Blackburn Portrait Design

Category: Weddings Photography

Wedding Photography–What’s It Really All About? | Saratoga Wedding Photography

This was captured immediately after the ceremony. Can you tell how delighted they are to be married?

Wedding Photography–what’s it really all about? One of the things I love about Wedding Photography is that I get to wear many photography hats on a Wedding Day. I get to be a Commercial Photographer for the detail shots and the venue shots. I get to be a Fashion Photographer for the Bride and Groom pictures. I get to be a Family Portrait Artist for the Family Groups. And I get to be a Photojournalist for the candid images. Not bad for one day’s work.

Family Groups should be properly lit and posed. Everyone is dressed up and looks good–take advantage of it and make some great portraits of your family!

But really, what is it all about? For me, a wedding day is all about two people joining their lives and their families to create brand new family. Therefore, that is the most important thing to document. If at the end of the day I have not done that, then I have not done my job correctly–doesn’t matter how many slamming detail photographs I make.

The large group photo features everyone who was in attendance that day–small party, but lots of love.

The Father Daughter Dance–if you get 100 details pictures, but don’t have these, what kind of story do you tell?

Now don’t get me wrong–I love to get an awesome picture of the shoes or the cake. But if the only reason you are hiring me or another photographer is because you liked the shoe picture they did that was featured on some wedding blog, or from a friend’s wedding, I would suggest that is the wrong reason to hire a photographer. This will probably get me in a lot of trouble for saying this, but hire someone who understands what is really important on the Wedding Day. Hire someone who will tell that story from the correct vantage point. The details are an important part of the story, but they are just that–a part. Document the love you have for each other and your families. Families are what matter.

Interested in our Destination Wedding Photography Services? Please call 518.584.4237 to speak about your event in detail. Check out our FAQs for Hiring a Wedding Photographer as well.

October 3, 2013
Can You See the Light? | Adventures in Lighting at Weddings | Saratoga Wedding Photographer

Adventures in Lighting at Weddings | Saratoga Wedding Photographer

Today I wanted to just talk about some different lighting techniques that as a wedding photographer I like to have in my little bag of tricks. Sometimes as a Saratoga Wedding Photographer, I find myself in some different or tricky lighting situations at weddings. I am really happy that I have some different kinds of lighting techniques at my disposal that make my job easier while making my wedding clients happy. I am still in the process of editing the weddings I used here to illustrate my point, so stay tuned for the longer blog posts!

Natural Light During the Day

Emily and Mark had a First Look before their wedding at Franklin Plaza in Troy.

Because Emily and Mark chose to do a First Look and see each other before their ceremony, we got to use beautiful available light in open shade. I love the architecture of the Franklin Plaza, which is an old bank.

Sunset Silhouettes with Natural Light

Sunset on the roof–very romantic.

When we got back from the ceremony, the sun was starting to go down. We were lucky to capture this photograph on the rooftop using available light. We were just in time–the sun is creating a starburst between them. A big thank you to Dominick of the Franklin Plaza for helping us get up to the roof in time–having helpful staff at the catering facility goes a long way in making my job easier.

Off Camera Strobe Indoors

The Vault at the Franklin Plaza is unique to the location, so I wanted to be sure to include it for Emily and Mark.

We then took the elevator down to the main level where there is a Vault. Here we needed off camera lighting. I used a main light to light their faces as well as a tiny light to define the door in back of them. Finally, I decided to convert the image to black and white because it reminds me of an Old Hollywood film still.

Off Camera Strobe Outdoors

Here we are outside again. I like to do some night shots if at all possible for the variety it gives couples in their wedding photos.

We decided to go outdoors during the reception to do some night shots. Again, we have employed off camera lighting to give a three dimensional look and light Emily properly. I love how sassy Emily looks here.

Same Weekend, Different Wedding–Outdoors Natural Light

Same weekend, different wedding.

This was the next day up at the Inn at Erlowest. Again, the bride and groom chose to do a First Look. We were in open shade and were able to achieve great light without adding any flash.

This was right after the ceremony and I don’t think they even knew I was photographing them. Available light once again. I love the way the light is gently rimming Britta’s shoulders. Gives me chills.

Night Shot With Off Camera Lighting

These are both on the terrace at night, right before it began to rain buckets. I love the blue of the sky. Off camera light. And I love the way the lantern on the post provides a little kicker.

Britta and Nate are just too cute.

