For Kiersten and Jonathan, the James River in Richmond wasn't just a beautiful location, it was where they went on their second date. Returning to this special spot with the ACL/RF&P James River Bridge as their backdrop made their elopement even more meaningful.
Back to Where It Started
The James River location was perfect for their intimate ceremony. The historic train bridge provided a stunning backdrop, and the timing just before sunset gave us that beautiful golden light that makes every photo special.
An Intimate Ceremony
It was just the four of us on the riverbank: Kiersten, Jonathan, their officiant, and me. This small, intimate setting made the ceremony feel incredibly personal and special.
Kiersten looked absolutely beautiful in her dress, the lace details and flowing fabric photographed beautifully in the evening light. Jonathan looked sharp and handsome in his well-tailored suit. You could see how much they meant to each other just by watching them during the ceremony.
Heartfelt Vows
Their vows were genuine and heartfelt, the kind of personal promises that come from really knowing someone. They spoke about their journey together and their excitement for the future. The officiant did a beautiful job incorporating the significance of the location and their love story into the ceremony.
Film Photography Experience
Kiersten and Jonathan got to sample all of my film packages during their session. We started with instant film shots using my Lomography Instant Wide Glass with the help of my main Godox Strobe, they got to see these photos develop right on the spot, which is always fun!
For medium format, I shot Kodak Gold on my RB67. I was able to capture some beautiful portraits with that classic film look and depth. But the real highlight was shooting slide film with my Olympus OM-4. These turned out particularly cool because after I developed them, I was able to display them using a slide projector, and I gave them a slide viewer to keep so they can enjoy viewing them anytime.
My fiancé Jalisa also made them a personalized photo album for their instant photos. She used her Cricut to create a custom cover featuring a silhouette from one of their photos, it turned out amazing and was the perfect way to display their instant film memories.
Sunset Photos
After the ceremony, we stayed for sunset portraits. The light was perfect, and Kiersten and Jonathan were great sports about staying late to get those golden hour shots. The combination of the beautiful light, the train bridge silhouette, and the river made for some incredible images that I know they'll love.
The Dark Walk Back
By the time we finished shooting, it was completely dark. We had quite the struggle trying to pack up my changing tent without being able to see what we were doing. Then we all had to make our way back to the cars in the dark, using our phone flashlights to navigate the path. It was definitely an adventure, but those sunset shots were absolutely worth the effort!
Amazing Clients
Kiersten and Jonathan really are the best clients I could ask for. They were so easy to work with, patient during the long sunset shoot, and just genuinely fun to be around. Plus, they surprised me with the sweetest gifts, a mug and candle that now have a special place in my studio. It's clients like these who make this job so rewarding.
A Perfect Day
Kiersten and Jonathan's James River elopement was everything an intimate wedding should be: personal, meaningful, and beautiful. Getting to capture their special day in the place where their relationship really began was something special. I'm so grateful they trusted me with their elopement photography and made me feel like part of their celebration.
Congratulations, Kiersten and Jonathan! Thanks for being such amazing clients and for all the thoughtful gifts. Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness together.
For intimate elopement and wedding photography in Richmond and beyond, visit stephen.photography. I'd love to help tell your love story.