Annabelle & Nathan traveled over from Hong Kong for their very special pre-wedding photo shoot in Prague. The magical city of 100 spires certainly did not disappoint.
They met during their university studies in Hong Kong in 2008 and though they were both in a relationship they quickly became good friends. Though they kept their true feelings from each other on how they felt towards each other their relationship finally bloomed later after experiencing the many trials and tribulations of their personal and academic lives. As Annabelle put it, ‘we finally decided to be together when we graduated in 2012.’
Like many couples from Hong Kong when you make the decision to commit to each other you must start planning ahead and this includes the wedding and the very important pre-wedding photo shoot. They decided on Prague as they both felt that ‘Prague is the most beautiful city in Europe! And Prague (and their pre-wedding portrait session did not let them down.
Prague is deservedly one of Europe’s most popular tourists destinations – as such it can be very tricky photographing couples who wish to have a more intimate feel to their images. Therefore we opted for a very early morning start to capture the quiet, gas lit streets minus the hordes of tourists. One of the most beautiful pictures is also one of the first ones – the simple image of Annabelle & Nathan watching the sunrise near the Charles Bridge. Funny enough we have had many couples ask to have this same motif and style.
Though I am quite happy with this image it was a shame that we did not have the usual swans photo bombing our picture. But having the location all to ourselves and seeing the light reflecting and twinkling off the Vltava made it that much more special. The beautiful hand made lantern that was sold in the Souk market in Dubai as they watched the light start to break above the skyline also added wonderfully to this image. We then walked over to one of my favorite locations so that they can sit and take it all in. It was a truly beautiful, peaceful and relaxing start to our day.
As we arrived to the Charles Bridge there must have been about 6 other photographers posing their couples. Truth be told, we did not wish to spend that much time here as so many people were already crowding onto the bridge. But what we did capture were these two simply enjoying one of the most beautiful sunrises across a truly iconic cityscape and the flaring sun did not disappoint.
Annabelle had mentioned her desire to be photographed in a lush green setting and as the Cherry Blossom Trees were in full bloom we went to a location that is truly picture perfect – one where they could sit down, enjoy the scenery and take it all in. She told me later that the photos captured during their time at the garden were the most personal and special ones as the vivid colors captured their mood.
In addition to their wedding attire, Annabelle & Nathan decided that a trip to Prague Castle and in casual clothes were in order – so after an outfit change (and a new hair & makeup look) we headed up there for part two of their session. Capturing them as they explored this incredible castle are some of my faves.
Location: Malostranské náměstí Praha 1 - Malá Strana 118 00 Czech Republic.
