Super 8 Video for Chic NYC Wedding

Sometimes you just know a wedding is going to be magical af. That was definitely the case when Kaitlin and Michael reached out to me. The day did not disappoint! I documented their sophisticated NYC wedding on mixed media, including Super 8 video. Check it out!

A Chic New York Wedding

In the time I’ve known Kaitlin and Michael, it’s become very clear just how much they love New York City. we spent their engagement session exploring Brooklyn Heights. Their wedding day brought big Manhattan energy with their stunning restaurant venue. I love how their Super 8 video brings out the nostalgia and artistry of this incredibly modern wedding day.

We started Kaitlin and Michael’s wedding day at their apartment in Brooklyn. Once they were ready, they shared a first look in the garden behind their apartment. I love how lush and private it felt. The couple really got to breathe in the moment together before friends and family joined them. 

Telling the Story on Super 8 Video and Mixed Media

I documented Kaitlin and Michael’s wedding on mixed media with a special focus on Super 8 video and film photography. In addition to being my signature media, they perfectly captured the raw, artistic energy around Kaitlin and Michael’s wedding day.

As I started planning their Super 8 video and photography coverage, I asked Kaitlin and Michael what they hoped for from their video and images. Here’s what they shared: “We absolutely loved the engagement photos, so just more of that vibe! Romantic, warm editing, ‘at the moment,’ and candid photos you look at and feel like you're back in that moment. We also want to capture the energy and fun that people are having.” (Definitely check out those engagement photos here!

I would say we realized Kaitlin and Michael’s vision. These dreamy images and nostalgic video give you a sense of exactly what it was like to get caught up in the moment of this wedding. The in-between moments feel as intentional and artistic as all of the carefully-planned details of the day. In their engagement photos, Kaitlin and Michael wanted to highlight the playful side of their relationship. I think that really shows in their wedding photos and video as well.

A Day Infused with Personal Style

Kaitlin and Michael’s Super 8 video and photos show how much of their personal style infused their wedding day. I already knew Kaitlin had incredible taste because I took their engagement photos in Brooklyn over the summer. Michael and Kaitlin both showed up for that session impeccably styled for a sunny summer photoshoot in the city. 

Even though I had this prep, Kaitlin still floored me with THREE incredible looks on her wedding day. It’s no surprise that she’s a professional stylist. Every single look was epic. I love how they translated on film - a brilliant balance of high fashion and unfiltered moments. 

Their outfits weren’t the only part of the wedding that showed off Kaitlin and Michael’s style. A vintage New York taxi transported them from their apartment to their venue in Manhattan. The incredible yellow car was a moment. We snapped plenty of photos with Kaitlin in her sophisticated custom suit and pearl veil. I love how these colors look on film.

Their New York wedding venue, Alligator Pear, set the tone for an intimate, connection-centered celebration. From the towering ceilings to the cozy nooks, it gave guests opportunities to be in the midst of things and steal away for conversations. The ridiculously delicious food and drinks didn’t hurt either.

Your Super 8 Video

Are you interested in having me document your wedding on Super 8 video? I’m a Seattle-based photographer and videographer, and I’m stoked to travel to wherever your story unfolds. Let’s capture some nostalgic slices of life on vibey video. Reach out to me here!

Thank you to all the vendors who made this New York wedding so dope:

Photography and Super 8 Videography: Sara Welch Photography 

Florist: A Petal to Peddle

Cake and other Desserts: From Lucie

Hair and Makeup: Elena Ganz

Bride's Suit: handmade in NYC

Bride's Long Dress: Grace Loves Lace

Bride's Short Dress: Sarah Seven

Groom's Suit & Groomsmen suits: designed by the bride & groom and made through the bride's company 

Jewelry and Rings: Love Locked 

Catering: Alligator Pear with Chef Dominick Lee 

Invitations: Minted 

Newspaper program: designed by the bride and printed through Print Newspaper

Vintage Taxi: The Checker Cab

Level Up Your Wedding Story with Super 8 Videography

You’re putting a lot of care into creating a wedding day that feels like you. Your celebration is about authenticity and connection, not checking off a to-do list of generic events. If you’re looking for a way to turn your memories into art, you’ll appreciate the nostalgic, unfiltered quality of Super 8 videography.

Instant Nostalgia with Super 8 Videography

Sometimes wedding videography gets a reputation for being a bit cheesy because it can be overproduced. Fortunately, emotion doesn’t have to be captured in 4k. The beauty of Super 8 videography is that it tells your wedding story in the most nostalgic, no-bullshit way possible. 

Super 8 is a truly unique wedding videography experience. You don’t spend a lot of time waiting on your videographer to pose you and give you direction. In fact, there are no forced emotions or retakes. You get to stay in the moment with your people feeling your feels and soaking up this once-in-a-lifetime day.

Your Groovy Wedding Story 

In a lot of ways, Super 8 videography is a more relaxed approach to documenting your wedding. It’s great for marriers who want a more laid-back experience and honest, artistic video to relive their day again and again. Super 8 is great for those amazing unplanned moments and the cherished in-betweens. You know, the moments that feel like you.

My clients universally tell me that they’re so glad they added Super 8 coverage to their wedding day. They love the videos and cherish them deeply. It’s easy for them to imagine cozy anniversaries rewatching them or reliving those stunning moments with their future kids. Like film photography, Super 8 has a richness that makes it heirloom-worthy.

Would you like me to document your wedding with Super 8 videography? Let’s tell your story with this dreamy medium. Reach out to me here!

The Art of a Family Photography Session on Film

Your family deserves the best when it comes to heirlooms. They preserve the moments that mean the most. That’s why a family photography session on film is so special. Film’s natural imperfections tell a richer story than clean, perfect digital photos. As a family photographer, I’m sharing all the reasons unfiltered film family photos are so cool.

Your Family Photography Session as Art

Film photography is an art. It’s the best way to romanticize your life! Commemorate the fleeting moments that make your family’s life so rich with art that reflects your reality. It’s those candid slices of life that are at the heart of our relationships. They’re also unpredictable and make for breathtaking photos.