As you can see, different situations call for different lighting at weddings. Again, I really do think variety is very important in Wedding Photography. I am so happy I have been able to take classes and learn how to implement some of these lighting techniques in my photography and give my clients some unique wedding photographs.

Interested in viewing more wedding images? Be sure to visit our Wedding Photography Portfolio.

September 28, 2013
Dan and Yulia’s Wedding Day at The State Room | Albany NY Wedding Photos

Dan and Yulia’s Wedding Day at The State Room In Albany NY

I love this picture we created in Crandall Park. The wind was blowing the veil just enough.

As Upstate NY Wedding Photographers, we meet many diverse and interesting people. You may remember Dan and Yulia from their Engagement Session Blog post. I photographed their wedding this summer and got to witness the marriage of two cultures: American and Russian. Yulia is originally from Russia and Dan is from Upstate NY. I loved the pictures from their day, but here are some of my favorites.

1. How did you feel when you put on your dress Yulia? I loved my wedding dress and when I put it on I felt pretty and happy.

Yulia looked like a princess. And I really loved the emerald green shoes.

Yulia’s father came from Russia for the event, so it was very special.

2. What was the best moment of the day? To me, the best moment of the day was saying “I do” in the church as the whole day was about Dan and I celebrating and deepening our relationship.

Yulia and Dan got married in Dan’s family’s church in Glens Falls, NY.

The men wore kilts and Dan’s dad played the bagpipes.

Dan’s nephews were an important part of the event.

I love this photo of Yulia arriving at the church in the car from the State Room.

3. What made you choose your venues? We originally were looking at buying tents and having the reception Dan’s Father’s property in Lake George. The logistics would have been too much for us. We found the State Room, and they pretty much had everything in one place, and we loved the venue.

4. What was the funniest thing that happened? I am not sure about the funniest, because the whole day was a whirlwind and went by sooo fast! I felt like I was swept up from my ordinary life into this fairy tale–with the man of my dreams.

Loved the topiary as centerpiece idea–very eco-friendly.

The State Room has a great ballroom for a First Dance.

5. What is next for you as a couple? Next as a couple is me finishing my Grad degree, and possibly moving to Portland, OR as we both loved the place and its laid back, extremely green and outdoorsy way of life.

Night photography is always fun and exciting.

Best Wishes to Yulia and Dan! Have many happy adventures together!

Venue and Catering by | The State Room, Albany, NY

Upstate NY Wedding Photographers | Blackburn Portrait Design

September 22, 2013
Timing Is Everything In Wedding Photography

Wedding Day Timelines

Timing is everything.

We have all heard this golden oldie many times. Nowhere is it more applicable than with Weddings, and Wedding Photography in particular. As Saratoga Springs Wedding Photographers, we have worked on numerous events where timing has either been fabulous or–well, not so fabulous. If you are stressed out, it will most definitely show in your wedding pictures. The following are some tips to help ensure that your wedding day runs smoothly and you capture all the important photos you want while staying stress-free.

Cassie looks so happy and relaxed because she not only scheduled enough preparation time, she had a First Look as well.

1. Allow yourself a “buffer” or some extra time. Katie O’Malley, the Wedding Maven behind Katie O Weddings and Events, advises her brides to schedule an extra 30 minutes before the ceremony or first look in case things are running behind with the preparations. This way, if things run behind, you do not need to stress out about it. You can simply take a deep breath and enjoy your day.

Dan and Yulia made sure to schedule in enough time to go the Crandall Park in Glens Falls after their ceremony to do some Wedding Photographs.

2. When planning how long it will take to travel to different locations, be sure to factor in time of day, as well as the season. For example, August in Saratoga at around 6 PM is a traffic nightmare. A destination that normally would take five minutes can take upwards of 15 minutes. Nothing is worse than sitting in a traffic jam while watching the clock tick. Again, allowing for a little extra time will help you maintain your serenity.

Getting on the Northway at rush hour.

3. Another tip from Katie O–find out what time the sun will set during the initial planning stages. Most wedding couples want at least some of their wedding photographs taken outdoors. The absolute best time for this is approximately an hour before sunset. Photographers call this the “Golden Hour.” The sun is lower in the sky and is more flattering than harsh high noon sun. It is also really nice to capture a sunset. If you plan your event properly around this time, you will be able to capture some really beautiful photographs without feeling frantic and rushed.

This photograph of Kim and John was made during the “Golden Hour”–the hour before the sun sets. The light is so nice.

