You know what I really love about this business?  Besides the couples that I get to work with, it’s the friendships, mutual respect, and willingness to help each other that springs up among photographers.  One such friend of mine is Humza Yasim in Dallas.  Late last year, Humza heard that I was a bit under the weather and had a big three day wedding to photograph.  He offered to fly down and help me - no questions asked.  While I didn’t need his help, it was certainly appreciated and we agreed we’d help each other out in times of need.

One such time recently came up for him.  He needed another photographer to help with a wedding and I was fortunate enough to be able to help him.  I say fortunate because Roshani and Rupesh were an amazing couple. 

I wanted to share some of those images - a lot more than I usually do - but it really was an amazing event at a gorgeous venue (the Omni Hotel at Las Collinas in the Dallas area.)

First, I have been so lucky lately.  My last two brides have chosen “different” shoes.  You may remember that Vivien wore pink shoes, well, Roshani wore red shoes!

After everyone got ready, Rupesh enjoyed the baraat and was welcomed by Roshani’s family.

He made his way to the ceremony and waited for Roshani to make her entrance.

Now, pay careful attention as this is your first hint that both Roshani and Rupesh are Longhorns - as were a large number of the guests.  You’ll see this again later on!

Roshani looked amazing and listened intently to some of the readings and prayers.

It was a gorgeous day, though admittedly it was warm AND sunny.  With plenty of bottled water making its rounds, the ceremony went on as planned.

 

The flower girls’ basket was full of red and yellow rose petals.

After the ceremony was completed, it was time to go and get some portraits done.  While the guests went indoor to enjoy the cocktail hour, we proceeded to get some couple photos. 

Humza focused in on the main portraits while I looked for touching moments and details.

Of course, I did get a few portraits in myself.

Then it was on to the reception where they had a lovely stack of cupcakes awaiting the guests.

Roshani and Rupesh made their grand entrance…

There were several speeches - and “roasts” - but the best of all was a special gift for Rupesh:  the bar tab from his bachelor party!

 

They then enjoyed their first dance as husband and wife.

And the party started!

Finally, at the end of the night, Rupesh (and Roshani) did a Longhorn rap!

And so the night ended.  I want to thank my good friend Humza for asking me to help him out.  I sure look forward to the next time.  I also want to thank Roshani and Rupesh for being as great as they were.

The International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP) announced the winners of the Winter 2008 Photo Contest today and…drum roll, please…this photo of Derek from his wedding to Stephanie in October won first place in the “Groom Portrait” category.

Just thought I’d share as I’m really happy with this photograph.  From the moment I saw Derek sitting there chatting with his groomsmen (and attendant), I visualized this as a dramatic, classic, black and white portrait.  Seems others agreed with me!