Tom had a vision. It included photographs in the dark, which initially I explained was problematic. He could choose grain and unpredictable shadows or he could choose flash which is abrasive and confusing when you’re walking down a path and your love has suddenly fallen on his knee and then there are bright lights and one begins to think, “Is this the second coming?” or “Am I having a seizure?” or they just have a seizure because flashing lights.

The man knew his way around a camera though and armed with that knowledge chose grain and unpredictable shadows as an art form. We both embraced the “Yes.” and trusting eachother’s judgements and capabilities, we moved forward with the project. What transpired next was 12 hours of hilarious texts that included but were not limited to Bitmojis and ninja gifs in preparation for the big moment. His final text read “t-minus 5″ Mine included a lonely photo of the mustachioed man on one knee to no one (for light testing purposes) and outlined exactly how Tom was to set the stage.

All that was left was the moment to unfold. Brittany and Tom were pure magic – all light and joy. It was an honor to be apart of their giddy wonder and gorgeous symmetry. Some photographers find themselves in the snow bluffs of the Kazakstan patiently waiting for the allusive snow leopard. I find myself in a pile of leave in New Hope waiting for the impending engaged couple. It suits me well.

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It’s the stuff dreams are made of; twisted dreams. Dreams that make you ponder what the hell just happened in your brain at 3:00a.m., but inevitably leave a smirk on your face, amazed at what the mind is capable of conjuring up when left to its own devices. Rachel and Adam’s wedding was like that.

From the moment I met them, I crossed my fingers that they would pick me to be on team Rachel and Adam’s Circus Steampunk wedding. When they did, I was reverent in the honor to bear witness and to capture the farthest borders of their imaginations.

If you want to see more of their big day (and believe me, you really, really do) check out their gallery.

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The post Kristen Kidd Photography on Offbeat Bride appeared first on Lux Summit Studio.

JD is owner of the Manayunk novelty shop, Johnny Destructo’s Hero Complex (If you have not been, go!). He’s seen in the background of this image wearing a suit. Suits are not generally comic shop attire, but on this particular day he happened to be getting married. He chose his shop as his location to get ready due to its close proximity to their venue, Manayunk Brewing Company.

It was a warm day and given adrenaline and emotions, it gets pretty damn hot putting on a suit. So JD opened the door to the shop a bit, but left his “sorry we’re closed” sign up. As he quaffed his hair, snugged his tie and tied his bright red converse, in walks a patron. JD greeted him warmly as he adjusted his collar, inquiring about how the man was doing today. The man reciprocated and JD offered, “I’m good. I’m actually getting married today… in thirty minutes. So, we’re not open right now.” Despite offering this information, JD also kindly asked if there was anything specific he could help him find. The patron kept his eyes locked on the shelves of items and admitted that that was exciting… but do you have the newest edition of…? What followed was a 15 minute transaction in which JD, in his wedding day attire, assisted this new patron with finding just the right comic and discussing all the ins and outs and what have yous that two mutual comic fiends could possibly want to discuss in 15 minutes.

After ringing him up and sending the happy patron on his way, JD had just as enough time to make it to his wedding. Lesson? If you own a business on main street and plan to get ready for your wedding there, close the door and bring a fan. Or just be prepared to work on your wedding day and kindly greet customers, just like JD did. It’s a very specific lesson, I know.

If you’d like to see more of JD and Su-Shan’s outstanding wedding (Seriously, that wedding dress, though) check it out here: http://kristenkiddphoto.photoshelter.com/gallery/JD-Su-Shan/G0000DwsM0fLbTAk/C0000o7IduwUVW4U

If you’re like to see more of Kristen Kidd Photography weddings, then check me out here: http://vendors.offbeatbride.com/listing/kristen-kidd-photography

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The post Wedding Recap appeared first on Lux Summit Studio.

A few weeks ago I participated in my favorite bridal event; Brides Against Breast Cancer. I don’t generally work bridal expos or shows. It’s not my scene. Most of my wonderful couples comes from word of mouth and by putting my face out there in other, creative ways (Check out some of those beautiful couples here.). However, Brides Against Breast Cancer has a special place in my heart.

I know what you’re thinking, “Is there nothing that is not somehow connected to the breast cancer cause?” and probably, “Sure, but does the cause actually support responsible charities combating breast cancer or is this a vague, ‘Raise awareness about cancer’ sort of thing?”

Brides Against Breast Cancer is a traveling wedding dress boutique experience. Previous brides show up to donate their gowns. They receive a receipt for their tax deductions. The dress is processed and added to the already extensive and gorgeous spectrum of gowns. Brides to be pay $20 to attend a VIP, evening full of munchies and beverages, complete with a DJ, vendors and, of course, first pick of the gowns. Other brides opt for a second day visit to the show for a meager $5, but still have access to all the gowns (that had not found their beautiful bride the previous night).

All of the money goes toward local organizations that directly aid individuals and their families affected by breast cancer. The organizations change from city to city and year to year. Their causes are very worthy. The money from the gown purchases, ticket sales and even vendor participation fee, all go toward the participating charities.

At May’s event I took my camera along so that you can get a feel for the energy and excitement that goes into every event. I chose to shoot abstractly as to prevent the brides from being fully seen in their gowns (unless the brides gave consent to be photographed in her dress).

The charisma is tangible as brides, coupled with the “oohs” and “ahhs” of their friends and family, try on dress after dress. Joy cascades down every seam line and enthusiasm erupts each time a bride arrives at her final selection. It’s an honor to be ushered into the boudoir – into the intimate moment when a bride finds the most important dress she will ever wear and equally so, it is an honor to be a part of such a meaningful event.

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The post appeared first on Lux Summit Studio.

I had the honor of not only witnessing, but having a place at her side as my best friend Andy Beth married her Hawaiian Lion, Byron. Of course, it was a challenge for me to set the camera aside every now and again, but I truly did relish and permeate through the wedding atmosphere with a lightness and joy in my position as maid of honor.

The scene for this beautiful, sunny day was set in Andy’s sister’s back yard in the bohemian, southern town of Asheville, North Carolina. It was attended by a handful of guests that literally encircled the couple as they repeated their vows.

As I captioned these photos I really felt that besides a short caption they simply spoke for themselves. As you click on each image you can feel the intimacy and love. I need say no more than what the photos already say.

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The post appeared first on Lux Summit Studio.