4. If you really want outdoor wedding photographs and you are planning a wedding between September and May during the evening, seriously consider having a First Look. Yes, this is when the couple sees each other prior to the ceremony–Gasp! More and more couples are opting to do this because not only will it ensure getting all the pictures before the ceremony, it also takes away from some of the jitters at the altar.

Molly and Fritz did a First Look for their November Wedding because the ceremony started at 5 PM and outdoor pictures were important to them.

5. If you want to take lots of formal family photographs, make sure your family members know where and when this will be taking place. Nothing holds up the process of creating family photographs like MIA family members. We seriously recommend that you not only compile a list of people/groups but put someone in charge of corralling them. Your photographer is not going to know your Aunt from California or whether your second cousin is missing. And again, allow a little buffer of time here so you can relax and not worry about whether or not you will be introduced at the reception on time.

Hopefully, these tips are helpful in planning a stress-free day. Taking the time to properly plan your Timeline will help ensure a happy and relaxed Wedding Day.

Check out our FAQs for helpful information when choosing a Professional Photographer for your wedding day.

September 18, 2013
Saratoga Wedding Photographer: Sneak Peek from Michelle and Tim’s Wedding/Birch Hill Wedding

Here is a sneak peek from Michelle and Tim’s wedding at Birch Hill in Schodack back in August.

The day was truly perfect: comfortable temperature, no rain, no humidity, and blue skies. And most importantly, two people who were really in love and ready to make a life long commitment to each other. I will definitely blog more about this couple later, but here are a few photographs for now.

You may remember Michelle and Tim from their Engagement Session Blog Post:)

One of the unique things about Birch Hill is that they keep peacocks on the grounds. We found this feather while walking around.

I like to use black and white for the preparation shots. I think it enhances the emotions and mood of the photos.

I thought it was very sweet how Tim’s dad helped him get his tie on.

I also like to do some of the formal portraits in black and white–it is so timeless and classic.

I love this black and white of Michelle before the ceremony.

Michelle at Ambiance Florals and Events did
an amazing job creating flowers that looked like a meadow.

This is when Tim and Michelle exited the Loudonville Community Church after the ceremony. I love the way he is looking at Michelle.

Birch Hill also has amazing willow trees on the property.

The Conservatory at Birch Hill is very unique and photographs extremely well.

If you enjoyed this post, you might like to visit our Wedding Gallery to view more Saratoga Wedding Photos.

Hope you have enjoyed these wedding photos by Saratoga Wedding Photographer Susan Blackburn of Blackburn Portrait Design.

August 12, 2013
Dan and Yulia’s Adirondack Engagement | Lake George Wedding Photographer

Dan and Yulia’s Adirondack Engagement Session | Lake George Wedding Photographer

Lake George is an absolutely stunning location for an Engagement Session.

Loved the spot by the birch tree–the light was perfect.

This past month, I got to photograph an Engagement Session for my Wedding Photography Clients Yulia and Dan. We did the session up at Dan’s Family’s property on Lake George. We chose to do the photos outdoors because both Dan and Yulia love Lake George, as well as hiking and spending time on the water. Their dog, Loki, a Siberian Husky, joined us as well. One of the reasons I love to photograph my clients before the wedding is that it gives us a little bit of quiet time without the chaos of the wedding to get to know one another.

I really enjoyed working at this property. There were so many unique locations.

I asked Dan to give me the scoop on how he proposed. I like the story because he put a lot of thought into the proposal.

The day was very quiet and peaceful.

“I chose Mount Noonmark this as it was one of our first hikes when we started dating . The trail head to Mount Noonmark is right outside of Keene, NY. The mountain is centrally located smack dab in between the Great Range, the Dix Range, and Giant Mountain and a few scattered high peaks as well. It is an absolutely breathtaking view. So I thought it would be a beautiful place to propose.

“As we started up, I think the fog was so thick it was actually condensing in my nose and mouth as we climbed up. and the higher we got the less and less we saw. However, once in awhile as we were walking through this colorless cloud, it would break for a few moments and we would be immersed with colors of the super green moss, brown bark and endless exposed granitic gneiss.

I liked the rustic look of the buildings on the property.

“Backtracking a bit, earlier in the summer we had climbed Wright Peak and Algonquin Mountain with my sister, Laura. At the trail head there were mounds of rocks to bring up the the top to create cairns (smaller mounds of rocks to distinguish the trail). Well, unbeknownst to me, Yulia had put four of these rocks in my pack, which I proceeded to bring up to the summits…and back down. They currently are used as book ends.

