I’m always excited about shooting an Indian wedding. I know it’s going to be dazzlingly colorful and absolutely full of energy! Rajan and Drishti’s Virginia Indian wedding in Tysons Corner Virginia was no exception!
We started off Friday night with their Sangeet. Traditionally, this is a celebration that comes the night before the wedding and usually includes great food and many dance performances. It’s a more free-form time that gives a chance for family and friends to be welcomed into the wedding weekend and start the celebration early. I had a great time documenting the hugs, the emotions, the reuniting of family, and the palpable excitement! The Sangeet also gave me a chance to get to know Rajan, Drishti and their family before the full wedding day, which as a photographer is a huge advantage. It can be strange to welcome someone outside the family to join in on such an incredible set of events, so I’m grateful I had the time to connect the night before.
This Virginia Indian wedding started early for Drishti. Hair and makeup lead into donning her red wedding dress and many articles of jewelry. Her gold bracelets stood out brilliantly against the dark henna that had been applied a few days earlier. I focused on photographing her wedding dress and these details, as each held strong meaning and importance for her.
Once she was ready, she met Rajan, her groom-to-be, for their first look in the hotel courtyard. Images of their expressions as they saw each other for the first time in their wedding attire showed that they could hardly believe this day was finally here! I stood back, giving them time, documenting each moment, so that they could remember this forever.
The hour before the ceremony is one of my favorite parts of any Indian wedding. Rajan’s Baraat, the groom’s grand entrance, is one long dance party! Rajan started by riding a horse, then finished by dancing with all his family and friends, moving to where he would be welcomed by Drishti’s family. It’s a high energy experience that is a thrill to photograph!
At the ceremony the moment came when Drishti was walked down the aisle, unseen to Rajan, before being revealed. As the curtain was removed, I could see Rajan wiping away a tear, and that image became my favorite from their wedding. The ceremony was full of beautiful moments, traditions, and meaningful times with their parents under their mandap. I moved quietly around, documenting the ceremony from all sides and angles, wanting to make sure nothing was missed.
Following the ceremony we moved to a time of portraits and an afternoon break. Everyone returned to their hotel room, relaxed, and prepared for an even greater evening of celebration! I loved being up-close for the action at the wedding reception, this was a non-stop evening of singing, dancing, and performance after performance to commemorate the couple. I left that night feeling tired, but so very full of excitement and anticipation for Rajan and Drishti’s. Their families poured themselves out with loving speeches, tender embraces, and a promise to be there for them throughout their lives. It’s what makes weddings so special, and it’s the reason I love being able to document them.
See other recent Weddings, click HERE
See their engagement photos HERE
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