What a day! I can honestly say that I feel like I have known Lauren & Brett forever. They are the kind of couple that you instantly click with. Lauren was one of my intimate session participants earlier this month, so I guess once you’ve been through an experience like that together, there’s pretty much no boundaries!

I love brides like Lauren. Right from when we first met over a year ago, she put so much importance on her photo’s, knowing too well that these are some of the only lasting memories you have after the day is over. She wanted to go to all of my favourite locations to shoot - Kangaroo Point, Captain Burke Park, Market Street, Eagle St Overpass, Restaurant II, Botanic Gardens, and the Stamford. A run sheet like this takes a very dedicated bride & groom, and bridal party. By about the second location, you’re gauranteed to be “over it”, and just dying to get back to the reception for a drink.

So our day kicked off very early at Brett’s house, to grab some informal shots of the boys hanging out at home. We then made our way over to Lauren and the girls who were holding up ok, despite Lauren being just a bit nervous. We were situated in the Samford Valley, and so far the weather had been ok, but some ominous clouds began forming over the mountains. We only had just enough time to run outside for some quick shots before some rain began to fall. We told ourselves it wouldn’t be raining in Brisbane. At least we hoped anyway.

Over at Broadway Chapel, the dark clouds had followed into the city. For a moment there, I did think that it was about to rain, but miraculously it held off. Lauren arrived, and made it safely into the chapel. We were safe for at least the next half hour.

The ceremony was beautiful. My favourite part was when Lauren gave Brett a hug when she took his hand at the end of the aisle. She was so happy to see him. By the time we emerged it seemed like the dark clouds had vanished, and it was now just perfectly overcast. I couldn’t have dreamed for better conditions!!

Then the chase began. First stop, Kangaroo Point cliffs. Notorious for being smack bang in direct sunlight, but not for us thanks to our cloud cover. We were the staring attraction for whole bunch of asian tourists who took a liking to our stunning blonde bride. You couldn’t really blame them.

Next, Captain Burke Park where we got our feet dirty, and the boys just had to be boys by turning the love heart Brett had so lovingly drawn for his wife into….well, you’ve seen the tv ad. Before too long it was back into the limo and across the bridge bound for Market Street. I have a soft spot for that location, as I first photographed that building for my best friends wedding two years ago. I love it when a couple ask to go there!

Once we were back around at the entrance to the Botanic Gardens, we were able to take it a bit easier and relax and have some fun. We probably came across at least 5 other bridal parties, but as per usual, we had the hottest bride (it’s written in my contract!!). Its a good thing the Red Bull girls were passing by to stock us up on supplies, because they had earnt it. All in all, this was a bridal party of 10, and larger groups usually have trouble staying focused, but they all did so well, and I’m so proud of the 110% effort they put in. (Wayne, sunglasses off the head please!!!)

But it wasn’t over yet. Once light died, we headed inside the Stamford for some more photo’s before FINALLY getting back over to the Rugby Club for the reception. And all this we fit in under 3 hours. 3 hours, and about 20GB of memory cards!!

My heartfelt thanks and admiration go to Lauren & Brett for their unwavering enthusiasm, and dedication to the cause. They never once complained, even though I know they were probably wishing they hadn’t chosen so many locations!! They have awesome everlasting memories as a result, which makes it all worthwhile. (And I’m not just saying this to score an invite to their housewarming!!). Thanks guys for letting Poo & I be a part of your day, and for making us feel a part of it as well! xx

And on to the anti-pictures…

You call that a camera???

Walking down Edward Street we ran into my favourite marriage celebrant, Mike Gordon. 

The boys enjoying the complimentary Red Bulls…

A Lauren sandwich…..

My best friend and her husband are expecting a little baby girl within the next month. I have affectionately named her Doris, although I’ve been told I can’t be “Aunty Toni” if I continue to call her that after she arrives!!

I went over to Kel’s house this afternoon to get some pictures of her while Matt was at work, as she wanted to suprise him with some nice portraits of her with her big round belly. (So nobody tell him!!)

I’ve known Kel since I was 12 years old, and I’ve never seen her so beautiful as she is now. I think pregnancy actually suits her, there is a warmth and radiance about her all the time, although she’ll tell you differently!

Here are a couple of my favourites…

Doris is meant to be joining us on or around the 29th of May, although I have a hunch it may be earlier. I just wish she would hurry up, because I’m dying to take photo’s of her!!

