October in Wisconsin is a symphony of colors, a month where Mother Nature adorns herself with an ever-changing palette of fiery reds, deep oranges, and golden yellows. As a wedding photographer and videographer, I’ve always believed that there’s a particular magic to October weddings here: a blend of crisp air and warm hues that creates a backdrop unlike any other. Nestled in the heart of this picturesque state is La Crosse’s gem, the Waterfront.
This venue stands out for its captivating river views and the way the sun dances on the water, creating glistening patterns perfectly complemented by the trees lining the river, turning their shades and casting reflections. And it was against this enchanting canvas that Abby and Jordan chose to begin their forever.
I was the videographer for this wedding, filled with friends and family from near and far to witness and celebrate Abby and Jordan. There’s an intricate dance between stillness and movement, and being adept in both mediums allows for a truly immersive storytelling experience.
Photography is the art of freezing an instant. Each click of the shutter captures a fleeting emotion, a shared glance, or the subtle curve of a smile. These moments are immortalized, allowing us to relive them every time we glance at that picture. Photographs have the power to evoke emotions, transporting us back to the very instant they were taken.
On the other hand, videography is about letting moments unfold. It’s about capturing the laughter, the words, the music, and the ambiance. With video, you get to relive not just the moment but the entire emotion, like how Abby’s laughter bubbled up during her vows and the gentle swaying Jordan was doing with Abby in his arms during photos on the riverfront.
Being proficient in both realms has provided me with a unique perspective on celebrations. It’s like having the ability to both zoom in on the details and pan out to capture the broader narrative. While photos offer glimpses into singular moments, videos weave these moments into a seamless tale of love, joy, and celebration.
Additionally, understanding the nuances of both mediums allows for a more cohesive vision. Understanding how the lighting that flatters a photograph is totally different than the play of light in video and being able to anticipate moments in real-time are skills honed from wearing both hats. It’s about ensuring that no moment, whether static or dynamic, goes unnoticed.
From the very beginning, the video frames were filled with love. The moment when Abby’s mom sees her for the first time in her dress and the jubilant smiles of all her bridesmaids were such a moment! Guests arrived with grins, exchanged warm greetings, and shared fond memories. It was a testament to Abby and Jordan’s cherished place in so many hearts.
As the day progressed, the joy only intensified, but perhaps the reception stole the show. The dance floor became a melting pot of elation. Young and old, everyone danced with abandon, letting loose in the pure joy of the moment. Every twist, twirl, and jump was a testament to the day’s celebratory spirit. The sheer happiness radiated from everyone, creating an aura of positivity that was almost tangible.
In the quieter moments, the video revealed the depth of relationships. The way Abby’s father looked at her during their dance, the teasing camaraderie among friends, and the glasses lifted in celebration down to the hearty laughter all painted a picture of a community bound together by love.
Abby and Jordan’s wedding was not just about them; it was a celebration of all the relationships they had nurtured over the years. The video stands as a testament to a day when love was the victor when two people’s happiness became the happiness of a whole community. It was truly a celebration immersed in joy and unity.