I have especially been looking forward to Naomi and Jen’s wedding, because it meant not one, but two new experiences for me as a wedding photographer. Not only was this my first same-sex wedding, believe it or not, it was also my first Jewish wedding!

I have to say, while I have spent some time wondering how this wedding would be “different” from all of my others — even mildly stressing about it, haha. — it was surprisingly the same! From the minute I saw Jen’s reaction to Naomi in their wedding garb — a super emotional hug — I could tell this couple was very in love and that this wedding would be very much like all of my others… it certainly didn’t hurt that both Naomi and Jen are super-sweet, easy going, and were 100-percent understanding with regard to my lack of experience shooting this type of wedding . If there was ever a point in their day where I “said the wrong thing,” they made sure I was none the wiser about it. Again, I can’t say enough what selfless and kind people they are. I’m so glad I could give something back with these photos!

The first of our couple/bridal party photos were at Nay Aug Park, and this time I actually managed to direct the driver to the closer parking lot… score!

It was raining during our scheduled photo time and we only got to use the treehouse before one of the brides had to use the bathroom, and instead of making the couple wear what Naomi referred to as their “potty faces” in photos, haha, we decided to just finish up our photo time back at the hotel. I have actually been studying some GQ-style posing recently, so that combined with some dramatic lighting and adequate setup time made for quite possibly my favorite bridal party shot to date!

To make their marriage official, Naomi and Jen did a Ketubah signing just prior to the ceremony.

The reception went from endearing to fun to fun-ny, and having booked a somewhat shorter package, I know Naomi was a little stressed about getting all of the shots she wanted in before I was schedule to leave. Apparently she told this to Jen during dinner, who later came up to me pointing out that Naomi had told her she wanted more group shots, but now all she wanted to do was DANCE and she couldn’t get her back, ha! I hated to pull Naomi away from such a great time, but I’m sure she’ll thank Jen and I later!

To Naomi and Jen: I really just want to say one more very personal thing, and that is that I have always been of the mindset that why should anyone else care who anyone else wants to love? In the words of Massimo from The Wedding Planner, “Love is just love,” and having the privilege to be part of your wedding only confirms that thinking even more. Seeing how you interact with each other, how you look at each other, and how you care for each other, I am hopeful many more states will follow in New York’s example and make the very special event that you had on Sunday possible for every other couple just like you. I can’t thank you enough for having me be part of your day. I hope you enjoy the photos and I wish you all the best with your new little family!