Debora and Grant were married at The Grotto, a beautiful 62 acre Catholic Shrine and botanical garden, this past Saturday. It was my first time to visit the Grotto and within minutes of walking into this sanctuary, I was struck by the serenity and meditative atmosphere of this well known Portland landmark.
The Grotto is a remarkable place. The alter is in front of a 150 foot rock cliff. There is an elevator that takes you to the top of the cliff where there are beautiful gardens and reflection pools. What strikes you is the calm and peace. This sanctuary resides just minutes outside the city of Portland, within the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. A perfect setting for Debora and Grant who possess a simple grace and elegance.
Grant’s mother blowing bubbles after the ceremony. Graced with southern charm, Grant’s family were some of the most genuine people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting in quite some time.
I love this image. It represents being “in the moment” when your heart, soul and mind all come together. Conjuring the moment, being open to the magic of the present, relying on intuition and years of fine-tuning skills to the point of fluid reaction. Grant asked me if this was going into my portfolio and I replied that “every wedding goes into my portfolio”. Honestly, I challenge myself to share images from every wedding that I shoot. To make myself vulnerable every week. You’re only as good as your last shoot. I try to do my best work every time I pick up my camera. This keeps me focused and intuitive to the moment.
When I used to print in the darkroom, there was a magic that occurred when the image would come up in the developer for the first time. No matter how finely crafted your skills are, there is a magic that happens when you see “the moment” for the first time, removed from the day. It’s nice to know that even with digital, the magic still happens.
Best wishes to Debora and Grant; their friends and family. I felt that I was a part of your family for the few hours that I was allowed to share with all of you. Thanks to James, the best man for the Jagermesiter and Red Bull that I shared at the end of the evening. It was truly an honor and pleasure to be a part of this special day.
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