As you plan for your wedding, have you ever thought about some of the traditional things that you're "supposed" to do and where they came from? You might be surprised why how far back their history goes and why their even included and modern day weddings. In terms of wedding photography, think about some of these old traditions. Do they apply to you? Why are you including them? If you've followed my blog in the past, you know I urge every couple I photography to be unique in some way. Maybe it's time to rethink some of these traditions and how they apply to you.

Fall is the best time of year to get married in Maine. The weather is cool, the leaves are vibrant and the cider is tasty. It is therefore no suprise that I was very excited and humbled when I was asked to be Natalie and Russ' wedding photographer at Mountain House on Sunday River last October

I offer adventurous wedding photography and elopments. What exactly do I mean by adventurous? If you were to look on my website there is talk of climbing to the top of mountains and getting your wedding dress muddy. Google adventurous wedding photographer and you’ll get thousands of results with images of brides on the edge of the grand canyon or on some remote beach with their wedding dress blowing perfectly in the wind. That is a big part of what I do. I want to work with couples who work hard and play hard, who travel the world and aren't afraid to sweat to make their wedding day memorable. But that isn't everything.

“Should we do a first look?”

As a professional wedding photographer, this is one of the most common questions couples ask while planning their wedding timeline. After photographing more than 300 weddings over the past 15+ years, I’ve seen first-hand what works, what doesn’t, and how this one decision can shape the entire flow—and feel—of a wedding day.

This post isn’t about trends or rules. It’s about helping you decide whether a first look on your wedding day makes sense for you.

Andrea and Mark's San Francisco City Hall wedding by Chris Bennett Photography.

Tory and Adam's gorgeous Maine Coast wedding by Chris Bennett Photography.

Kate and Keith's beautiful Southern Maine wedding, photographs by Chris Bennett Photography.

Ashley and Adam's stunning wedding at The Fells, Newbury, New Hampshire

I had the pleasure of photographing Emily and Mike's island wedding on a gorgeous day in September. The weather was stunning. The food was excellent. The donuts were fresh!

Jessica's family has owned a house on Chebeague Island, in Maine's Casco bay, for several generations. It was an obvious and intimate place to celebrate her love for Patrick with family and friends. Thanks Jessica and Patrick for choosing me to be your wedding photographer!