Moreover, film is photography; photography is film. Photography is so intertwined with film in a way few other industries are connected to such a specific medium or product. It’s impossible to disassociate photography from film and its history. Digital photography lacks the character of film. Ironically, that’s part of why it’s so celebrated now more than ever.

Creative and Logistical Perks of Film Photos

People assume that digital photos will be an easier experience because they’re more used to it. There are actually a lot of perks to doing your family photography session on film. From a timeline perspective, everything is much more relaxed and fast. I can deliver a film session in two weeks, instead of four to six. Mostly, I have to wait for my film to be developed and scanned by Photovision so I can pass them on to you. I don’t have to upload or back up files or do major edits. No overthinking and less stress means you get your incredible images faster. 

As a photographer, I also find that my film images have a richness that’s due to the nature of the medium. I’m forced to be more involved in the process and be intentional from start to finish. From the time I load a roll of film to where I develop, scan, or print it, I have to make decisions and commit to them. It’s a more holistic process that keeps me engaged with my camera and the moments unfolding between your family members.

Film photos hold a lot of life and make you see the humanity at the core of an image. It gives me the sense of being invited into your story. You can see more from this film family session here.

Would you like me to document your family on film? Let’s tell your story with nostalgic, emotive images. Reach out to me here!

Dreamy New York Engagement Photos in Brooklyn

New York is an incredible city full of stunning backdrops. For New York engagement photos, it’s easy to get carried away trying to find the “perfect” location and poses. Kate and Michael focused on documenting what they love about the city and their relationship for some truly unique engagement photos. Check out these cool, candid images from a dreamy day in Brooklyn Heights.

A Vision for New York Engagement Photos

When Kate and Michael first inquired about engagement photos, they knew they wanted to do an August session. The plan was to use the photos at their September wedding at Alligator Pear in Manhattan. I’m not exaggerating when I tell you they had a vision for translating their dream day around their neighborhood into a dope lifestyle engagement session.

Kate and Michael love exploring their Brooklyn neighborhood together. They take long walks and play games. For their New York engagement photos, they wanted to prioritize candid images that show their love of the city and their playfulness with each other. They said, “We like photos that feel like you are there with us.” I think we NAILED their vision.

A Dreamy Day in Brooklyn

This fun day was such a dream for all of us. We started the session in their Brooklyn Heights apartment’s private backyard garden. They pay $50 each year for this private garden. To say it’s the best deal in New York would be an understatement. 

Since it was August, it was HOT. We headed down to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade in search of a breeze from the East River. The park has the most beautiful view of the Manhattan skyline.

Next we spent time on the waterfront at Brooklyn Bridge Park. Kate and Michael shared a charcuterie board and Aperol spritz over a game of cribbage. I photographed them while sharing in the cheese and sparkling water. It was such a laid back experience where we all got to be in our element.

Finally, we wrapped up the evening with cannoli from their favorite bodega, Lassen and Hennigs. They ate the cannoli on a stoop and grabbed drinks at their favorite neighborhood bar, Custom House. I’m a total introvert, so you know we were having a good time together when we lost track of time and bonded over bar food late into the night.

Honestly, I loved every image from this engagement session. You can see more here.

Would you like me to photograph your New York engagement photos? Let’s tell your story with artistic images. Reach out to me here!

Picking the Perfect Family Photography Package

When you want to get professional family photos, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the ways different photographers break down their prices and packaging. As a Seattle family photographer, I’ve documented families all over the country with varying needs. This blog post shares my best advice for picking the perfect family photography package for you.

The Art of Storytelling with Mixed Media

My goal as a family photographer is always to document people at their most comfortable and authentic. Photography isn’t about perfect poses or creating the illusion of prim and proper children. It’s about creating art that reflects life as you remember it. I’m talking belly laughs and cartwheels, sprinkler splashes and ice cream cones. Photography freezes those perfectly imperfect moments for you to hold onto always.

So ask yourself: What do you want to remember? And what’s the best way to document that? 

I’m always a stan for multimedia storytelling. For me, that means a mix of film and digital photography and Super 8. Here’s how each contributes to telling a more complete story for your family.

Film Photography

Analog film is instant nostalgia (like, literally instant when it comes to Polaroids). It’s incredible because it captures moments that can’t be replicated exactly as they are. It’s raw and breathtaking. Even the “imperfections” make you feel in a way that’s so unique. Film photos give you that sense of looking through old family albums and reliving the moments in each image..

Digital Photography

Digital photography allows for more clicks and more chances to catch those unexpected moments. After your session, I take some time to edit photos. My goal is never to change moments but to enhance them to tell your story better. If you want clean, crisp images and a fast-paced session, digital photography is a good tool for our toolkit.

Super 8 Video

Honestly, I don’t know if a family photography package is ever fully complete without Super 8. This form of video gives you that golden combination of movement, nostalgia, and art. It’s just dreamy. You’ll want to watch it over and over again.

You can see the Super 8 video from this family session at Ebey’s Landing here.

The Perfect Family Photography Package

Now your brain’s probably turning with all kinds of considerations. I have three family photography packages that can help you turn your family’s story into art.

Mixed Media Session with Super 8

During this session, I use a roll of Super 8 film for 2 minutes of analog video footage. For photos, I use three rolls of film, one pack of Instant Polaroid film, and digital cameras to document your family’s real life magic moments. This package really captures every side of an afternoon in your life.

Cost: $1500

Film Photo Session

In this session, we take a fully analog approach to creating still images. You’ll want to start an old school album with nostalgic photos, and your family will thank you for it.

Cost: $750

Digital Photo Session

If you opt for a fully digital session, I focus on the candid, in-between moments. Those are the ones that are the most honest, connection-filled images after all.

Cost: $500

Would you like me to photograph your family? I’m a Seattle film photographer ready to travel! Inquire with me here.  

Plan Your Virtual Photoshoot Magic

A virtual photoshoot is a perfect way to create magic with a photographer you love regardless of location. You can create the photo session of your dreams anywhere in the world through your phone. As a Seattle photographer, I’ve worked with clients from Hawaii to Spain to document incredible everyday moments and dreamy vacation vibes. We can work together even if we’re not together. How cool is that? 