On this Anzac Day, I would like to share with you what is fast becomming my favourite song at the moment. Written and performed by the amazing talent that is Mr Mark Seymour, it’s called “Tobruk Pin”. It reminds me in some way of Anzac Day, and makes me cry every time I hear it. If you can get past the average film clip, its truly a beautiful song worth listening to.

Another sentimental favourite of mine is “What’s A Few Men?” also performed by Mr Mark Seymour when he fronted Hunters & Collectors. It definately makes you reflect at this special time of year.

Yes folks, its a three-peat weekend! I came very close to making myself unavailable for today, but when Kim first contacted me and asked me so nicely, how could I say no? I made sure she knew she would be my third bride in as many days, and as long as she was still happy with that, then I was happy. Turns out she was happy - and I’m so glad because today ROCKED!!!

Dusan is Serbian by descent, so today was filled with Serbian traditions and culture. Doing this job I love getting to be imersed in different backgrounds and cultures. I just find it so interesting to be a part of.

When I arrived at the house, I took one look at Kim, and told her how gorgeous she looked. Then I looked up and who should be standing behind her working on her, but the amazing Toula. No wonder!! Toula’s brides always always look breathtaking, she truly is one gifted and talented artist.

Dusan & Kim got ready at the same house, but were kept well away from eachother. Whilst Kim and the girls prepared for the day ahead, Dus was downstairs where the party was already beginning. Guests arrived to partake in a few drinks, the most scrumptious food you have EVER tasted, and be entertained by a band playing traditional Serbian music. The mood was so festive, you just wanted to get up and dance. I was having the best time, and we hadn’t even left the house!

Dusan’s groomsmen (or kum) arrived upstairs for the traditional buying of the bride. Kim’s Dad, Neil, drove a hard bargain, all the while extolling the virtues of his daughter. Apart from saying how beautiful she was, he was also heard to say “She cooks and she cleans”. It was all in the spirit of the tradition, and it was a lot of fun! Some Serbian dancing followed, which was so much fun to watch.

From here, Kim was escorted to the Serbian Orthodox Church where Dusan was awaiting, and they were married in a traditional ceremony. Outside the church there was some more dancing and we all gathered together for a group photo that I needed to hang out the window of the church to take!

Then it was over to the Botanic Gardens with the bridal party. These two are such a stunning pair, it was impossible to take a bad photo of them! After some more photos at the Stamford, we headed over to the Greek Club for the reception. If the festivities earlier in the day are anything to go by, the party tonight will certainly raise the roof!

There’s no rest for the wicked. Or so I’ve heard. Yet another gorgeous day, just perfect for Nathan & Liz’s wedding at Newstead House.

Now Liz is a self confessed control freak. It took some convincing to let her just relax and let everyone else take care of her day for her, but I can imagine as a bride that’s pretty hard to do! The girls got ready at the reasonably new Oaks Apartments on Margaret St, where we had use of the fabulous 30th floor penthouse for some photo’s. Too bad if you were afraid of heights! Incidentally the lifts in that place are probably the slowest in the history of lifts. I’ve half a mind to write a letter to Kone. Yes, I do have half a mind….

The boys looked pretty spiffy in their kilts, or skirts as I like to call them with those neat little purses hanging off the front. I’ve been told though to never actually say that in front of a real Scotsman. I have no idea why, but it could be fun to find out!

Now, the bride was 30 minutes late, due to an earlier incident with the boys forgetting their buttonholes. This is where I have to put on my tonisnell.com.au hat and stress the importance of brides being on time. Every minute a bride is late, is one more minute of light we don’t have for photos. Simple as that. Each minute adds up, so I ask for people to keep this in mind when unforseen events arise.

So it was a mad dash to get the formals done before we lost light completely. We did miss out on some vital photo taking time, but if anyone got to see me live up to being “The General” it was these guys. I cracked the whip and moved them quickly to make up for lost time, and they held up pretty well!

After leaving Newstead, we arrived over at Allan Border Field for the reception. Being a cricket fan, I enjoyed getting to be out of the field, and felt like quite the captain getting the bridal party to take their positions in the slips. We heard the sound of leather on willow as Liz took to the crease, only to be caught behind by Nathan. So it was back to the Pavillion for tea …..I mean the reception!!