“So at the top of Noonmark, the time came and I said “Hey, check out this rock I found.” With Yulia rolling her
eyes thinking I was busting on her for making me carry 35 lbs of rocks again, she looked down and saw another kind of rock. Smiles and tears and laughs followed, as well as a nice Pad Thai lunch with tea and coffee on the camp stove, and we hiked out of the clouds together.”

I love the part about hiking out of the clouds together–sounds like a movie. Can’t wait to photograph their wedding later on this summer!

Interested in becoming a client? Please use our Contact Form or call (518)584-4237 to schedule a consultation. You might also like this post on Engagement Session Planning.

Susan Blackburn is a Lake George Wedding Photographer who loves photographing Engagement Sessions in the Adirondacks.

July 2, 2013
It is All About the Details//Vintage Wedding Trends//Saratoga Wedding Photography

The brooch on this wedding bouquet really was different and almost Victorian.

Wedding Photography often gives me the opportunity to see up close what the current trends are, in Weddings and just fashion in general. The last couple of years, there has been a trend toward vintage, which I really, really love. I have always loved older items, and it is really nice to see them incorporated in a wedding–so fun to photograph them too! Vintage trends can be incorporated in almost any wedding in a variety of ways.

Love the vintage brooch pinned to the back of this wedding gown.

From the invitations, to the dress, the flowers, even the cakes–it is fun to throw in these details. It is also “green” and eco-friendly if you are recycling older items. Finally, they can have a lot of personal meaning if they were used by other family members or friends in the past. Stationary can be a fun way to incorporate a little individuality.

It had actually snowed a little the day before this wedding.

Sometimes you can use an older item from a friend or relative to make your attire look a little more vintage and/or personal. One of my favorite items the past year were fur stoles from the 1950s–they really look very elegant and convey a feeling of glamour. It is also nice to wear an item from a friend or relative for sentimental reasons.

The fur stole Taryn is wearing here belonged to her grandmother–and was very warm on a really chilly day.

I loved this wedding veil because it was the veil the bride’s mother wore to her own wedding.

Vintage cars are a really awesome prop for a wedding!

Another vintage car–love the Ray Bans!

Certain places can lend themselves very well to vintage themes. Victorian mansions or rustic barns are just a few places that can accommodate a vintage wedding theme nicely.

The Mansion Inn is a Victorian style Bed and Breakfast in Saratoga that fits nicely with a vintage themed wedding.

Footwear and jewelry will also help you stylize a vintage theme for a wedding. Many of my couples have actually purchased vintage rings from an antique store and had them sized to fit correctly.

The man’s Movado watch is a vintage item.

Here the bride used her grandmother’s ivory beaded little purse along with a vintage styled bracelet.

Although these shoes were purchased new, the buckles on the front make them look vintage.

A big vintage trend right now is the Old Hollywood look. It is inspired by the Hollywood stars of the 30s, 40s, and 50s. Think Joan Crawford, Lana Turner, Elizabeth Taylor, and Sophia Loren. All of them had a very distinct, elegant look that brides want to replicate right now.

Here is a look styled by Make Me Fabulous for a photo shoot we did depicting the Old Hollywood look. The hair and makeup is very stylized, but really elegant.

Here Kristen has a Veronica Lake styled hairdo, reminiscent of the 40s.

Certain flowers can also be used to carry forward a vintage theme.

Here Ambiance Florals used a crescent shaped bouquet with gardenias for a bouquet that looked like something from the 1950s. The little string of pearls was fabulous.

Let’s not forget the food–especially the cake.

This particular cake seemed very reminiscent to me of the 1950s with its buttercream frosting, and the silver dragee accents and fresh roses decorating the cake.

This chocolate cake was decadent.

Regardless of whether you want just a few accents or to do the entire wedding this way, a vintage theme can be really fun to coordinate. And the best part is you do not need to spend a lot of money to incorporate some of these fun details. Resources: Stationary: The Pink Orange Hair and Makeup: Make Me Fabulous Antique Car: Tom at The State Room Floral Design: Ambiance Florals Venues: The Inn at Erowest, Lake George The Hilton Garden Inn, Troy The Mansion Inn, Rock City Falls The Hall of Springs, Saratoga Springs Dresses: Lily Saratoga Danielle’s Bridal

Susan Blackburn is a Wedding Photographer living and working in Saratoga Springs NY. Susan serves clients in Saratoga Springs, Lake George, the Adirondack Region and beyond.

