Hey, I'm Meg, welcome to my little corner of the cybersphere!
I'm a Fraser Valley wedding & lifestyle photographer (est. 2014) based in Langley, just west of Vancouver BC.
Take a look around & I'd love to connect with you soon!
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Did someone say wedding portrait photography? Okay, let’s be honest, it was me. And honestly, you have to understand, I’ve been SO excited to share this session with you! In fact, it’s a perfect sneak peek into what I absolutely love about wedding portrait photography!
So here’s the story – Michelle and Karim were married on the beaches of Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, overlooking the ocean. First of all, it was an absolutely beautiful ceremony, filled with romance and intimacy. Throughout the day, the air surrounding this beautiful couple felt thick with an overwhelming sense of joy. I mean, everyone could feel it. And naturally, as a photographer, I was totally there for it! Speaking of their special day, you can see their wedding photos by clicking here: clicking here. Or better yet, keep reading and check out the beautiful portrait photography we captured the day after their oceanside wedding.
Location, location, location
You know, people say that location is everything. And honestly, taking photos in various locations as a day job means I stand behind that statement. Speaking of beautiful locations, Punta Cana is absolutely stunning (seriously! In fact, the ocean in Punta Cana is one of the best I’ve ever experienced! Plus, the sand – I can’t even tell you how amazing it was!) So naturally, we just couldn’t resist making the most of our time by sneaking in a “day after” session (or maybe I should just call it a “honeymoon” session haha ;)).
Not surprisingly, the love these two have for each other is passionate, caring and understanding and really, I loved every minute of watching them interact. Actually, there’s something special to be said for their love and truly, being able to capture it for them in this intimate setting was a privilege.
Looking back, this session was everything I could’ve hoped for and more. For a while now, I’ve wanted to do a session involving water for a long time, whether an ocean or a lake, honestly, it didn’t matter. After all, there is something magical about being in the water that brings about a different level of intimacy and passion that can be hard to capture on camera and best of all, I love the depth it adds to the entire experience.
Onto the beautiful portrait photography
So, without further ado, here’s what a day-after wedding portrait photography session can look like.
All Photos by Meg Kristina Photography
Booking Now for All 2018 & 2019 Weddings
photographer for the authentic & adventurous
Shania’s smokey & sultry portrait session in the waters surrounding Lake Country in the Okanagan is up on the blog tonight. I’ve been so in love with water sessions lately – you’ll be seeing Michelle & Karim‘s passionate day-after session in the OCEAN in Dominican Republic up on the blog very soon. Being in the water brings about a different depth and emotion into photos that I’ve been enamoured with lately. Anyone up for a session in the ocean around White Rock or Vancouver??
Enough of me raving about water portrait sessions though.. Shania contacted me a while back about doing a portrait session with her. Not only is this girl drop dead gorgeous (don’t you love all her colourful and artistic tattoos?!) but I’m also lucky enough to be her cousin. She was out visiting our grandpa in Lake Country, just outside of Kelowna, and I made the trip down from Langley for a quick family visit between weddings and to sneak in a couple photoshoots. This did not disappoint. My stunning cousin has some serious modelling skills and my camera loved her. I couldn’t resist sharing some of my favourites with you! Can’t wait to see you again soon my dear. <3
We’re starting with the exciting part – she said yes!
Now, to the story of this sweet couple. Meet Andreya & Cameron, who got engaged at the end of Rocky Point Pier in Port Moody almost two weeks ago now. Firstly, I have to say, that the setting here was impeccable. Not only was the scenery beautiful, but the magic in the air from the smoke of the recent fires cast a warm hazy glow on the water. Truly, it was breath-taking, and almost surreal in nature.
Before she said yes!
Before we start, a bit of background – Cameron had contacted me beforehand about capturing him proposing to Andreya. Not only was I over the moon ecstatic to be a part of this special moment for them, but I had to put on my sneaking shoes! I arrived extra early & tried to tuck myself into a corner on the pier where I wouldn’t be noticed. Cameron sent me a quick text when they arrived. And I waited as they strolled down the pier and made their way to the end. There was no mistaking their love.
Andreya held tight to Cameron’s hand, gazing up at him with a look of love in her eyes, entirely unaware that her whole world was about to stop for a few heart-pounding moments before everything changed. They reached the end of the pier & cuddled into each other, looking out over the water and the setting sun. I could see when Cameron leaned in and whispered words to Andreya. Then he carefully took both of her hands in his. He continued, and then slowly dropped to one knee. Andreya’s reaction was beyond touching. And of course, slowly but surely a few tears ran down her face. Shaking her head both yes and in disbelief – this moment was theirs.
