Chasing Moments
In the early days of my photography journey, as I scoured online platforms in pursuit of opportunities, I stumbled upon a heartfelt plea on a local Craigslist post. A couple, deeply in love, sought an affordable wedding photographer to capture the most significant day of their lives. It was a call that resonated with my aspirations and, with a hint of nervous excitement, I reached out to them.
In my message, I laid bare my earnest desire to build a portfolio enriched with the emotions of a genuine wedding day. I offered a rate that reflected my status as a novice, hoping that my passion would shine through the lens even if my experience was still in its infancy. To my delight, the couple responded, not just open to the idea but enthusiastic about the prospect of being part of a photographer's early journey.
As fate would have it, this would not be a solo endeavor. In those uncertain times of the COVID-19 pandemic, I decided to bring a dear friend, Antonio, into the fold. While he had previously been a bartender by trade, Antonio shared my passion for storytelling through imagery, and together, we embarked on this thrilling adventure.
The couple, devout Christians, radiated warmth and kindness from the very first meeting. Their love story unfolded before us, a testament to the resilience of love even in the face of a global crisis. The wedding preparations unfolded against the backdrop of social distancing measures and masked embraces, yet the joy in their eyes spoke volumes.
Antonio and I dove into our roles with dedication, capturing every intricate detail and candid moment. From the intimate ceremony to the elation of the first dance, our cameras immortalized the essence of their union. Antonio, with his unique perspective as a former bartender, brought an unexpected flair to the shots, capturing the spirit of the celebration with an artistry born of shared laughter and camaraderie.
The challenges of navigating a wedding during a pandemic only strengthened our resolve. We adapted to the changing circumstances, finding creative ways to encapsulate the love that prevailed despite the uncertainties. The couple's unwavering faith and the support of their close-knit community added an extra layer of warmth to the visual narrative we were crafting.
As the night unfolded and the last dance approached, I couldn't help but reflect on the serendipity of it all. What started as a response to a Craigslist post had transformed into a significant chapter in my burgeoning career. Chasing moments, I realized, was not just about freezing frames in time; it was about capturing the spirit of resilience, love, and the human connection that perseveres even in the most challenging circumstances.
In the end, this wedding became more than a portfolio entry; it became a cherished memory of newfound friendships, shared dreams, and the enduring power of love, even in a world touched by a global pandemic. The couple, our gracious collaborators in this photographic journey, not only received a collection of timeless memories but unwittingly became the inspiration for the next aspiring photographer ready to chase their moments.
Curious to see more of the magic Antonio brings to his lens? Dive into his world of captivating visuals and behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram. Follow him @armentanto and witness the artistry that elevates each frame.
