Daniella & Robert :: Naval Academy Wedding, Annapolis

An Officer and a Gentleman would have been an appropriate title for this post. Daniella was the Rabbi at the US Naval Academy's Jewish Chapel, and Robert was the gentlemanly actuary from Britain with the widest smile and boundless affection for Daniella. As I looked back over the images from this wedding, I was struck by the joyousness of the whole day and Robert and Daniella's deep devotion to one another. Normally I like to mix in portraits and details in my posts, but I barely had room to post any because there were so many wonderful, genuine moments (my favorite!).

After the ceremony, we all walked to the Annapolis pier to board the Catherine Marie, where the party would ensue. Their friends and family helped create a celebration to remember. You have to scroll down to see what they did for the Hora! Enjoy! 

Getting ready in the bathroom with Commodore Uriah P. Levy looking on...

The day started off with a first sighting, which always provides some sweet moments...

Like this...

Then we were off for a few quick portraits...

The lobby of the Uriah P. Levy Center...

I shot this from above while Daniella was standing in a shaft of light.

Then the men and women were separated for their own celebrations.

The men ascend the stairs to the waiting bride...

Even though they had already seen each other, Daniella was overcome with emotion when she saw Robert for the Bedeken ceremony.

After the Ketubah signing, Robert showed off his newest accessory.

This might be one of my all-time favorite images. This was one of those times when I previsualized the shot and everything came together perfectly. It doesn't always work out, but when it does it's magical. I love the dramatic light, Daniella's reflection in the glass, and the sense of anticipation as she's about to walk down the aisle.

My assistant Elisha has been doing fabulous work this year. She grabbed this shot of Daniella entering the chapel.

While I took the angle from the floor. It's always nice having two shooters to capture different perspectives.

The Jewish Chapel is quite a unique place.

Who doesn't love a sword arch?

This shot makes me laugh every time. Usually the bride gets a gentle pat on the rear and a "Welcome to the Navy" after passing the last officer, but since Daniella is the Naval officer it was Robert who got the swat. I don't think he was expecting it! 

Our reception vessel, the Catherine Marie.

Their friends and family made sure this was a colorful, joyous celebration.

This was a first for me, but it was tons of fun!

Off to the roof for more dancing and entertainment...

Normally during the Hora, couples are afraid of bumping their heads on the ceiling. Here, I think Daniella was worried about ending up in the river.

The toasts were extraordinarily touching and heartfelt. Shot by Elisha...

Another of my favorite shots. How serendipitious for the groom to be giving his toast, and on the back of his notes is a list of Jewish films, one of which is named "Just Married."

A beautiful first dance shot from Elisha...

My version...

This is not the most technically perfect image (note my big honking shadow), but it was a wonderful real moment and a perfect ending.

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