Love and Marriage

Yesterday morning, early for me, I received a phone call. Would I, could I, possibly take some photographs at a friend’s afternoon marriage ceremony? I had the camera batteries on charge before I was even showered and dressed. It was a beautiful day and I arrived early enough to take some photographs downtown. I don’t often feel brave enough to take the full camera kit into the center of Chicago. I’m just intimidated by all the people. I’m not sure if I’m scared of someone running off with an expensive lens, or of people laughing at me while I change aforementioned lens in the middle of oncoming traffic.

Anyway, my friends were late, so I got to play. I took pictures of the El, of the buildings, of the newly planted displays in the middle of the sidewalk. I found street signs and building corners to amuse myself until the legal bit began.

Like all weddings, it was over too fast to capture properly, and once all the legal business was carefully accomplished, camera, lenses and Mr & Mrs headed over to Navy Pier for a few photographs. I surprised myself by how much I enjoyed the experience, not just being the only person to witness such a happy event, but hopefully capturing a moment in a day, for a lifetime. Beforehand I had been nervous at the responsibility, but love and happiness are infectious. The bride was beautiful, the groom was handsome and there were many smiles. Of course, most of my favorite shots of the afternoon turned out to be the ones they didn’t know I was taking. My very favorite didn’t even have the happy couple in the frame. It did, however, remind me of the feeling of craziness and absurdity I felt on my own wedding day; high as kite, briefly removed from reality and spinning fast through the air.

Happy 2nd Love Thursday!

If you like photos of Tulips and ceilings and trains, some of the other shots are at http://www.flickr.com/photos/livinginchicago/