She said yes!
What happened after?
After Cameron proposed and they were officially engaged, I introduced myself to the unsuspecting Andreya & we snuck off for a quick mini-engagement session in the park surrounding the pier. I absolutely loved our session!
Of course, the timing immediately after the proposal brought about such raw and intimate emotions & moments between these two. Now, I may have to shoot ALL of my engagement sessions right after they become engaged – haha! Seriously though, it was incredible to be a part of. Watching Andreya overcome by what just happened, to see her authentic love for Cameron, and their engagement brought tears to my eyes.
That said, I want to extend a huge congratulations to you two on your engagement, your new house, and your upcoming move to a new town. Here’s to your new fresh start together! I wish you both all the best. Thank you for having me be a part of the start of this next chapter of your lives.
Best friend approved!
All Photos by Meg Kristina Photography.
Booking Now for All 2018 & 2019 Weddings
www.megkristina.com
photographer for the authentic & adventurous
Congratulations! Your love proposed to you! But, now you’re engaged and have a wedding to plan. Don’t worry, I’ve got a nifty list that will get you through the next phase. Wedding season Is upon you! And it’s going to be ok! Yes, engagement brings excitement. However, you might find the process a little overwhelming along the way. Yup, wedding planning is a process. From deciding who sits where, who eats what, what to wear – there are a lot of things to consider!
Why do you need the You’re Engaged List?
Although this is an exciting time in your life, the reality is wedding planning is complex. You have endless decisions to make, and honestly, that can be overwhelming. That said, you can customize and personalize every aspect of your wedding to make it uniquely yours. In addition, as you’re faced with all the different options that come with planning a wedding – namely choosing a venue, dress, photographer (hi!), videographer, florist, etc., therefore, it’s important to take it one step at a time.
Here’s your quick checklist of essential considerations before diving into planning. I’m here to help make your wedding fun! That’s why my top 5 tips are easy to follow, and a perfect starting point!
You’re Engaged! Here’s what’s next!
- Break the News!
First, whip out the iPhone, and send out your texts. Second, post your news on Instagram (if that’s your thing). Send tweets and shares – you get to celebrate with your loved ones. Ultimately, how you share your news is up to you. - Pick a Date
Secondly, you’ll want to pick your date. Do you want a long or a short engagement? Are there any sentimental dates – a “First Date” that you want to commemorate? Is there an important friend or family that already has commitments on certain dates in the future? Considering these factors early on is going to simplify the planning process. Overall, knowing your wedding date is an important first step to planning your wedding. - Wedding Planner – Yay or Nay?!
First, many brides plan their weddings on their own, with the help of mom, friends & other family members. Alternatively, they hire help – specifically, a wedding planner. In fact, many brides choose to collaborate with a wedding planner who brings their specific vision to life. Moreover, wedding planners are planning experts who guide you through overwhelming details. Consequently, a wedding planner becomes a valuable asset to you on your big day. Why? Because ultimately, wedding planners handle all the details so you can fully enjoy every moment. - Prioritize
Initially, figuring out what you can spend where can be tough. However, knowing your priorities is key to making your big day about what’s truly important to you. Therefore, deciding on the things you really want early in the process will make the planning easier. For example, is there one specific venue that you have always dreamt of? Additionally, what about a photographer whose work you love? Furthermore, is there that one dress you just have to have? As a result, this is where prioritizing can help you budget. - Make the Call
With your budget in place, and your date picked, you’re all set to start making those calls! Start booking your priority vendors and check their availability for your date. Most wedding vendors will need a retainer fee/deposit to book your date. It’s important to confirm your ideal date. But, stay flexible – plan a backup! That said, primarily, don’t forget to do your research – in particular, check online for reviews on their business. Also, ask other wedding vendors that are already on your team – in fact, with all my couples I love extending my knowledge to you and consequently, I always have a list of preferred vendors ready to go to refer to you!
And there you have it!
I hope this has helped you even a little bit. Getting engaged sends you into an exciting emotional whirlwind of activity and it can be hard to get your bearings straight. My hope is this blog post helps focus your hopes, wants & dreams for your wedding day and gives you a starting point.
photographer for the authentic & adventurous
Booking Now for All 2018 & 2019 Weddings