In this post, I walk you through everything you’ll love about a virtual photoshoot. Plus I share tips on making the most of your virtual photo experience.

What You Need for a Virtual Photoshoot

You might think a virtual photoshoot requires a lot from you. Since your photographer isn’t physically present, do you need to do a lot of the work they would do in a conventional session? Not really. In fact, all you need for a virtual session is:

• An internet connection

• A phone with a fully charged battery and plenty of storage (4gb + is ideal)

• An app (typically Clos or Shutter)

• A tripod

• An open mind

It also helps to have a sense of where you’ll be photographing. Watch how the light moves around your home, and try to book at a time of day when it’s doing interesting things! 

Other than that, you don’t need much technical know-how. This is a simple process for individuals, romantic partners, and families.

What to Expect at Your Session

From your perspective as the client, a virtual photoshoot couldn’t be easier. You download the app, set up your tripod, and video chat with your photographer. Your photographer takes hi-res photos. 

One perk of a virtual photoshoot is that clients sometimes find it easier to relax in front of a phone screen than camera lens. You get to be cozy in your intimate space with me gently guiding you on positioning the tripod and prompting you to interact with each other. I specialize in documenting life like you remember it - organic and unfiltered. My sessions don’t involve complicated posing that takes you out of the moment. 

Why You’ll Love the Experience

With virtual photoshoots, you can take your favorite photographer anywhere in the world (where there’s internet access, anyway). I’ve photographed a family on the beach in Hawaii and a couple on a boat in Spain. As cool as those adventures are, I also value the quiet, intimate moments when I get to document people at home with their loved ones. 

I love the ability to have an intimate look into people’s lives through their phones. We’re all so connected to our cell phones, and this is a fun way to break the normal daily cycle. You’re bound to learn something new about your phone, yourself, and your home/location through a new point of view. I genuinely love being an art director by providing virtual guidance in these sessions.

Want to book a virtual photoshoot with me? Whether you’re documenting the art of everyday life or celebrating your dream vacation, I’m down to help you turn it into art! Inquire with me here.

Intimate Seattle Courthouse Wedding with Super8

Zoe and Nate are just about the SWEETEST humans you will meet. Their Seattle courthouse wedding featured rad views of the city and cool photos and video captured on mixed media. This intimate wedding is a perfect example of the full experience you can create in a small time frame.

A Seattle Courthouse Wedding

Seattle courthouse weddings are getting more popular by the day. It’s easy to understand why. It’s very affordable, and the courthouse and location are dreamy. The waiting area is a viewpoint and has incredible indoor lighting. If the weather is good, you can have your ceremony on the rooftop with an incredible view of Seattle and the bay.

Zoe and Nate’s two best friends joined them for the ceremony. (The Seattle Municipal Court has a strict eight-person limit for weddings.) The rest of the group waited downstairs and formed a decent crowd outside the building. Initially, Zoe and Nate thought maybe ten friends would make the trip up from Texas for their elopement, but almost forty people ended up coming. Their entire group of family and friends was so warm. It was exactly what you’d want an elopement to be.

Documenting the Day on Mixed Media

For Zoe and Nate’s Seattle courthouse wedding, I used a mix of analog film, GFX digital, and Super8. This mix really captured the ease and intimacy of the day. It also suited the setting. A courthouse elopement has a vibe of instant nostalgia. Their reception venue, a combination art gallery and dive bar called Vermillion, also had a kitschy aesthetic that worked with film and Super8.

You’d never know it from looking at these photos and Super8, but Zoe and Nate only booked me for two hours of coverage. In that timeframe, we were able to create a huge variety of portraits and candid moments to tell the full story of their wedding day. If you’re eloping or having a micro wedding with a flexible timeline, you can create so much magic in a short amount of time!

Would you like me to photograph your Seattle courthouse wedding? I’ll document life like you remember it. Reach out to me here!

7 Creative Location Ideas for Family Photos in Seattle

The spot you choose for family photos can shape your experience. As a lifestyle photographer, I always recommend people choose places where they feel comfortable. The best photos portray those in-between moments when you and your family are just enjoying each other’s company. Check out these creative location ideas for family photos in Seattle!

7 LOCATION IDEAS FOR FAMILY PHOTOS IN SEATTLE

1. GOLDEN GARDENS PARK

This park stretches the shoreline in Ballard. You get stunning views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains from the beach and hiking trails. Most areas of the park are dog friendly too! If your ideas for family photos include your fur babies, Golden Gardens Park is a great spot.

2. DISCOVERY PARK

For a location that gives you stunning Pacific Northwest nature, check out Discovery Park. Located directly across the water from Bainbridge Island, Discovery Park includes miles of hiking trails and beaches. There’s even a historic lighthouse!

3. GASWORKS PARK

Gas Works Park is located in the Northlake neighborhood. It gives a cool mix of city views and rolling hills. As you might have guessed from the name, this park is a repurposed industrial site. The city has done a great job of making it a fun place to explore.

4. MT. BAKER BEACH AT LAKE WASHINGTON

Looking for a way to help your kids relax at your session? Why not include a swim in your ideas for family photos? Mount Baker Beach is a magical place to splash around for photos with serious summer vibes.

I’m obsessed with sessions at Lake Washington thanks to these family photos!

5. STAN SAYRES MEMORIAL PARK AND BOAT LAUNCH

This park and boat launch offers a different take on waterside family photos. It’s a fun place to visit year round. Are you thinking about a lifestyle session on your family’s boat? I’m in! 

6. RAVENNA PARK

Ravenna Park offers a more woodsy experience with fern-lined trails and mossy hillsides. The park is only a half mile across, so it’s more manageable than some of the larger parks for sessions with small children. Ravenna Park is always a safe bet for relaxed, nature-filled photos.

7. PIONEER SQUARE AND DOWNTOWN SEATTLE

If none of these nature-y ideas for family photos appeal to you, there’s always Pioneer Square and Downtown Seattle! You get gorgeous tree-lined streets, beautiful architecture, and shops and cafes you can pop into. Sometimes an afternoon on the town is just what your family needs for those magic moments to unfold.

Would you like me to take your family photos? I’m a Seattle photographer who captures the in-betweens on film and Super8. Reach out to me here!

