing the moments as they happen. This approach creates a visual narrative that reflects the true essence of the wedding day.
At the wedding at The Ritz-Carlton Solarium, I focused on several key elements to ensure that the photos were both beautiful and meaningful:
- Candid Moments: From the bride’s nervous excitement as she got ready to the groom’s emotional reaction during the first look, capturing these unposed moments is what documentary photography is all about. These images convey the raw, unfiltered emotions of the day.
- Details: The intricate details of the wedding often go unnoticed, but they play a crucial role in telling the story. The delicate lace of the bride’s gown, the carefully arranged floral centerpieces, and the personalized wedding favors all add depth to the photographic narrative.
- Guest Interactions: The interactions between the couple and their guests are a treasure trove of candid moments. Laughter, tears, hugs, and handshakes – these interactions are the heartbeat of the wedding day. Capturing these connections helps to create a rich, emotional tapestry of the event.
- Environment: The Solarium itself is a character in the story. The light filtering through the windows, the shadows cast by the greenery, and the overall ambiance of the space add a layer of beauty and context to the photos.
The Results: A Timeless Collection
The final collection of photos from the wedding at The Ritz-Carlton Solarium was a beautiful blend of candid moments, detailed shots, and environmental captures. The couple was thrilled with how the photos turned out, appreciating how the images told the story of their day in a way that felt genuine and heartfelt.
One standout image was a shot of the bride and groom sharing a quiet moment together in the Solarium. The soft light highlighted their features, and their expressions were filled with love and contentment. This photo, like many others from the day, encapsulated the essence of documentary wedding photography: capturing love in its most authentic form.
Why Choose Documentary Wedding Photography?
Choosing documentary wedding photography means opting for a style that prioritizes real moments over staged ones. It’s about embracing the imperfections and unpredictability of the day, knowing that these elements often lead to the most beautiful and memorable photos. For couples getting married at a venue as exquisite as The Ritz-Carlton Solarium, this style of photography ensures that the splendor of the setting and the genuine emotions of the day are preserved in a timeless and elegant manner.
Documentary wedding photography at The Ritz-Carlton Solarium is a perfect match. The luxurious setting, combined with a style that focuses on capturing real moments, results in a wedding album that feels both grand and intimately personal. For couples looking to remember their special day in the most authentic way possible, this approach offers a beautiful and meaningful solution.
If you’re planning a wedding and considering documentary photography, remember that it’s all about trust. Trust your photographer to capture the essence of your day, and you’ll be rewarded with a collection of photos that truly reflect the joy, love, and beauty of your wedding celebration.
