‘How I Shot This’
It might seem like an obvious choice, but I wanted the first kiss to have some context rather than just a close-up of the moment. Shooting with a wide-angle lens in landscape orientation helps include the whole scene, capturing the space and how the guests are reacting. This way, the shot tells the full story in one frame.
Setting the Scene
The couple had modeling backgrounds, which gave the entire shoot a collaborative rhythm. Our prep was simple. We did moodboard, focused on keeping things elegant but natural. And we prepped our gear for a good mix of film and digital. We knew we wouldn’t have much time with the film!
We agreed early: the venue would do the styling work. Our role was to frame it honestly and beautifully.
Photographer: Matt Godkin
In contrast to shooting wide, using a tighter crop, and even intentionally cutting off faces, can shift the viewer’s focus to other elements within the frame. With this frame, I wanted to emphasize the flowers and the intricate design of the dress.
Quick Info
Film: Leica MP + 28mm Summicron, Fuji GA645, Olympus MJU II
Digital: Leica Q3, Canon R5 + 24–70mm & 50mm
Coverage: 2 hours
Team: 2 photographers
Location: Mairie du 7ème, Paris
Ceremony
The ceremony space inside Mairie du 7ème had me nervous at first: heavy interiors can mean hard, heavy light and weird casts. But the entire side wall opened to Parisian daylight, transforming the space into something open and lighter than I expected. My wife, who second shoots almost everything with me, and I, barely had to say a word to each other; we know how to cover the room right. The space was tight, which limited angles, but it pushed us into precision. Every frame and moment had to matter.
‘How I shot this’
This image demonstrates how shooting wide can capture multiple stories within a single frame. While the primary focus is on the groom interacting with a young family member, we also see the mother and grandmother observing and gesturing toward the girl. In the opposite corner, guests are shown waiting and mingling, adding another layer of narrative. Captured on black-and-white 35mm film, the photograph conveys a timeless and nostalgic atmosphere.
‘How I Shot This’
It might seem like an obvious choice, but I wanted the first kiss to have some context rather than just a close-up of the moment. Shooting with a wide-angle lens in landscape orientation helps include the whole scene, capturing the space and how the guests are reacting. This way, the shot tells the full story in one frame.
Portraits
With limited time, portraits had to be quick and intuitive. Luckily, the couple’s modeling experience meant they flowed naturally. We gave minimal direction, instead leaning into the surrounding textures: Parisian facades outside, soft window light inside. Natural light framed most shots, but where the mood asked for punch, we layered in flash.
The result? Portraits that felt both timeless and relaxed, steeped in elegance without losing intimacy.
‘How I shot This’
Shot on medium format film with on-camera flash to create an editorial, nostalgic mood, with film tones enhancing the scene’s muted colors.
Closing Thoughts
Our coverage lasted only two hours, but it carried the weight of a full day. Paris weddings are about atmosphere as much as ceremony, and this one gave us both: gilded architecture, natural light, and two people who felt at home in front of the lens.
It was an honor to witness, capture, and preserve.
Vendors Credits:
Planner – Isla & Smith
Venue – Mairie du 7ème
Dress – Mathilda Moos
Groom’s Shoes – Santoni
