A Toledo Wedding

Yo, my name is Rucel Martinez, though my friends call me Rusty. I have been a wedding photographer for only a couple years, but I have had a camera in my hands since I was eleven years old. I grew up in southern Mexico and moved to northern Indiana for college. About a year after graduation I found a career at MudLOVE as photographer and design assistant. I was especially happy that working at MudLOVE left me with enough time to freelance. My favorite time of the year is summer when I get to be a part of someone's big day. I was delighted when Hannah and Eric asked me to shoot their wedding in Toledo. Little did I know there were so many beautiful pockets in Toledo!


Growing up in Mexico I was surrounded by ancient indigenous history and beautiful architecture, some of which dates back to the 17th century. Every wedding I shoot is as monumental as those old buildings but far more meaningful, each with its own story. When I shoot weddings I look for the architectural elements of any composition. Typically this means I gravitate toward symmetrical compositions with a grounded focus point.



However, within each composition there is always a story. The story is the main feature; the composition is simply a supporting character. Learning to see, and then capture the story is my job as the photographer, but it is a job that takes a lot of practice. One of my favorite moments during the course of the wedding is the first look. I think it is such a pivotal point in the life of each bride and each groom; the first time you see your best friend as your spouse. Of course the dress, suit, and rings are also important supporting characters to the big story.



One of the best parts of shooting a wedding is getting to meet the people who helped shape and form the bride and groom into the people they are. Eric and Hannah had chosen a group of wonderful, energetic people to stand with them on their wedding day. I love how hard they all worked to make their day as perfect as possible. And because they know the couple so well I get as many inside pointers as I can from the best man and maid of honor.



As I am taking photos with the wedding party I make sure I have time with the bride and groom individually. Getting to work one-on-one with someone is one of my personal joys as I can be more personal with each portrait. As they become more comfortable in front of the camera I am on the lookout for more sweet moments between them.


 


The backdrop to any wedding, the venue, can be easy or difficult to shoot in. Thankfully, the church Hannah and Eric were married in was modern and had a beautiful and bright hall for the reception. It was the perfect mixture of light and temperature, and I love the blue walls!



Thank you so much for joining me in exploring this beautiful story. I would not trade my job for anything and I hope this inspires you to continue working and practicing your art.


Feel free to get in touch at rucel.martinez@gmail.com, I would love to hear from you!

COMPANY: Rucel Martinez Photography

WEBSITE: http://www.rucelmartinez.com

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