Bridal Inspiration by Oakland Photographer Ella Sophie

This entry was posted on April 18, 2018 by Ella Bessette.

Ella Sophie, Oakland Photographer & Artist. Introduction

Hey, I'm Ella Sophie. I'm an Oakland CA based photographer and Artist. I've been working as a full time professional photographer for over 10 years. My focus is, and has always been, on empowering women. And on encouraging individuality, inclusiveness, and love. I grew up mostly in New York. After college and living in NYC for a few years my husband and I spent some time traveling around the world. Eventually landing us in the beautiful San Francisco bay area. Where we now live in an adorable tiny house with our rescued cat named Kitty.

Much of my photography is artistic portraits of women. Honoring their bodies and their minds. But I also photograph ethical fashion and alternative weddings. So today I'd like to share some images from a beautiful and fun bridal editorial photoshoot. While I'm not sure this is my all time favorite shoot, it is among my favorites. I'm not sure how anyone can choose a single favorite photoshoot, that would be like picking a favorite kid. Although, I'm not a mom, maybe that's actually easier than we're led to believe?

Frida Kahlo Inspired Elopement

I've always loved Frida Kahlo's art work. And I know that a ton of people have done photoshoots inspired by her style and her work. But, one day I realized that two of my friends looked just like Frida and her friend Trudi. I couldn't resist the temptation to create these images.

This was an all-woman production. I worked with vendors from around the country to make this shoot happen. The couple is based on Frida Kahlo & Gertrude Blom. Frida needs no introduction. Gertrude, nicknamed Trudi, was a photographer, activist, journalist and a friend of Frida's. I took some creative liberty here, re-envisioning them as partners rather than friends. When I created these images I focused on emotion, smiles, laughter, and real moments. Models tend to be very regal and stiff in styled shoots, so I decided to consciously avoid that. I wanted to create something that felt more authentic and contemporary.

My interest in art history inspired the text I wrote for the invitations. Each aspect of the invitation pays homage to important historic milestones in civil rights, art, and feminist history. Artist Sarah Gotowka designed the stationery which features her unique pressed flower method. More flower inspiration comes from florist Dawn Valentine. She owns the Local Flower Market in Red Hook NY. Dawn created two stunning bouquets as well as the gorgeous crown we see on Trudi. Also, I love the hot peppers that embellish the bouquets!

As for the impeccable styling. Bridal Marche shop owner Vanessa hand selected the dresses. Bridal Marche, based in Oakland, is a great shop. The dresses are often up-cycled vintage pieces. The jewelry is all found pieces sourced from markets and artists around the world.

Giant Red Bridal Bouquet. Photographer Ella Sophie

Unique offbeat engagement rings, San Francisco Photographer Ella Sophie

Frida Kahlo & Trudi, friends and activists. Portrait by Photographer Ella Sophie

Bridal Portrait by Oakland Photographer Ella Sophie, unique Mexican wedding dress.

About the stationery.

The details on the invitation are inspired by historical events and places. August 18 1920, marks the passing of the nineteenth amendment. So I chose August 18th as the date on the invitation. Schapiro Gardens is a fictional place. Its namesake is Miriam Schapiro, a leading figure in the feminist art movement. The address of the venue comes from Supreme Court case #14-556 Obergefell v Hodges. Which marks the legalization of same sex marriage. And lastly, Del Carmen, Mexico is the location of the Frida Kahlo museum.

Frida & Trudi, wedding invitation stationery. Photo by Ella Sophie, Oakland. Pressed Flower Invitation, Detail shot Oakland Wedding Photographer Ella Sophie Two brides, femme brides with bouquets. Destination wedding photographer Ella Sophie Laughing brides, photographed by alternative wedding photographer Ella Sophie Brides dancing together. Photography by Ella Sophie Beautiful brides, photographed by destination photographer Ella Sophie. Adventure and destination wedding, outdoor portrait of brides by Ella Sophie Outdoor portrait of brides at sunset, by adventure elopement photographer Ella Sophie Bride kissing her wife's hand. Photography by Ella Sophie Unique Bridal Fashion, Maid of honor fashion inspiration. Photography By Ella Sophie unique bridal hair styling. Photography by Ella Sophie. Oakland offbeat wedding photographer Dreamy Bride by a stream in the woods. Adventure elopement photographer Ella Sophie