When you meet a couple as lively and in love as Jake and Stacey, you can't help but anticipate a wedding filled with fun and laughter. And let's just say, they didn't disappoint. Their wedding was such a blast that it left a lasting imprint on everyone present.
&nbsp;
Ernie, the ring bearer, stole the show with his charm and energy. His antics brought a smile to everyone's face, making the event all the more memorable. The first look with Pop was another heartwarming moment that set the tone for the entire day. The joy in Pop's eyes as he saw his granddaughter was truly a sight to behold.
&nbsp;
But the highlight of the day was Jake serenading his bride('s mother) with 'Stacey's Mum'. The room was filled with laughter and applause as he belted out the tune, making Stacey laugh and the guests cheer. It was a moment of pure joy and love, which is exactly what weddings are all about.
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These are just a few snippets from the day that were, for lack of a better word, fire. Every moment was filled with joy, laughter, and love, making it a day to remember for everyone involved.
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As a photographer, being part of such a special day is a blessing. Capturing these moments and seeing the joy on people's faces is what makes this job so rewarding. It's more than just taking photos - it's about being part of people's special moments and creating memories that last a lifetime.
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So here's to Jake and Stacey - may your life together be as fun and filled with love as your wedding day. Congratulations on your new journey as the Parkers!

A Wedding to Remember at Mereweather Surf Life Saving Club - The Joyful Union of Jake and Stacey

There are moments in life that are worth capturing, moments that bring joy, and moments that last forever. One such moment was on 25th May 2025, when Gemma and Jake tied the knot in the beautiful setting of Heavens Gardens, Port Stephens. This was a day filled with love, laughter, and an incredible team of professionals who made the couple's dream wedding come true.
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The day started with the dynamic duo where I worked with the talented photographer, Sharmila from LoveSoulfulPhotography.
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This wedding was a perfect example of what can be achieved when a team of professionals with the same values come together. It was a day filled with joy and love, a day that will always be remembered.

A Day in Heaven - Gemma and Jake's Wedding Story

Backlighting is an easy way to use natural lighting just after sunrise and just before sunset

On the beautiful University campus in Newcastle, seeking natural shade under the trees can provide respite from the midday sun and provide some interesting dappled natural light.

Sun directly overhead? Use the in between moments with black and white for real candid vintage shots.

<h4 data-sourcepos="35:1-35:59">4. Embrace the Boldness of Direct Light (Artistically)</h4>
&nbsp;
Sometimes, instead of fighting the harsh light, you can choose to lean into it for a dramatic and artistic effect.
&nbsp;
Eyes Closed, Faces to the Sky - Have your couple tilt their heads slightly upwards with their eyes gently closed. The direct sunlight can create interesting highlights and a sense of peacefulness. This is a more stylized approach and might not be suitable for every shot, but it can add a unique touch to your gallery.
&nbsp;
Faces to the ground - Doing the complete opposite can also help here! By having your couples faces away from the sun, there won't be uneven lighting. Bonus tips here include:
<ul>
<li style="font-size: 18px;" data-sourcepos="41:1-41:105">You can lay on the ground to get an interesting angle from below of the happy couple's faces</li>
<li style="font-size: 18px;" data-sourcepos="41:1-41:105">Placing the couple in the lower third of the photo with camera positioned just below or in line with their jawlines and having the background be stark rough texture or architecture, including historic buildings and charming wineries in the Hunter Valley, in the other two thirds of the photo will make it very deliberate and artistic</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
This technique requires careful posing and communication with your couple to ensure they are comfortable.
&nbsp;
<h4 data-sourcepos="43:1-43:51">5. Change Your Perspective - Ground Level Magic</h4>
&nbsp;
When all else fails, consider changing your shooting angle dramatically.
&nbsp;
Lying Down for Even Light - Have your couple lie down on the ground. Suddenly, the lighting on their faces becomes much more even as they are no longer directly under the overhead sun. This can also create unique and intimate compositions.
&nbsp;
Ensure the ground is clean and comfortable for your couple. This technique can lead to beautiful, unexpected portraits.

As a wedding photographer, you dream of capturing those soft, golden hour moments that bathe your couples in a romantic glow. But let's face it, wedding days rarely adhere perfectly to the ideal lighting schedule. The reality often involves navigating the challenges of harsh, midday sun &ndash; the kind that threatens unflattering shadows and those dreaded "raccoon eyes." Being a wedding photographer in the Hunter Valley, I'm experienced in navigating the diverse lighting conditions our region presents.

