Reflections and Shapes | A La Cantera Wedding Image Study
I took this photo a few years ago for Alex and Kristina. While the bride was getting ready, I noticed some striking photos of cowboys on horseback and used their shapes to frame her reflection. The composition worked out well. Weddings move fast, so if a scene isn’t working, I move on. I always shoot in the moment and try not to interrupt.
I’ve been lucky to photograph many venues across Texas, and I rarely shoot at the same place twice. Still, there are a few spots in my hometown of San Antonio that I visit every year. One of them is La Cantera Resort, whether it’s for a family staycation, a wedding party getting ready, or both the ceremony and reception. A couple of years ago, I even went there twice in one month. I enjoy the challenge of finding new shots and avoiding repetition. I always try to think creatively and look for a fresh perspective that tells a story.
What I like most about this image is the little flower girl looking up at Kristina, the bride. Without her, the photo wouldn’t feel as complete. The bride’s mother is on the left, but she’s hard to see due to low contrast. I also have a lovely family photo for them to cherish. I enjoy working with shadows and light, and this shot has both. Your eye goes first to the brightest part—the girl’s reflection in the glass—then follows the shadows to the bride’s face.
Taking this photo was fun. I didn’t realize the bride was looking at me in the reflection when I pressed the shutter. Reflections can come from glass in picture frames, TV screens, hotel windows, or even shiny coffee tables. Sometimes, there just isn’t an interesting shot, and that’s okay. Be ready to walk away and move on. Always check behind you; you might catch a grandparent crying or a loving look waiting to be captured. It’s often best to wait, anticipate, or react when the subject’s eyes meet the camera, like in this photo. As a photographer, you need to deliver great images to your clients, not just snapshots. You have to stay focused and alert all day. It’s as much a mental challenge as a physical one.
