Here are a few shots I was able to capture during my stay.

Namaste ;)

Women working in the rice fields:

One of my favourite shots taken during my whole trip:

The following three photos are a series of shots taken at sunrise behind the Himalaya Mountains in Pokhara. One of the most beautiful things I will ever set my eyes upon...

A dilruba player:

So many spices and food choices:

A year ago to date, I had the priviledge to spend a month in north western India and 10 days in Nepal documenting the work being done at various orphanages and volunteer projects as well as volunteering myself. This was a life changing experience and I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to do such a thing.

While I enjoyed visiting a few famous landmarks, the most poignant aspect of my trip was learning the different cultures as well as seeing first hand the way some people live in this part of the world. 

These following images reflect my experience of India. They may not have the same emotional impact for you as they do for me but many people have asked me and I've finally decided to share them.

The things I saw, the people I met, the emotions I felt will never be forgotten...

**Please note: I have broken down this post in 2 parts. I have not included photos of the orphanages or landmarks that I visited but rather images that express my experience of this part of the world. Nepal post coming soon!

I would have brought every orphaned child and dog that I saw back home with me

One of many Tuk Tuk rides:

Cow dung patties for fuel:

A school in the slums:

The next image is close to my heart. It's a slum child's depiction of home, although her home looks nothing like this...

Dates have changed slightly for my upcoming boudoir marathon in April. The marathon will now be held on April 8th and 9th instead. Please contact me quick for additional information or to book your time slot!

 

 

Veronique and Marc wanted a winter session as a contrast to their upcoming wedding in Cancun, Mexico! Can't wait :)

Ok I have to mention it...doesn't Veronique look like Neve Campbell?

Location: Majestic Elegance Punta Cana

Dress: Jocelyn by Maggie Soterro from Bridal Couture (Windsor)

Suit: Le Chateau

Flowers: Angel's Accents

Earrings: Divine Jewels

Sarah's Key by Tatiana De Rosnay: (****). I couldn't put this book down. I finished it within 2 days...maybe less. Every page got better and better and every chapter drew me in more then the last. 

This book revolves around two characters. Sarah, a young Jewish girl taken during a little known round up of the Jews by the French police during World War II, and of Julia, a present day journalist investigating the events that occurred in 1942. During Julia's research, she stumbles upon information that uncovers a link between her and Sarah.

The Book of Negroes by Lawrence Hill: (***1/2). What I loved most about this novel was its thoroughly researched historical content as well as the inspiring strength of the main character. 

This book is about the slave trade in the 1700s. It chronicles the life of Aminata Diallo and her story from her birthplace in Africa to the many different owners and locations that she experiences throughout her life. It's a story of sorrow and joy and Hill's writing does a fantastic job of developing Aminata's character and drawing us into her struggles and triumphs.

The Book of Awesome by Neil Pasricha: (****). I have never laughed so hard while reading a book in my life! 

Pasricha is a regular guy with a regular 9-5 job who started writing a blog highlighting 1000 awesome things that happen on a day to day basis. He then wrote this book featuring a selection of his favourites; such as 'sleeping in new bed sheets', 'peeling an orange in one shot' or 'when someone lands on the hotel you just built in Monopoly'. 

I loved Pasricha's witty and sarcastic style of writing. This book definitely makes people appreciate the small things that life sometimes offers us.

I'd like to mention that virtually every wedding that I photograph, traditional family portraits are included. It's understandable that most people want these photos as they are great souvenirs and reminders of the important people who were there on your special day.

I'll start with the large group shots. Frequently I am asked to take a photo of everyone attending the ceremony. This is not a problem but there are a couple things that you must take into account in order for everything to work out smoothly. 

First, location is key. Church steps, balconies, hills, grandstands all make great places for photos like this.

Secondly, it helps tremendously to have the officiant or clergy announce the group shot so that everyone is aware that it is going to take place and heads to the right location. This way, we aren't wasting time rounding up missing guests.

Now onto family portraits. Given that there is only a limited amount of time allocated for all the photos, it's never a bad idea to designate someone to organize family members. Preferably, this person should not be in the wedding party but should be close enough to know everyone involved. 

Once the participants are organized and ready to go, I start with the largest group of people and work my way through progressively smaller groups. Example: 'Grandparents, siblings, parents, newlyweds'. 'Siblings, parents, newlyweds'. 'Parents, newlyweds'. Etc.

I should also mention that if there are any family members with special needs (i.e grandparents with limited mobility), I do my best to prioritize these photos. This also goes for children as they have short attention spans.

One final note, it is best to arrange a location as close to the ceremony site as possible in order to simplify transportation and timing. I generally choose some place with a nice back ground such as trees, a nice wall, open fields, etc. 

While every wedding is different, hopefully these guidelines help to streamline your day.