2014 | Behind the Scenes

Wedding photographers take thousands upon thousands of photos in a season. Not surprisingly, we get lots of outtakes … and lots of those are of ourselves. This blog post is one of my favorites of the year because it shows how hard we work and also how unglamorous this job can be. We don't take ourselves too seriously around here. :)

"Are you ready? Can I let it go? … Are you ready now?" 

Love this girl. Emily joined me for a couple weddings in 2014 (even though 2013 was technically her last season with me).

Photographers should know how to attach boutonnieres. End of story.

This might be my favorite moment from 2014. That time I scoped out a location and then found a dumpster in front of it when it was time to shoot. I moved that dumpster, you guys. Thanks to Jeni for capturing the proof.

My poor second shooters. I put them through the ringer when it comes to testing light. There's lots more where these came from. ;)

Blending in with the wedding party. Ish.

Markie and Caitlin have picked up Emily's knack for acting out the would-be scene. So proud of them.

Where's Samantha?

OK, maybe THIS is my favorite moment from 2014. Tracey's dad, Mark, is the nicest father of the bride ever!

Haha, that one up there on the left makes me laugh. Hi Doug!

I didn't realize how much pointing I did until I looked at these photos. I can be so bossy sometimes.

Nathan is usually a little more reserved when we're not shooting with friends.

Look at Samantha, taking after all my other second shooters. :D

It's official. Caitlin is way too cool for school. Papa-paparazzi!

Sorry, Anthony. I'll give you a plug though: Check out this guy at Blue Tie Cinema! He knows his stuff.

A lot of wedding photography is hurry up and wait. Caitlin waits like a boss.

A little shout out to Matt, Nathan's photobooth assistant! He's the most hardworking and courteous guy you've ever met. We're lucky to call him a friend!

Jeni lights up a room. (And a sidewalk.)

"And this is how you cut the cake."

So thankful for this girl's friendship!

Yes. Yes, you are in my shot.

Like I said, Jeni lights up a room. Everyone loves her, including me!

Hey ladies, remember when it was hailing and we still took portraits outside?! Yeah, I won't ever forget that either. THANKS FOR BEING AWESOME!

And we'll end with a few of my faves from the photobooth ...

From the bottom of my heart, thank you to all of my clients, second shooters and friends that made this year as great as it was. Here's to 2015!

Rachael & Nick | Photobooth

Rachael and Nick's guests were master photobooth-goers. Nathan and his assistant, Matt, were slammed all night. Check out some of the fun! (And I have to say this: We are currently booking 2014 photobooths. E-mail info@lanebaldwinphotography.com if you're interested in learning more! :) )

Chelsea & Drew | Cleveland Ballroom at Park Lane Wedding

They weren't exactly chummy after their first meeting. Chelsea and Drew worked the same summer job on their break from college, and in Drew's own words: "For some reason I was totally dedicated to my summer job. I am such a perfectionist." That was the problem. Chelsea describes Drew's dedication as "enthusiasm" and it totally overwhelmed her.

"He acted like he knew everything and his way was the best way to do whatever task," she said. "He will tell you he was the manager but really he was a cafe associate just like me."

Something changed, however, because after that first summer of working together, the two stayed in touch when they went back to their respective schools. Chelsea realized that Drew is just super warm and friendly and cares extra about everything he does.

It took a couple more years before they would even start dating, but there was no looking back once they started. Their relationship even survived long distance after Drew graduated from college before Chelsea.

"I love Drew's smile," Chelsea said. "It is irresistible and makes it so hard to get mad at him. I also love his sense of humor. He knows how to make me laugh and can brighten any mood."

Chelsea and Drew are the type of people that feel like your friends 10 minutes after meeting them. They're both so friendly, and I've loved getting to know them this past year! Thank you for always being so awesome, you two. I can't wait to see where life takes you (and what kind of dog you settle on)!

This little flower girl just thought Chelsea was the coolest. I have to agree with her!

Chelsea's dress was so pretty!

I love that Drew escorted his mom down the aisle.

And THIS is the face of an excited groom ...

I have my friend Brittany to thank for that wide-angle shot up there. :)

Love this bridge in the Flats. Such a great backdrop!

Favorite.

Gorgeous, Chelsea!

You too, Drew! ;)

And then it was off to the Cultural Gardens ...

This is another favorite. You nailed it, Drew!

I loved shooting at The Ballroom at Park Lane! Melissa and her team are fabulous!

Popcorn bar!

To see more from Chelsea and Drew's navy and yellow wedding, click here to view a SLIDESHOW or watch it here:

Ceremony: Bay United Methodist Church Reception: The Ballroom at Park Lane Caterer: Marigold DJ/Lighting: Selective Sound Florist: Urban Orchid Hair and Makeup: Vanity Lab Cake: Wild Flour Bakery Bride's Dress: Wtoo Bride's Shoes: Etienne Aigner Bridesmaids' Dresses: David's Bridal Tuxes: Men's Wearhouse Limo: A-1 Mr. Limo Invitations: LookLoveSend Program Fans: Magnet Street Honeymoon: Western Caribbean Cruise!

Chelsea & Drew | Cleveland Ballroom at Park Lane Wedding Sneak Peek

This wedding was one of the most fun I've had all year. Between Chelsea and Drew's demeanors, their families and bridal party, the debut of our photo booth, and their venue (the Ballroom at Park Lane), I would be perfectly happy shooting this wedding all over again next weekend. What do you think, guys? Come back from your cruise and get married again? ;) These two planned their navy-and-yellow, chevron-themed day immaculately. Everything went off without a hitch, and I can't wait to show you all of it in a couple weeks!