July 1, 2013
Dan and Yulia’s Adirondack Session Sneak Peek | Saratoga Springs Wedding Photographer

A Sneak Peek of Yulia and Dan’s Adirondack Engagement Session

I loved using the canoe and the old icehouse

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Lake George in the Adirondacks is so lovely for Engagement Sessions! I am super excited to share some photos from my wedding photography clients Dan and Yulia’s Engagement Photo Session on beautiful Lake George in the Adirondacks. The property has been in Dan’s family for quite some time, so it was very special to photograph them there. Their dog, Loki, joined us for a few pictures:)

I can’t wait to photograph their wedding this summer in Albany at the State Room!

Are you looking to do interesting and unique Engagement or Wedding Photos? We would love to work with you! Use our Contact Form to get in touch or call 518.584.4237 to schedule a consultation!

Susan Blackburn of Blackburn Portrait Design is a Wedding and Portrait Photographer offering Photography services in Saratoga Springs, Lake George, the Adirondack Region and destinations worldwide.

June 12, 2013
Take Me Out to the Ballgame | Emily and Mark’s Saratoga Engagement Session

Emily and Mark’s Softball Themed Engagement Session:

Here is a teaser from the Engagement Session I photographed for my Wedding Clients Mark and Emily over the weekend. A longer post will follow, but I loved this picture because it is so them. They are totally into softball and met playing the game. I am really looking forward to photographing their wedding next September!

Take me out to the ball game:)

If you are this cute, I would love to photograph your Engagement Session. Please use our contact form or call 518.584.4237 to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Thinking of hiring a Wedding Photographer in the Saratoga Springs, NY area? You might find our FAQs for Hiring a Wedding Photographer helpful.

Susan Blackburn of Blackburn Portrait Design is a Wedding and Portrait Photographer offering Photography services in Saratoga Springs, Lake George, the Adirondack Region and destinations worldwide.

June 10, 2013
Lake George Wedding Photographer | Jackie and Nate’s the Inn at Erlowest Wedding Photos

Rainy Day Inn at Erlowest Wedding Photos

As promised, here is a blog about Jackie and Nate’s wedding on Lake George at the Inn at Erlowest on Memorial Day weekend. I had photographed Jackie’s sister Stephanie’s wedding a few years ago, so I was really excited to work with their family again–they are a lot of fun and know how to have a good time. I loved how close knit everyone was at this wedding. The weather was cold and rainy, but everyone had a great time and we got some stunning pictures.

Both Jackie and Nate are Glens Falls natives and met in Middle School. They began dating in high school and continued to date through College and Law School.

How did Nate propose to you?

Nate proposed to me at our home just last year. It was only the two of us and our dog, Wilkie. Right after he proposed he took me out to what I thought was a dinner for my birthday. It turned out to be a surprise big party for me. The best part was then surprising all of our family and friends at the party with our engagement.

What was your vision for your wedding day?

We wanted our Wedding to be a love-filled, romantic celebration that was warm and inviting for everyone.

What is your favorite memory of the day?

We would both say it was during the ceremony at the altar.

What made you choose the venues you used?

We chose St. Mary’s because it is my family’s Church. It didn’t hurt that it is beautiful as well. We chose Erlowest for our reception because we love Lake George and spend nearly every weekend of the summer out on the Lake. Erlowest is gorgeous and you cannot beat the terrace overlooking Lake George.

Did you enjoy your reception? What was the best part?

5. We had an amazing time at the reception. It was incredible to have all of our family and friends in one place for such a joyful occasion.

What is next for you as a couple?

Right now we are enjoying being married and looking forward to a long life together.

Congratulations to Jackie and Nate! It was a great wedding and I was so happy to be a part of it!

Vendors for Jackie and Nate’s wedding:

Caterer and Venue:  The Inn at Erlowest

Dresses:  Lily of Saratoga

Men’s Formal Wear:  Joseph A. Banks

Entertainment:  Jeffrey Scott Entertainment

Florist: Central Market

Hair and Make-up: Ann-Marie Flores

Interested in becoming a client? Fill out a contact form or call 518.584.4237 to schedule a consultation.

Susan Blackburn of Blackburn Portrait Design is a Wedding and Portrait Photographer offering Photography services in Saratoga Springs, Lake George, the Adirondack Region and destinations worldwide.

June 7, 2013