the blog.
Feb 27, 2017
One of my favorite moments about Michaela and Mike’s wedding was a little surprise after the ceremony when one of their parent’s friends brought up a sweet classic car and let us take photos with it! I know sometimes, if not done right, these types of photos can look cheesy or dated, but to me, the car lover, I was in heaven. I have always loved different cars and everything about them. I wish I had thought of something like this for my wedding oh so many years ago. I shoot so many different things because I love so many different things. Maybe I should add car models to the list!
I met Michaela and her awesome bridesmaids at Aniu Salon for their hair and make-up appointments. Aniu is one of those amazing places full of gorgeous architecture and lighting. And the staff was more than welcoming. Check out the arm tats on the guy doing make-up! Now that is one cool make-up artist.
The Marriott is always super fun to shoot. If you haven’t been there, it has all of the floors and rooms surrounding a large open area that you can look down on. If you are afraid of heights, you probably shouldn’t go up the elevator which looks out over everything. The arial shots of the ceremony turned out really cool thanks to Heidi!
Mike was incredibly dapper and cool waiting to catch a moment with Michaela before the ceremony. I was with her getting in a quick wedding day boudoir session. I do that ladies! It is such a cool surprise for your groom. Well, little did he know, she wasn’t wearing much when they talked through that door! I hope she shared that little secret with him in later 😉
One of my favorite places to shoot in Madison is Pope Farms. That place is so beautiful all year long. The long path and rock wall is so pretty! One of Madison’s many gems. We took some time with the wedding party and enjoyed the beautiful September weather.
At the end of the night, the kids were dancing like crazy and eating blue M&Ms (you know, for Michaela and Mike) and having the time of their lives. I loved shooting the little girls flying through the air from their dads and big smiles on everyone’s faces. What a happy day.
Vendors: Second shooter: Heidi E. Johnson // Venue: Madison Marriott West // Hair and Makeup: Aniu Salon and Spa // DJ: Madison Mobil DJs // Florist: Blooms // Cake: Carl’s Cakes // Ceremony Officient: Karen at Ceremonies by Design
Feb 21, 2017
This glorious union between Kara and Tony took place at one of Madison’s most beautiful parks. Olin Turville overlooks Lake Monona and the Capitol and was the perfect venue for this super fun, casual, laid back wedding.
Feb 9, 2017
Our final wedding of the 2016 busy season was one of the most inspiring and emotional endings I have ever had. It was my very first gay wedding and I am so happy that Heidi and I were able to be a part of this momentous event for Nick + Michael and capture every amazing detail!
When I think back to the day of the wedding, all I can remember is how joyous everyone was. We walked into their house full of amazing friends and loved ones, all getting ready together and drinking and laughing. These people are the kind of people I want to be around every day and throughout the day, there was never-ending laughter, cheering, hugging and dancing. It was such an amazing thing to witness.
We had so much fun taking photos at the Capitol with the wedding party and family and then just a few moments alone with the Grooms over at Yahara Place Park (one of my favorite places in Madison!). The ceremony and reception took place at Madison Turners which is a fantastic venue for dancing and fitting in close to 300 guests! I was overwhelmed with the happiness, acceptance, emotion and just plain YES!
Here are just a few of my favorite moments from the big day. There are so many more but alas, I can only fit a small sampling of the amazing day. If I had to use three words to describe this incredible wedding, it would be: Unforgettable, Emotional, and FUN. Enjoy!
Vendors: Second Shooter: Heidi Johnson // Ceremony and Reception: Madison Turners // Officient: Diana Kessel // DJ: Midwest Sound // Men’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse // Women’s Attire: David’s Bridal // Cupcakes: Becky Huttenlocher // Catering: Hyvee
Jan 11, 2017
Dec 5, 2016
Dec 1, 2016
Catharine and her bridesmaids were laughing hysterically when Becca and I walked in the room. I immediately knew that today was going to be an overflowing barrel of you know what. We got out our cameras and immediately got to work shooting all of the beautiful details that our lovely bride had chosen for her […]
Nov 8, 2016
Hillary Schave of Azena Photography and Heidi Johnson of The Blue Umbrella have teamed up to host a Holiday Mini Session Event! This is your chance to get your family photos taken in a comfortable and fun environment. Bring the kids, pets, friends, whoever! Your Holiday Card Needs this!
All Mini Sessions Includes:
20 Minute Session. Mini Session Fee is $129.
Same Day Viewing of Photo Gallery.
Includes 3 High Resolution Edited Images with Printing Rights emailed to you.
Online album to share with your friends and family.
Great deals on additional print and digital options!
Bring items to donate to the River Food Pantry and Receive a Customized Ornament with 1-2 of your favorite images!
Go to this link to book your session:
https://azenaphoto.shootproof.com/gallery/HolidayMiniSession
Contact Hillary or Heidi with Questions.