Tori and James's beautiful wedding, on the Bellarine Peninsula just outside Geelong, at Campbell Point House, photographed by Mel Panteli.
I have dreamed about photographing at this venue since I started photographing Weddings in Melbourne. Having seen it in so many gorgeous editorial magazines, styled shoots, and on socials on some of my favourite wedding photographer's pages, I was patiently waiting for a booking to come my way. So I was super excited to hear from Tori and James when their enquiry came through my website.
The first thing I noticed at Campbell Point House, apart from the jaw dropping site of the mansion as you come up the long driveway, was the incredible light that streams through all the ornate windows, as soon as you walk in the door. No expense has been spared in designing and creating this luxury venue, with every inch of the place carefully thought out and styled with the most exquisite furniture, fittings and surfaces.
Capturing the bridal preps was a dream, working the light to create the glamorous shots I was hoping for. Tori wore a magnificent Mariana Hardwick gown, she chose a simple single rose instead of a bouquet, and a divine headpiece. Her classic elegant look was so beautiful to photograph. James' outfit complimented Tori's style perfectly.
This couple chose to have a first look together, before seeing each other at the ceremony. First looks are so intimate to capture, and it adds another whole component to the final gallery. It also means that the couple get to spend a lot more time together at the wedding, which I'm totally in favour of. Having shot so many weddings over decades, it still amazes me how little time most couples get just for each other, so if you are considering doing a first look at your wedding.... Do it!
The ceremony was a true reflection of Tori and James's connection and was perfectly told by their celebrant who was also a stand up comedian. It was full of love, and loads of laughter, and felt very authentic.
The couple's location shots were all that I imagined and more. Having envisaged photographing in this space for so many years, I was more than ready to create some incredible imagery for these clients that I knew they would treasure for years to come. Their gallery was very sophisticated, elegant, timeless, and creative. The couple ordered fine art wedding albums for themselves and their parents, and flicking through the pages I really felt I had created a masterpiece for them.
I was shooting alongside some incredible talent that day, with Yaya Films and Rocco Ancora. It was one of those days when all the stars aligned, with the A-team vendors, the venue, and such a loved up fun couple.
Thank you Tori and James, for choosing me. x
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