While backlighting can offer a beautiful solution when the sun is behind your subjects, even then, uneven light can creep in if the light is too harsh. And when the sun is directly overhead, the lack of shadows can flatten your images, robbing them of depth and dimension.

<h3 data-sourcepos="9:1-9:35">What do you do when you have harsh sunlight directly overhead though?</h3>
&nbsp;
<h4 data-sourcepos="9:1-9:35">1. Seek the Sanctuary of Shade</h4>
&nbsp;
This is often the most straightforward and effective way to diffuse harsh sunlight. Look for natural or architectural elements that can provide soft, even shade.
&nbsp;
<ul data-sourcepos="13:1-16:0">
<li style="font-size: 18px;" data-sourcepos="13:1-13:180">Under Trees -&nbsp;The dappled light filtering through leaves can create a romantic and whimsical atmosphere. Position your couple carefully to avoid harsh sunspots on their faces.</li>
<li style="font-size: 18px;" data-sourcepos="14:1-14:209">Within Buildings or Covered Areas - Porches, gazebos and even the shadows cast by buildings can offer a welcome reprieve from direct sunlight. These locations often provide interesting backdrops as well.</li>
<li style="font-size: 18px;" data-sourcepos="15:1-16:0">Natural Overhangs - Rock formations, cliffs or even large natural objects can act as natural umbrellas, providing shade and unique framing opportunities.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
By placing your couple in shade, you instantly soften the light, eliminate harsh shadows and create a more even and flattering illumination on their faces.

&nbsp;
<h4 data-sourcepos="19:1-19:71">2. Employ the Power of the Reflector (with an Assistant Advantage)</h4>
&nbsp;
A large reflector can be a game-changer when dealing with overhead sun, especially for close-up portraits.
&nbsp;
Overhead Diffusion - With the help of an assistant, position a large, translucent reflector directly above your couple. This effectively turns the harsh sunlight into a large, soft light source, mimicking the effect of an overcast day. This is particularly effective for bust and face portraits, providing even and beautiful skin tones.
&nbsp;
While this technique often requires an assistant, the results in terms of even lighting and control over shadows are well worth it.
&nbsp;
<h4 data-sourcepos="3:1-3:51">3. Embrace the Timelessness of Black and White</h4>
&nbsp;
When faced with harsh, direct sunlight that creates challenging shadows, consider the artistic choice of converting the image to black and white.
&nbsp;
Transforming Harsh Light into Dramatic Contrast - Strong sunlight often produces high contrast with deep shadows and bright highlights. In color, this can emphasise unflattering shadows and uneven skin tones. However, converting the image to black and white can transform this high contrast into a dramatic and artistic aesthetic. The stark interplay of light and shadow can become a powerful visual element, adding depth and mood to the photograph. This approach can be particularly effective for capturing candid moments or architectural details within the scene.
&nbsp;
This alternative strategy offers a creative way to deal with harsh light in post-processing, focusing on the artistic potential rather than trying to mitigate the light during the shoot.

<h4 data-sourcepos="35:1-35:59">4. Embrace the Boldness of Direct Light (Artistically)</h4>
&nbsp;
Sometimes, instead of fighting the harsh light, you can choose to lean into it for a dramatic and artistic effect.
&nbsp;
Eyes Closed, Faces to the Sky - Have your couple tilt their heads slightly upwards with their eyes gently closed. The direct sunlight can create interesting highlights and a sense of peacefulness. This is a more stylized approach and might not be suitable for every shot, but it can add a unique touch to your gallery.
&nbsp;
Faces to the ground - Doing the complete opposite can also help here! By having your couples faces away from the sun, there won't be uneven lighting. Bonus tips here include:
<ul>
<li style="font-size: 18px;" data-sourcepos="41:1-41:105">You can lay on the ground to get an interesting angle from below of the happy couple's faces</li>
<li style="font-size: 18px;" data-sourcepos="41:1-41:105">Placing the couple in the lower third of the photo with camera positioned just below or in line with their jawlines and having the background be stark rough texture or architecture, including historic buildings and charming wineries in the Hunter Valley, in the other two thirds of the photo will make it very deliberate and artistic</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
This technique requires careful posing and communication with your couple to ensure they are comfortable.
&nbsp;
<h4 data-sourcepos="43:1-43:51">5. Change Your Perspective - Ground Level Magic</h4>
&nbsp;
When all else fails, consider changing your shooting angle dramatically.
&nbsp;
Lying Down for Even Light - Have your couple lie down on the ground. Suddenly, the lighting on their faces becomes much more even as they are no longer directly under the overhead sun. This can also create unique and intimate compositions.
&nbsp;
Ensure the ground is clean and comfortable for your couple. This technique can lead to beautiful, unexpected portraits.

