The life of a wedding photographer is no less than an adventure. Every day presents a new opportunity, a new story to tell, and a new location to explore. Among all the places I have had the pleasure of performing my craft, Tokyo, Japan, holds a unique place in my heart. The city's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for capturing the beautiful journey of two people uniting in matrimony. I have had the honor of shooting two amazing weddings in Tokyo, five years apart, and both experiences were profoundly different yet equally mesmerizing. As a candid wedding photographer, the beauty of my job lies in capturing the unrehearsed moments, the spontaneous laughter, and the unfiltered emotions that make each wedding unique. I thrive on finding these special moments between poses, those fleeting seconds where true love and joy shine through. In Tokyo, I found a plethora of such moments set against the city's breathtaking panorama. Whether it was a glance exchanged between the couple under the cherry blossom trees or a shared giggle during the shrine visit, each click of my camera captured a story, a memory that would be cherished forever.While the first wedding was set in the lush gardens of the Meiji Shrine, with its traditional architecture adding a touch of timeless elegance, the second one was a modern rooftop affair in the heart of the city, with the Tokyo Skytree towering in the backdrop. Despite being in the same city, the contrast between the two settings offered a unique charm and character to each wedding.Being a wedding photographer is not just about taking pictures; it's about capturing the essence of the couple's love and the spirit of the celebration. And Tokyo, with its blend of tradition and modernity, provided the perfect canvas for me to paint these love stories.So here's to the joy of being a candid wedding photographer, to the thrill of exploring new places, and to the honor of capturing love stories across the globe. Every day may not be the same, but each one is equally special, filled with unexpected surprises, beautiful moments, and the promise of a new story to tell.

A Day in the Life of a Candid Wedding Photographer

In the whirlwind of joy, laughter, and sometimes tears that make up a wedding day, it can be easy to overlook the smaller details. But as any seasoned wedding photographer will tell you, these little elements often hold the most significance. They are the threads that weave together to form the intricate tapestry of a couple's unique love story. From the glinting wedding bands that symbolise unending devotion, to the carefully arranged table settings, and the bouquet bursting with the bride&rsquo;s favourite flowers, each detail plays a crucial role in telling the complete story of the wedding day.
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The atmospherics of the wedding, the mood, the quintessential essence that defines the day, often lies in these details. The couple's personality shines through these choices, their tastes and preferences, their individual and shared histories. A grandmother's heirloom brooch pinned to the bridal bouquet, the handwritten vows carefully penned on a piece of parchment, or the custom decor reflecting a shared interest or passion, these elements are not only visually compelling, but they are emotionally charged fragments of the couple's narrative.
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These details, however, can sometimes go unnoticed in the hustle and bustle of the wedding day. This is where the photographer's role becomes paramount. A good wedding photographer is not just someone who takes photos; they are a storyteller, a chronicler of emotions, a capturer of moments both grand and subtle. It's their keen eye that picks up on these nuances, capturing them in a way that they become lasting memories for the couple to cherish.
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Different types of details require different approaches. Heirloom items, for instance, carry historical and emotional weight and should be photographed with reverence, perhaps in soft, warm light that hints at nostalgia. Handwritten vows, on the other hand, represent the couple's intimate feelings for each other. A close-up shot of the handwritten words, maybe even with the couple in the background, can convey this intimacy. Custom decor, which can range from table settings to wall decorations, reflect the couple's personal tastes and the overall theme of the wedding. These should be captured in a way that they visually complement the larger events of the day.
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Capturing the small details is not merely about taking photographs; it's about preserving a world within a world. These details are the silent witnesses to the unfolding love story, the emotional resonance they carry is immense, and their significance timeless. They reflect the thought, care, and love invested by the couple into their special day. In the grand scheme of a wedding day, these small details might seem insignificant, but in the grand scheme of a couple's love story, they could mean everything.