Beautiful Christianson’s Nursery Wedding

Christianson’s Nursery is a gorgeous wedding venue in Mount Vernon, WA. Its historic buildings and lush gardens make your wedding feel like a world apart. Check out these artistic photos from Talis and Tim’s beautiful Christianson’s Nursery wedding.

A Christianson’s Nursery Wedding

Christianson’s Nursery started as what it sounds like - a plant store selling shrubs, roses, fruit trees, and other rad additions to your garden. It’s not the crowded greenhouse you might expect, though. The nursery sits on a large site with several nineteenth century buildings, including an old school house. Walking through the grounds feels like you’re in a village, not a store. The huge rose bushes and hydrangeas splash bright colors against the moody Pacific Northwest landscape. In short, it’s magic.

Photographing a Christianson’s Nursery wedding is always a dope experience. There are SO many places to take artistic portraits. You could explore the greenhouse and gardens for hours. Even the getting ready suite is in a beautifully decorated cottage with vintage-inspired furniture. 

This venue just started hosting weddings a few years ago, but it’s well-equipped with everything you could need. There are two getting ready suites, plenty of ceremony and reception spaces to choose from, and even furniture. Average packages range between $2,000 and $3,000 for 100 guests.

Talis and Tim’s Artistic Wedding Photos 

When Talis and Tim approached me about wedding photography, they shared that they’re both artists. Tim is a woodworker, and Talis paints with watercolors. It’s always such an honor working with other artists to creatively document this once-in-a-lifetime moment. 

In their inquiry, Talis said: “Tim and I are not traditional people, so we don’t need traditional wedding photos- but we do want photos that both reflect who we are and still have an elegant/artistic flare.”

I think we managed to find that balance between nontraditional and elegant in these wedding photos! Talis and Tim were down for a mix of light posing and candid photos. The combination portrays their artsy sides as well as their humor. They spent so much time laughing and just loving being in the moment with their people. 

Would you like me to photograph your Christianson’s Nursery wedding? I’m a Seattle wedding photographer specializing in film and Super8. Let’s make magic! 

5 Portland Wedding Venues You’ll be Obsessed With

If you’re looking for a Portland wedding venue that will give you a really unique experience, you’ve landed in the right spot. This short list includes dreamy venues that avoid that generic “wedding” feel. Check them out!

5 Rad Portland Wedding Venues

1. Opal 28

Opal 28 is great for small weddings. The flexible space has minimalist decor which makes it easy to define your unique wedding aesthetic. One perk of this venue is that several short-term rentals are available on the upper floors. You can get ready, host your wedding, and stay the night all in one spot. Packages range from $2,800-$4,700 depending on the day and season. 

2. Castaway

Castaway is a former industrial space. At 10,000 square feet, it can accommodate all of your favorite people. This Portland wedding venue is bright and welcoming with warm wood details that set it apart from other industrial wedding venues. Packages at Castaway Portland start at $1500.

3. Cooper’s Hall

Want an indoor/outdoor venue with incredible drinks? Cooper's Hall is a small wedding venue in Portland that offers a winery wedding experience in the city. The main location in SE Portland can accommodate weddings of up to 225 guests standing, while the NE Portland location can host up to 100 guests. A wall of windows makes Cooper’s Hall surprisingly bright. Your guests will love mingling between walls of wine barrels.

4. Hoyt Arboretum

Hoyt Arboretum is perfect for anyone who wants to put the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest at the front and center of their wedding day. It’s so lush with huge ferns and towering trees. With 190 acres, there are so many places to take magical misty portraits. The arboretum has five separate locations that you can rent for your wedding, so there are lots of chances to create the wedding experience you want.

5. Portland Art Museum

Portland Art Museum is the perfect Portland wedding venue for nontraditional marriers. It’s colorful and modern. You can have a ceremony in the sculpture garden then head into one of the ballrooms for a reception with lighting that will make everyone excited to party. Wedding rental packages at the Portland Art Museum start around $5,000.

Would you like me to be your Portland wedding photographer? I’ll artfully document your day on film and Super8. Let’s connect!

A Portland Wedding Photographer at Backyard Social

As a Portland wedding photographer, I live for intimate weddings that feel like the couple getting married. Kelly and Nick are thoughtful people who really value relaxing in their home with their closest people. Their backyard wedding and reception at their favorite bar was the perfect way to celebrate their relationship. 

A Candid Portland Wedding Photographer

Kelly and Nick’s wedding was exactly the kind of intimate celebration that works so well with my photography style. I focus on candid, unposed moments so that you end up with photos that feel like that moment. For their backyard wedding ceremony, Kelly and Nick skipped the first look and family formals. Instead, they wanted organic moments throughout the day. They quite literally had organic foliage and food, and their day was filled with great moments.

I also love that Kelly and Nick got married in their backyard. They wanted to buy a home before getting married, which is why their backyard ceremony was extra meaningful for them. As a Portland wedding photographer, I love documenting people in the places that mean the most to them.

A Laid-back Wedding Reception at Backyard Social

Nick and Kelly didn’t just get married in their backyard. They had their reception at their favorite bar down the road! First, though, we headed to the Dog Bowl. This is seriously a hidden gem in Portland. We got such organic, nature-filled portraits of the Kelly and Nick in their post-ceremony glow.

Once we got to Backyard Social, the party really kicked off. This bar serves charcuterie boards to burgers and everything in between. It was the perfect vibe for Nick and Kelly’s relaxed wedding celebration.

Would you like me to be your Portland wedding photographer? I can’t wait to document your day with art that imitates life. Reach out to me here!

Thanks to the vendors who contributed to this rad wedding:

Photographer: Sara Welch Photo 

Florist: Alana at Amarie Flora

Reception Venue and Catering: Backyard Social 

The Seattle Photography Studio You’ve Been Looking For

Do you want a roomy Seattle photography studio for your next jaw dropping session? Check out this beautiful studio located in Mount Vernon. It has everything you need in a flexible space.

Seattle Photography Studio Features

This studio is a dream because it’s so flexible. The space is open concept with high neutral walls. A wide window lets in plenty of sunlight, but you can close the shades easily if artificial light/privacy is your thing. That means you can achieve an airy lifestyle vibe or a more editorial look.