There’s something about Friday weddings that throws my whole body clock out. I walk around thinking its Saturday, and that tomorrow is Sunday, not realising I have a whole weekend ahead of me!! 

It was a very local wedding for Sarah & Brent. The ceremony and reception were held at the North Lakes Golf Club, and Sarah’s parents live two doors down from the Golf Club! When Sarah arrived home we tucked into a feed of donuts, (generously sent by Brent!), and got the girls together for some formals. They were a laugh a minute. I usually pick a word for the day that is going to get a good response, these girls picked it for me, and it had them cracking up!

Across the road (literally) Brent wasn’t the calmest I’ve ever seen a groom, but he was managing. There were a few times I thought he was going to burst into tears on me, but he held it together. As I explained to him, one or two tears he can get away with. Any more, and it’s likely the boys will call him a girl.

The girls were so close by they walked to the ceremony. That’s where Sarah got to show off her fabulous red shoes, which I absolutely loved! Once the ceremony was over, we hit the course. I think Poo secretly loves doing weddings at golf clubs, because it means he gets to drive the cart around! Boys will be boys. Brent and Sarah were seasoned pro’s, and went to any length to please me. This includes Sarah lying down in a sand bunker. And she did it with a smile!!

Now, this was my first wedding at North Lakes, and possibly my last. I came in off the course looking like a lump fish. Ok, maybe I exaggerate, but I was seriously bitten something chronic out there that I can’t explain. I was covered in small lumps that present like mozzie bites all over my face, neck, chest, and forearms. And boy did they itch, and it has lasted the best part of 24 hours. But no one else was affected. And the weirdest thing is I also had them when I was out on a spotting mission with Brent and Sarah earlier in the week.  Maybe the place doesn’t like me.

Whatever was the case, Poo and I clicked our heels together 3 times, and headed off home to let everyone enjoy the party. 

And Poo doing what Poo does best…

I know. I have been a bad blogger. Since I got back from Gladstone I have been catching up on editing and albums and haven’t had a chance to blog the weekends wedding. The wait will be worth it, I promise. 

What can I say. I have been completely blown away by the amazing couple that is Greg & Anna.

After flying up from Brisbane Friday night, and a good nights sleep, we headed out in search of Anna and found her hanging out at the local hairdresser. Once her “do” was perfect we headed back to the motel. Things were very hectic, but we managed to fit in some time for few quick formals. I kept reminding Anna to be a bride, and not run around organising everything - let someone else do that!!

Once we got over to the boys at the church, Greg was doing well, albeit with a touch of pre-wedding nerves. Incidentally the church they were married in is brand new, and Father Michael informed us that this was the first wedding to be performed there!

I have never seen one couple so in love with eachother. Don’t get me wrong, I see people in love every weekend, and its beautiful. But these two have such an intense connection with eachother, that its so obvious even to a relative stranger like myself. During the final blessing in the church, they were just staring so intently at eachother, I don’t think they even blinked for a good 5 minutes, not once breaking their gaze from eachother. I was standing in the aisle, and it felt really surreal watching them. You felt it, you really felt it. There were also moments when we had them alone it was like they didn’t even know I was standing there with them. I had been completely zoned out, it was all about eachother.  

From the church we gathered the bridal party, and headed out to Canoe Point for the first formal session. Everyone was so fantastic, including my stunning bride. She even lay down in the sand for me. Now THAT is a Toni Snell bride!! I’ve never enjoyed photographing one bride so much. She seemed to know exactly what I wanted from her, without me even having to ask. We also got some quick photo’s in down at Wild Cattle Creek, before making our way back to the reception at Greg’s parents place.

At this point I’m usually finished for the day, but being away from home and having nowhere else to be, I stayed for the party!! It was such a beautiful setting, and the company was awesome. I truly felt like part of the family, and like I had known these people forever. A huge thankyou goes to Greg’s parents for their warmth and hospitality.

So on to the pics you came here for…..

Can you think of a better setting to have a reception?….

And now for the anti-wedding pics!!…

Anna being regal, and letting me do up her shoes…

I love my Dad. Do I say that enough? (Of course I love my Mum too, she’s just not in this photo!!!)…

Mum and Dad drove up earlier in the week in their 4WD “Humbie”, so this one is for my Dad…

I think this one is possibly my favourite…

Yes, I’ve photoshopped the hell out of myself in this one, but its my blog, and I make the rules….