The Art of Capturing the Small Details in Wedding Photography

Getting married is a monumental milestone, a joy-filled journey leading up to the day you say 'I do'. As a wedding photographer, I've been privileged to share in this journey with countless couples, and I can't emphasize enough the importance of an engagement photography session before the wedding day. This is much more than just a casual photo-shoot &ndash; it's a vital prelude to your wedding, offering countless benefits that contribute to making your wedding day everything you've dreamed of. An engagement session offers an invaluable chance for couples to grow comfortable in front of the camera. For many, this may be the first time being professionally photographed. It&rsquo;s natural to feel a little camera-shy, or unsure about how to pose or where to look. An engagement session is the perfect opportunity to iron out these wrinkles. During this session, you'll learn how to relax, to be yourselves, and, most importantly, to have fun in front of the lens. We, as photographers, will guide you through various poses and help you find what feels most natural and looks best. By the time your wedding day arrives, you'll be pros, ready to tackle the spotlight with grace and confidence, resulting in more natural and stunning wedding day photos. An engagement session also allows you to build a rapport with your photographer. While this might seem trivial, having a strong relationship with your photographer can drastically affect the outcome of your wedding photos. Your photographer is not just someone who takes pictures; they are an integral part of your wedding day. They are there in the intimate moments, the nervous anticipation before the ceremony, the joyous celebration afterwards, and the quiet moments in between. Having a solid rapport with your photographer means they&rsquo;ll understand your preferences, your personality, and how to capture the essence of your love story. An engagement session is like a trial run, allowing you to express your likes and dislikes, to communicate your vision, and to understand your photographer's style. This mutual understanding leads to a smoother, more enjoyable wedding day, and ultimately, photographs that you will cherish for a lifetime. In addition to getting comfortable with the camera and forging a bond with your photographer, an engagement session also provides the opportunity to capture your personalities in a more casual, relaxed setting. Weddings, while beautiful, do not always lend themselves to showing off your day-to-day personalities. You're dressed to the nines, following a schedule, and often surrounded by a crowd. Engagement photos, on the other hand, can be taken anywhere that holds significance for you as a couple. Maybe it's the coffee shop where you had your first date, the park where you walk your dog, or simply your cozy home. These photos capture the authentic, unscripted moments of your life together, showing off your unique love in a way that formal wedding photos might not. Now, let's talk about the multifaceted benefits of engagement photos. These beautiful images can be used for save-the-dates, wedding websites, social media announcements, and d&eacute;cor on your wedding day. Imagine your guests walking into your reception to see a beautiful collage of your engagement photos, offering a glimpse into your love story. Engagement photos also make for wonderful gifts for parents and grandparents, or can be used in a guest book where attendees can write their well-wishes. The possibilities are endless, and they add a beautiful, personal touch to all aspects of your wedding journey. In conclusion, an engagement session contributes significantly to the success of your wedding day photos. It&rsquo;s a fun, relaxed opportunity to build a relationship with your photographer, get comfortable in front of the camera, and capture your unique love story in a casual setting.

The Beautiful Benefits of an Engagement Session: Why It’s A Must Before Your Big Day!

There's no question that Los Angeles, with its diverse blend of stunning landscapes and historic architecture, hosts some of the most beautiful wedding venues in the country. Here, we've handpicked five of the most unique non-chain venues that encapsulate the city's charm and offer unforgettable experiences for your big day.
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First on our list is <a href="https://www.carondelethouse.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Carondelet House. </a>Nestled in the heart of downtown, Carondelet House offers a touch of rustic charm amidst the urban landscape. With its exposed brick walls, vintage-inspired decor, and stunning indoor and outdoor spaces, Carondelet House is perfect for a chic wedding with an intimate feel. While it's a stunning venue year-round, the autumnal months particularly bring out its warm, inviting atmosphere. With its flexibility, it's ideal for any wedding size, be it an intimate gathering or a grand celebration.
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The second venue to consider is <a href="https://ebellofla.org/special-events/weddings/venue-details/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ebell of Los Angeles</a> - a historic landmark with a rich cultural history. The Ebell is a splendid choice for couples seeking a venue with a grandeur ambiance. Its stunning architecture, high ceilings, and lush courtyard provide an extraordinary setting for any wedding. The Ebell shines brightest during the spring and summer months, and is best suited for larger wedding parties.
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Next up, we have <a href="https://www.fighousela.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Fig House, </a>an eclectic, colorful gem nestled in the city's historic Highland Park. The Fig House is perfect for those seeking a venue that breaks the traditional wedding mold. With its modern aesthetic and vibrant color palette, it's a stunning backdrop for a contemporary wedding. The venue is radiant throughout the year, but particularly so in the summer months. It's suitable for weddings of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations.
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The fourth venue on our list is <a href="https://marvimon.com/millwick/">Millwick</a>, a unique urban oasis tucked away in the Arts District of downtown Los Angeles. With its blend of lush greenery and industrial elements, Millwick offers a one-of-a-kind setting that feels both modern and intimate. The indoor space is filled with natural light, thanks to its expansive glass walls, while the outdoor courtyard is perfect for a romantic ceremony under the stars. This venue is particularly magical in the summer, with its cool, laid-back vibe, making it perfect for couples looking for something truly different in the heart of the city.
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Lastly, we have<a href="https://marvimon.com/smogshoppe/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> SmogShoppe,</a> a unique, eco-friendly venue in the heart of Culver City. Once a smog-check center, SmogShoppe now offers a desert-inspired landscape and a 6,500 sq ft indoor-outdoor space filled with vintage furnishings. This venue is perfect for environmentally conscious couples seeking a unique and sustainable location. The desert landscape is breathtaking in the late spring months, and the space can accommodate both small, intimate ceremonies and larger, grander celebrations.
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Los Angeles, with its eclectic mix of venues, truly has something for every couple. Whether you're seeking a grand, historic setting or a unique, modern space, these venues offer unforgettable experiences for your special day.