The studio comes with mid century modern furniture and a bathroom. There’s also a kitchenette stocked with drinks. It’s an easy place to make your clients feel at home.

Ways to Use the Studio

Engagement and Couples Sessions

A studio is a great place to burn the rule book and create something really unique in your couples sessions. Play with props, posing, and lighting. You have an incomparable level of control to make your vision a reality.

Maternity

Taking maternity photos in a studio give you the chance to get really creative and do something more modern. Check out these artistic studio maternity photos for an example.

Family Photography

Family photography in a studio can still have lifestyle vibes. I provide furniture to create a minimalist but cozy environment to document candid moments and posed portraits.

Branding Photos

You can really make this studio your own by bringing in on-brand props and lighting. One of the amazing things about having such a bright, minimalist, wide-open space is that you can transform it just about any way you can imagine.

Other Ways to Use the Seattle Photography Studio

Creative entrepreneurs and businesses use the studio for just about anything you can imagine including:

• Boudoir photography

• Holiday parties

• Work meetings

• Art walks

• Pop Ups 

• Launch parties 

• Photography events

• Productions 

Photographing in Mt. Vernon

Advantages of This Location

There are a lot of reasons that this Seattle photography studio is worth the drive to Mt. Vernon. The studio is located right off the highway and, since it’s outside the city, there’s actually plenty of free parking. It’s so spacious and affordable compared to studios in the city too. 

Things to Do Nearby

Mt. Vernon is a cool town with a lot of fun places to visit while you’re out here for your session. There’s great food, shopping, and outdoor activities. Here are a few of my favorite tops:

• Skagit Valley Food Co-op has great groceries and snacks.

• The Calico Cupboard serves delicious food and sweet treats.

• ElSage Designs carries really unique clothes and home goods. It’s a great place to pick up presents.

• Perry and Carlson is an art gallery and boutique.

For local festivals and events, check out this calendar.

Ways to Book This Seattle Photography Studio

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to book your session. You can book through my Peerspace listing here. If you’d prefer, email me directly at hello@sarawelchphoto.com. I can’t wait to see what you create in the studio! 

6 Magical San Juan Islands Wedding Venues

When it comes to the Pacific Northwest, the San Juan Islands are iconic. The cluster of islands north of Seattle is full of spots that balance the appeal of the wilderness with cozy, well-designed accommodations. These are some of my favorite venues in the area. You’re sure to find a San Juan Islands wedding venue to create an unforgettable celebration. 

6 San Juan Islands Wedding Venues

1. Schooner Zodiac and Sucia Island  

I was lucky enough to photograph a wedding that included sailing on the Schooner Zodiac and overnight anchorage on Sucia Island. This is just about the most magical take on a San Juan Islands wedding venue that you can imagine. Schooner Zodiac makes a wedding weekend surprisingly easy with accommodations and food included in rates for up to 26 passengers. Imagine taking your closest people to a remote island for a seaside ceremony then having dinner below deck. Seriously, I can’t wait to photograph Schooner Zodiac again!

2. Roche Harbor Resort

Located near Friday Harbor, Roche Harbor is a well-established resort that includes a hotel, cottages, and several restaurants. If you want an all-inclusive venue, take a look at Roche Harbor. It has multiple outdoor ceremony locations in the gardens For a San Juan Islands wedding venue, it’s on the larger side with a capacity of up to 250 guests.

3. Rosario Resort

Rosario Resort is on Orcas Island. The views are absolutely stunning. Green islands rise out of the blue ocean all around. It’s an immersive experience that your guests won’t forget. The elegant historic interiors are incredible too. I like Rosario Resort so much that I got married there too!

4. Tucker House Inn

Tucker House Inn is one of the more convenient San Juan Islands wedding venues. They specialize in elopements and intimate weddings. Most wedding ceremonies take place under the willow tree beside Tucker House Inn, and the sweeping branches add so much romance. This venue is also near America Camp, a scenic historic site run by the National Park Service. It’s a great spot for portraits.

5. Chateau Nighthawk

 A lot of venues in this area are seaside. For forest vibes, head up to Chateau Nighthawk. It’s located near the top of the highest mountain on Orcas Island. It’s essentially a 6-bedroom short term rental, so you get a lot of privacy compared to traditional venues. 

6. Lime Kiln State Park

Lime Kiln State Park is a good San Juan Islands wedding venue for folks who want to DIY a little more or have a more rugged experience. The park is famous for two things: its historic lighthouse and great whale watching. You will definitely get some iconic Pacific Northwest wedding portraits here. 

Would you like me to photograph your wedding in the San Juan Islands? I’m a Seattle wedding photographer ready to turn your memories into art. Reach out to me here!

Lairmont Manor: A Historic Bellingham Wedding Venue

Are you looking for a Bellingham wedding venue that has unique historic details but still feels unique? Lairmont Manor is a beautiful venue with a rich history, cool architecture, and gorgeous gardens. Check out Riley and Kali’s fall wedding held here.

A Historic Bellingham Wedding Venue with Titanic Vibes

Lairmont Manor is full of elaborate architectural details, rich woodwork, and chandeliers that reminded Riley and Kali of the Titanic. It was exactly what they wanted for their Bellingham wedding venue. Standing in one of the grand sitting rooms beside the towering windows feels like you’ve stepped back in time.

The property includes over 25 rooms and beautiful gardens with bubbling fountains. Outdoor ceremonies and receptions can accommodate up to 200 guests as opposed to 125 indoors, but trust me when I say you don’t want to miss these cool interiors. It costs anywhere between $2,000 and $7,200 to get married at Lairmont Manor. During peak wedding season, this Bellingham wedding venue costs around $7,000 on weekends.

As a Bellingham wedding venue, Lairmont Manor’s history is unique. The huge Italian-inspired home was built in 1914 for the Larrabbee family. The family matriarch, Frances, was a widow who raised her children alone while thriving in her community. She ran social clubs, philanthropic committees, and efforts for civic improvement among many other pursuits. After she passed, Lairmont Manor housed a nursing school. The Douglas family purchased it in the 1960s. Now proceeds from events (like weddings!) support the maintenance of the property as well as cultural programming held there.