The reception was awesome. So relaxed, and so homely. The food was fantastic, and everywhere you looked was just people having the best time. The boys were getting stuck into some shot rounds which was fun to shoot…

And then it was my turn….

Technically I was off the clock, so why not. Yes, this is not going to impress my mother…

After some gentle persuasion from some wedding guests, I took a selection of photo’s and displayed them on a slideshow on my laptop for people to watch. That’s the most nervewracking thing to do as a photographer, because you always want them to be well received. I’m glad I did because it was very rewarding, especially to see your client moved to tears upon seeing their photo’s for the first time. You can’t ask for much more than that…

Then it was self-portrait time…

And even after all that, these two still had that amazing chemistry going on…

Thankyou Greg & Anna. It was truly an honour to share in this amazing day with you.

Of the following destinations, can you guess where I am tonight????

No idea? I’ll give you a clue….

Well, Tannum Sands to be precise, just south of Gladstone. So why am I here? To shoot a wedding of course!

One might ask how a Brisbane photographer ends up in Tannum Sands to photograph a wedding. Easy. A client emails me and asks if I’ll cover a wedding up here. Hey, for a return airfare and accomodation I’d travel to the moon to shoot a wedding!! It’s not as dumb as you think, and many brides are wising up to the benefits of flying your own photographer in. Firstly, air travel within Australia has become so very affordable. Second of all, you get the photographer you want, and the style you want, which may not be available in the place you’re having your wedding.

My clients are an awesome young Brisbane couple, who are having their wedding up here to be closer to family. They couldn’t find a photographer they liked up here, so decided to find one in Brisbane they did like, and bring them up. Simple. 

What I didn’t let on is that I’m not the best flyer in the world. But you gotta do what you gotta do. I get a bit nervous in the air. Mostly I hear noises. And then I hear those noises stop and I think to myself “yep, we just lost an engine”. Worst of all, I keep seeing myself in one of those re-enactments from “Air Crash Investigation”. I love that show, but probably shouldn’t have watched it on Wednesday night.

I travel light. I only check in luggage on international flights. Within Australia, its cabin luggage all the way. I whack everything in one of those roll along suitcases that is just the right size to fit in the overhead locker. I hate the queues at the carousel when it comes time to collect your luggage. I love being able to get off the plane, and walk straight out of the airport.

My gear went up ahead with Mum & Poo. You have to love retirees. They hit the road on Tuesday, 4WD and caravan in tow, and made their way up. Normally I would shoot destination weddings on my own, but I don’t think Poo wanted to be left out of the action. Its so sweet of them, I’m very lucky to have folks that care so much. We also have family up here in Tannum, so its lovely to catch up with them also!

It was my first time flying in a miniature plane (Dash 8 ). They are so tiny, and have these propellar thingys where the jet engine should be, it was so weird. And you have to walk out onto the tarmac to board which was kind of cool. It was pretty noisy, and with the belly being so close to the ground, you felt every pothole on that Gladstone runway during landing. Although getting off you did kind of feel like you were a movie star getting off your own private jet. You and the 71 other passengers!

So tomorrow we shoot, and then I fly back on Sunday afternoon. I won’t be able to blog the wedding photo’s until I get home Sunday night so I can edit with a regular monitor and not the laptop. Don’t ask me why, but it does make a difference!

Stay tuned!

Last week I held a marathon intimate session at the Stamford. I called for volunteers on the blog, and had a fantastic response. I had the pleasure of shooting 10 gorgeous ladies over the course of two fun filled days.

There were friends of mine, past brides, and current brides, and it was a whirlwind couple of days. Initially, most girls were aprehensive about being photographed, but after a few quick warm up shots, and a little champagne, they became models in no time.

I really love this format, because its so personal, and really brings the best out of each and every participant. Its just me and them, and we have a good chat, and a laugh as we go along, and everyone commented at the end of the session how fun it was.

I’m definately considering holding another session on my next weekend off in July. If you’d like details then please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Here are a couple of shots of my girlfriends Natalie & Courtney (who have given me permission to blog these). I’ll post more early next week.

Here are a few extra curricular shots from my Easter Monday wedding.

The girls having a swordfight…

Me lying down on the job again…

Poo was supposed to be giving me shade in this shot, but thought he’d get in on the action…

And the famous “shade boy”…