The Top 5 Unique Wedding Venues in Los Angeles

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Los Angeles, CA @ The Adobe House
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Sandra & Byron

Los Angeles, CA @ Monk Space

Sam & Alejandro

Chris provided the best photography services for our wedding! He captured just what we wanted - candid, raw, and intimate photos at our tea ceremony, regular ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. Not only did he capture what we wanted, but he also went above and beyond by being very professional, punctual, and highly organized. The level of detail and vision Chris brought forward in his work was exceptional. We were very happy to receive our finished photos - they were absolutely stunning!

Amy Nguyễn

I couldn't have asked for a better wedding photographer than Chris Galdamez.
During the photo session, Chris seamlessly blended into the background, capturing the most beautiful candid moments. His ability to catch these spontaneous, heartfelt shots is truly a gift. When it was time for the more formal photos, he took charge efficiently and with a keen eye for detail.
The final results were nothing short of amazing. Every picture was a work of art, filled with emotion and authenticity. I am so grateful to have these memories beautifully preserved. If you're looking for a wedding/engagement photographer who is not only talented but also easy to work with, I wholeheartedly recommend Chris Galdamez. Thank you for everything Chris!

Alejandra Sosa

Chris is AMAZING. His work is great and he’s very professional. He took couples photos for my lovely girlfriend and myself and at first I was a little hesitant because I am not very photogenic. His comfort and simple conversation made it easier for me to take the pictures and our smiles were truly genuine because of our convos. I truly appreciate what Chris has done and if you need your pictures taken, DO NOT HESITATE TO HIRE THIS GUY!! Thanks a million bro these are memories I’ll get to enjoy forever.

Greg Moreno

Chris is such a great photographer who made my girlfriend and I feel so comfortable throughout our shoot. His suggestions for poses to try always had purpose and always came out great! He was very friendly through  the whole shoot and it honestly flew by with how much fun we had. Definitely recommend other couples to get a photo shoot done by him.

Josh F

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Your engagement session is the perfect way to celebrate this special chapter in your lives as a couple. In just one hour, we'll capture beautiful, meaningful moments that you can use to announce your engagement, create save-the-dates, or add a personal touch to your wedding website. You'll receive 35 high-resolution photos, each one a cherished keepsake of this exciting time. Within two weeks, your images will be ready and uploaded to an online gallery, where you can easily access and share them with loved ones.

Engagement Session - 1 Hour

With 8 hours of photography coverage, having a second photographer alongside me means we can be in two places at once, whether it's capturing the excitement of getting ready or those heartfelt expressions during the ceremony. Together, we'll provide 500 to 800 beautifully enhanced high-resolution images that tell the full story from every angle. Your photos will be delivered via Pixieset, and you'll have them in your hands within 60 days, ready to relive those moments. Plus, the engagement session is our chance to get comfortable together before the big day, ensuring everything goes smoothly.

Wedding Collection Two - 8 Hours

This package is perfect for couples who want every moment captured, from the excitement of getting ready to the energy of dancing late into the night, all without feeling rushed. With 12 hours of coverage by Chris Galdamez and a second photographer, we’ll ensure that no moment is missed, even when there are many moving parts throughout the day. You’ll receive 500 to 800 beautifully enhanced and edited high-resolution images, all delivered through a stunning online gallery via Pixieset. The package also includes an engagement session, giving us the chance to get comfortable together before your big day. Your photos will be safely delivered within 60 days, ready to be cherished for a lifetime.

Wedding Collection Three - 12 Hours

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