Riley and Kali’s Sentimental Wedding

Everything about Kali and Riley’s celebration at this Bellingham wedding venue was intentional and true to them. They chose their first dance song, “Chateau Lobby #4” by Father John Misty, because it reminds them of the early days of their relationship. Even their engagement session was sentimental. We did it in the garden of the home where Riley grew up. It was so fun and refreshing to be let into their world to document these incredible moments.

When Riley first inquired with me, he said that they wanted mostly film wedding photography with a little digital mixed in. He added that he was “very very interested in candid photos of the two of us just enjoying our big day, both together and with our friends and family." That all tracks for a cool, nostalgic couple like Riley and Kali. They were both SUPER happy with the way the photos came out. 

Would you like to see more Bellingham weddings? Check out this intimate backyard wedding and this wedding on film and Super 8!

Thank you to the vendors who helped make Kali and Riley’s wedding so special:

Venue: Lairmont Manor 

Florist: Newbury Bay 

Dress: Blue Sky Bridal in Seattle, WA 

Suit: Banana Republic

Cake and other Desserts: Antler Baking Company

Riley's ring: Family heirloom

Kali's ring: HemetJewelry 

Artsy Studio Maternity Photos

Studio maternity photos are the perfect way to document a unique time in your life in a modern, artistic way. Megan’s session shows that maternity photos can be creative, cool, and moving.

3 Reasons to Get Studio Maternity Photos

For this session, Megan joined me in my Mount Vernon studio. There are so many reasons to do a maternity session in a studio instead of outside or even at home. Here a few of the biggest.

1. Control Over Conditions

Where you’re outdoors or in your home, there’s so much that’s beyond our control. For one, rain, heat waves, or unexpected cold can make everything harder. In the studio, I can control the heat and AC to accommodate you any time of year.

My studio also has incredible lighting that isn’t dependent on fickle weather. For natural light, the studio gets south light, which is nice all day. I also have a wall of windows. The shadows that dance around are magic.

2. A Modern Feel

A studio can be great for someone who wants to put a modern spin on traditional portraits. There’s a lot of value to documenting this time in your life in a space like this, and you can do it in a way that’s fresh and sophisticated.

3. Convenience and Comfort

A lot of little things are just easier with studio maternity photos. At my Mount Vernon studio just off the freeway, we have about three parking lots full of spaces. It’s also homey without worrying about prepping your actual house for photos. (Who has energy for that at that point in baby prep, anyway?) I also have a cool collection of furniture and props we can use. 

Megan’s Artsy Maternity Session

Megan’s session is a perfect example of how studio maternity photos can be artistic and cool. Forget those over-the-top photos of gauzy dresses billowing around people in dramatic poses. Megan wanted to play with light and shadow as well as black and white images. I loved the chance to get creative and play around as an artist!

A lot of people schedule their maternity photos for their third trimester. Megan happened to be in town visiting her parents during her second trimester, so we scheduled this session to honor her and document what a badass she is. Since Megan and I have known each other since elementary school, it was surreal and amazing to be part of this experience for her.

Would you like me to document your studio maternity photos? I’m a Seattle film photographer ready to create art that imitates life. Inquire with me here!

Documentary Family Photography: Creating Your Family Archive

One of the joys of being a Seattle family photographer is that I get to document clients over years of growth and change. I’ve been lucky to photograph Vanessa’s family at their Vashon Island farm for five years now. Their photos are a perfect example of how documentary family photography can create an archive of magical, unfiltered moments.

Why Documentary Family Photography Hits Different

Documentary family photography isn’t the trip to JC Penny you might have taken with your family when you were a kid. This style aims to document your family as you really are. It prioritizes real moments over glamorous poses, creativity over convention. Here are five reasons why documentary family photography hits different.

1. It’s a better look into your family’s real narrative.

Your family’s story is so much deeper than a moment that everyone is standing still and looking at the camera. The beautiful, chaotic in betweens are the heart of your story. Your photos should reflect that. 

2. You can create your family archive.

In the age of social media, it’s easy to forget that photos are forever. They’re how we pass our story from one generation to the next. Documentary family photography helps you do that with that perfect combination of honesty and creativity.

3. It documents children’s alchemy from a unique perspective.

Let’s face it. Kids’ magic lies in the unpredictable moments. They say or do something that you never in a million years could have expected, and you love them for it. This style of photography embraces that. 

4. This style embraces real life, not fake and forced poses.

Real life isn’t always pretty, but it’s true. Sometimes your kids are a blur running through a field at blue hour. Sometimes they’re a pile of cuddles. It’s not about striking the perfect pose. It’s about documenting tender and joyful moments.

5. It mixes art with the freedom to be yourself in your photos.

Documentary photography is an art. It lets you be yourself while using light, color, and movement to tell your story. 

Creating Vanessa’s Family Archive

Like I said before, I’ve photographed Vanessa and her family for years. I love visiting them at their farm on Vashon Island across the water from Seattle. These kids live the life with everything they could dream of on that farm. They also always send me home with treats from the farm - apples, eggs, homemade bread, you name it! 

Since I’ve photographed this family for years, their photos show how we’ve grown alongside each other. We’ve also gotten really good at doing their sessions fast. Photo sessions never last more than an hour or so. Documentary family photography can be incredible without being an all-day commitment.

Our fourth session included a Super 8 film. I’m obsessed with how it turned out.

Would you like me to work with me for your documentary family photography? Let’s embrace real life with candid photos you’ll cherish. Reach out to me here!

Portland Family Photographer: A Candid Slice of Life

As a Portland family photographer, I view my role as preserving your life in art. A session like this is the perfect way to do that. I used photo and Super 8 to document a candid slice of life for Jan, Nola, and Stella.

A Portland Family Photographer for Nola, Jan, and Stella

When Jan and Nola decided to move, they reached out to me to document one of their last weekends in Portland on photo and Super 8. I love working with families to commemorate a meaningful moment like this. In fact, I did the same for another family in Seattle. You can check out that session here. 

Nola is also a photographer. It’s always such a compliment to photograph another artist. These photos show so many sides of her. She’s the cool mom, the artsy mom, the baker mom. She’s self-aware, and everything she touches turns to gold. That includes the family she’s built with Jan, one of the raddest people I’ve met. 

Celebrating Life Unfiltered in Photo and Super 8

This session was the dream for a Portland family photographer. I met Nola, Jan, and Stella at their house. It was disheveled and full of packing boxes in preparation for their move, and it was perfect. We could preserve the chaotic, beautiful truth of this moment. We walked their favorite paths around the neighborhood and hung out in the yard. Everyone was so at ease that I felt like I could document their life authentically.

Nola and Jan opted to include Super 8 in their family session. As a Portland family photographer, this is one of my favorite mediums to work with. It’s emotional and real. Super 8 has a lot of vintage appeal because it looks like old school home videos. It’s also really unique and different from the digital video we see all the time. Check out Jan, Nola, and Stella’s Super 8 film below.

Would you like me to be your Portland family photographer? Let’s create art that imitates your life. Reach out to me here!

A Rad Whidbey Island Wedding Venue

Whidbey Island is known for its rugged Western beauty. Think steep hills leading to quiet beaches and dark fir trees shading sleek cabins. Captain Whidbey was a dope Whidbey Island wedding venue for Nancy and Sebastian’s simple and deeply meaningful celebration.

Captain Whidbey: A Rad Whidbey Island Wedding Venue

Captain Whidbey is a hotel tucked into the fir forest overlooking the water at Whidbey Island. Modern cabins sit under the trees. Shiplap walls, warm natural wood, and gingham curtains make the interiors inviting. This seaside hotel feels like the Pacific Northwest with its mix of dark colors and unbelievable views. Captain Whidbey even ties in a artisanal food experience with food grown in their garden.

As a Whidbey Island wedding venue, Captain Whidbey can host anything from elopements to celebrations of 120 guests. Packages in peak season start at $6000. If you want to get ready and take portraits at Captain Whidbey without holding your ceremony there, you can exchange vows at Ebey’s Landing or one of the other incredible parks on the island. Captain Whidbey is Ebey’s Landing’s unofficial lodge, and it’s easy to enjoy the reserve’s rugged beauty while staying at the hotel.

Whidbey Island is the perfect setting for a wedding with a mix of intimacy and adventure. You don’t have to do strenuous hikes to enjoy the sense of wilderness. It's a romantic and exciting place, one that feels unfiltered and real. You can drive to Whidbey Island, but if you really want to get the full experience, try taking the Clinton Ferry or Coupeville Ferry from the mainland. 

Simplicity and Flow for a Meaningful Celebration

Nancy and Sebastian express their deep, mushy gushy love in simple but moving ways. When they got engaged, they quietly exchanged rings at a Brooklyn park. Nancy called it “one of the more meaningful things I’ve experienced.” Each small moment held meaning for them. They wanted their wedding to have the same feeling but with a handful of friends and family to bear witness.

If I had to pick two words to describe Nancy and Sebastian’s celebration at their Whidbey Island wedding venue, it would be simplicity and flow. They pared down the details to the things that really mattered. Then they got their planning done early so they could sit back and enjoy the raw emotions of the moment. Everything flowed with uncomplicated beauty.

On the morning of their wedding, Nancy and Sebastian got ready together in their cabin at Captain Whidbey. They took some time just the two of them on the beach to explore and soak up the moment. The images from this part of the day give you the sense that their whole life together will be full of quiet, meaningful mornings. 

Afterward, Sebastian and Nancy met up with family members on the beach near Captain Whidbey for their ceremony. Sebastian’s father traveled from Colombia to co-officiate the ceremony with Nancy’s sister. The ceremony was exactly what Nancy envisioned in their inquiry: modern, intimate, rooted in their closest relationships.

Captain Whidbey was the perfect Whidbey Island wedding venue for this celebration. It was the right combination of cozy and elegant with easy access to quiet stretches of beach. I feel so lucky that Sebastian and Nancy chose me to document their tender, authentic day.

Would you like me to photograph your wedding? I’m a Seattle wedding photographer specializing in candid film images and Super 8 video. Let’s connect!

Why Film Wedding Photography is So Dope

Film wedding photography is such a dope addition to your wedding coverage. The photos are artistic and emotional on a level that digital just can’t achieve. In this post, I share what you should know about adding film to your wedding photography package and what to look for in a film wedding photographer. 

Film Wedding Photography: Nostalgic Artistry

Film is for marriers who want to blur the lines between modern life and vintage nostalgia at their wedding. It’s for people who value the artistry wedding photography can reveal in our lives. There’s something both cozy and breathtaking about wedding photos on film, especially when you print them out and hold them in your hands.

As a film wedding photographer, I love the multidisciplinary act of working with a modern $5,000 camera and a vintage camera for $500 from the early 1990’s. I’m able to capture so much of the feeling of a wedding day with these different tools. It gives that mix of emotions and images that show life like you remember it.

I also have to be really intentional about using each photo on the roll. Limiting frames to 36 per roll rather than infinite clicks of a digital camera encourages me to prioritize what matters to my clients.

What You Should Know for Your Wedding

There are some less obvious differences between digital and film wedding photography that affect your experience. Here’s what you should know about having film coverage for your wedding:

1. It’s an art.

Yes, digital photography can be artistic, but film photography really gets back to the roots of this art form. It’s less about precision and more about raw emotion.

2. You don’t get instant gratification (unless it’s Polaroid).

Digital wedding photographers can just upload their files to their computers and jump into editing. With film wedding photography, your photographer has to mail in the film and wait for the digital scans to come in. (I love Photovision for developing film.)

3. There’s less editing to slow down the delivery timeline.

Even though you have to wait for film scans to come in, the lack of editing means your overall timeline for delivery could be shorter.

4. Film wedding photography is unique and can’t be duplicated.

Film lends itself to documenting candid moments. Sometimes “imperfections” like light leaks and solar flares create the coolest images that no one could have planned. It’s a whole vibe.

Finding Your Film Wedding Photographer

When you choose a wedding photographer to document your day on film, make sure they have experience. You deserve someone who understands film wedding photography as well as they do digital. That requires a more technical understanding of their equipment (because you can’t edit out mistakes in post). 

I’m a multidisciplinary photographer who understands how to use any camera I touch. That expertise means my clients get slices of life on film, not just posed portraits. Would you like me to photograph your wedding? Inquire with me here!

Groovy Seattle Wedding Videography with Mixed Media

When you first start looking for Seattle wedding videography, you might think you have to pick between digital and film. The truth is, you don’t! You can mix and match Super 8 film, camcorders, and digital to create a video that feels like you in this moment of life. If those slow-motion, posed videos feel cheesy and fake to you, work with a videographer who will switch it up. I’ll show you how you can have a wedding video that’s authentic to you by mixing media.

Options for Seattle Wedding Videography

You’re probably most familiar with highly produced digital wedding videos. If you want a more authentic way to tell your wedding story, it’s totally possible. Sometimes it starts with picking the right medium. There are so many tools to choose from to make your wedding video vibey and true to you. Here are some of the tools I use for Seattle wedding videography.

4k Digital

4k is the format most people are familiar with these days. It’s good for faster-paced moments and capturing very crisp, colorful footage. People who want traditional audio (think vows over a montage of lovey dovey moments) often prefer 4K digital video.

A Vintage Camcorder

Do you want your wedding video to feel more like a home movie? Adding a camcorder will give you those soft-around-the-edges nostalgic moments. It’s not as modern-looking as 4K but not as old-school as Super 8 either. It’s got that colorful, raw 90’s energy.

Super 8

This 8mm film system was invented in the 1960s. Kodak designed it for amateur videographers. Read: home videos. It really made home videos accessible to way more people than any technology had previously. Picture the opening credits of The Wonder Years. The warm, dreamy footage is my absolute favorite addition to a wedding video. You can feel it on a whole different level.

Wedding Videography You’ll Be Obsessed With

I’ll be real with you. Super 8 is my absolute favorite way to document a wedding (in addition to film photography). I love it so much that I made a course for videographers who want to add it to their repertoire. Here are a few reasons why adding Super 8 to your Seattle wedding videography is a rad idea. 

Super8 will switch up your videography experience. You can spend more time in the moment with your people and less time standing in the best light. Super 8 isn’t meant for super-posed, over-dramatic moments. Instead of repeating candid gestures for your videographer, you get a combination of spontaneous moments documented with intention.

Super 8 is also tangible and real. Emotion radiates from Super 8 footage. Without complicated production, it feels genuine. You can imagine sitting down decades from now and sharing those big feels with the important people in your life.

Having an actual roll of film instead of a digital file on a computer is also cool as fuck. You have a legit home movie of your wedding. Nothing will get you more nostalgic than this soft footage with its neutral tones. You can really feel Super 8 films.

Things You Should Know about Choosing Super 8 for Your Wedding Videography

With any wedding coverage, it’s good to know what to expect going in. My goal is to make it easy for you to stay focused on the irreplaceable moments unfolding. Here’s what you should know about including Super 8 in your Seattle wedding videography

Super 8 looks how memories feel. It looks more like a dream than the clean, sterile footage you get with digital video. You won’t get every detail in hyper focus. Instead you’ll get art. The film’s imperfections are what give it that beautiful softness and inviting feeling. Super8 instantly adds artsy, romantic vibes to your wedding video.

There are other types of film video available, but Super 8 is less expensive than 16mm film. It’s a more accessible way to have a film wedding video. If you’re getting film wedding photography, Super 8 is the perfect match. It gives you a cohesive way of telling your story in stills and video.

Since most home movies up to the 1980s were shot on some form of 8mm, any 8mm film will be reminiscent of those old home movies. You’ll look at your wedding video and get nostalgic for the home movies you grew up around. Or you’ll start a new tradition.

Most importantly, Super 8 will make you feel some type of way about your Seattle wedding videography. It’s raw and magical. I can’t get enough of these videos. The ways candid smiles and interactions translate on 8mm film are incredible.

Mixing Media for Chris and Tara’s Wedding

Tara and Chris value their adaptability in their relationship. They said, "We communicate, and love in a mixture of ways, depending on our moods and phases of life." They wanted their wedding photos and video to feel the same - a mixture of styles and moods that they can come back to throughout life. I mixed the media to make that happen. 

When it came to choosing a format for their Seattle wedding videography, Tara and Chris had different preferences at first. Tara loves muted tones, while Chris prefers bright colors. I included Super 8 and camcorder footage as a nod to Tara’s love of earthy tones and making home videos as a kid. I included 4k footage to portray the faster-paced moments and get that vivid color that Chris likes. It was the perfect mix to tell Chris and Tara’s whole story.

I love that the media of a wedding video can reflect people’s personalities. Each type of video - 4k, camcorder, and Super 8 - reflects different vibes from different parts of the wedding day, too. This wedding video portrays the whole breadth of emotions and energy from Tara and Chris’s wedding. The vintage videography styles compliment the digital video in documenting their celebration. It was modern and unpretentious, elegant and focused on what matters most.

Your Seattle Wedding Videography 

Whatever medium you choose for your wedding videography, it should feel like you. Your wedding video is art that imitates life. If your wedding is going to be intimate and focused on connections, adding Super 8 is a great way to document that. Make sure you pick a Seattle videographer who is going to give you art intentionally tailored to you. You deserve a video as honest and unique as your relationship.

Would you like me to document your Seattle wedding videography? I would love to work with you. We’ll choose the perfect formats to capture those unfiltered, in-between moments. Your video will help you relive your wedding like you remember it.

 Book your Seattle wedding videography!

Thank you to the vendors who made Chris and Tara’s wedding so dope:
Videography: Sara Welch Photography
Dress: Sarah Seven
Jewelry: Perry and Carlson
Hair and Makeup: Done by Tara with products from Ilia and Chantecaille
Hair color: Lindsey at The Chill Blonde
Florist: Anne Long at The Dahlia House and Pretty Bitchin Blooms
Catering: Arbia Pizza
Cake and other desserts: DERU Market
Macaroons: Renee Chiang