Worried About Bright Sun? Here's 5 Ways How Expert Wedding Photographers Get Amazing Shots

Timeless shot against a timeless chapel

I can see why people get married here!

Loving the locations to frame a couple up and achieve subtle symmetry

Georgia &amp; Nathan showing me how to do the robot

La Pera Estate, with its serene beauty and picturesque landscapes, provided the perfect backdrop for Georgia and Nathan's romantic couples shoot. As a photographer, I was thrilled to capture their connection amidst the stunning scenery of this Hunter Valley gem, particularly around the iconic La Pera Estate (formerly Lovedale Chapel) and its surrounding areas.

We started our session at the charming La Pera Estate's wedding chapel. While not a wedding this time, the estate's rustic elegance lent a timeless and romantic feel to the photos, highlighting the depth of Georgia and Nathan's affection for each other. The soft, natural light diffusing across the estate created an intimate yet moody atmosphere, perfect for capturing their tender moments.

From there, we explored the diverse beauty of La Pera Estate. The little undercover boat area provided a secluded and whimsical setting, allowing Georgia and Nathan to relax and be themselves. The resulting photos were filled with natural smiles and genuine connection. We then ventured into the wine vines, where the sprawling greenery and golden light created a magical and romantic ambiance. The vineyard shots perfectly captured the essence of the Hunter Valley and the couple's love story.

The iconic bridge at La Pera Estate was another highlight of our shoot. Here, Georgia and Nathan's joy was palpable, their laughter echoing through the valley. The bridge provided a stunning vantage point, showcasing the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the couple's radiant happiness. An incredible location to bring out the authenticity of a couple!

Throughout the session, I focused on capturing movement and candid / natural moments, allowing Georgia and Nathan's personalities to shine through. Their love for each other was evident in every glance, every touch, and every smile. These images are a testament to their deep connection and the beauty of their relationship.

<h3 data-sourcepos="6:1-6:70">Why La Pera Estate is Perfect for a Couples Shoot and Your Wedding</h3>
&nbsp;
La Pera Estate is a stunning location for a couples shoot, but it's also an ideal venue for your wedding. The estate offers a variety of picturesque settings, from the romantic chapel to the sprawling vineyards and the iconic bridge. No matter what the weather is like, La Pera Estate provides endless opportunities for beautiful and memorable photos.

As a wedding photographer, I'm passionate about capturing the unique beauty of each couple's love story. I'm also a firm believer that rain, hail, or shine, every wedding day is special and deserves to be celebrated. That's why I'm committed to working with couples to create stunning wedding photos, no matter what the weather throws our way.
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If you're planning your wedding at La Pera Estate, I'd be honored to be your photographer. I'll work closely with you to capture the magic of your day, from the intimate moments to the grand celebrations. Contact me today to discuss your wedding photography needs!

Georgia & Nathan's Romantic Couples Shoot at La Pera Estate - Love in the Rain

There is nothing like genuine joy and love between a couple!

Sam bringing out the dancer within!

A nice little candid moment between poses

Sam's dress understood the assignment

Key Takeaways for Your Own Couple's Shoot
&nbsp;
<ul>
<li style="font-size: 18px;" data-sourcepos="5:1-5:165">👗 Coordinate your outfits with the environment - Sam's pastel dress perfectly complemented the pastel sky creating a visually stunning and cohesive look.</li>
<li style="font-size: 18px;" data-sourcepos="6:1-6:151">🏞️ Choose a location with variety -&nbsp;King Edward Park offered both lush gardens and a scenic waterfront providing diverse backdrops for the shoot.</li>
<li style="font-size: 18px;" data-sourcepos="7:1-7:139">☀️ Embrace natural light - The soft natural light during the golden hour, even if the clouds prevented backlit shots, enhanced the romantic atmosphere and created a dreamy effect in the clouds.</li>
<li style="font-size: 18px;" data-sourcepos="8:1-8:159">❤️ Let your love shine - The most important element is the genuine connection between the couple. Relax have fun and let your love story unfold naturally.</li>
<li style="font-size: 18px;" data-sourcepos="8:1-8:159">💐 Bring Props -&nbsp;The delicate pink flowers added a touch of whimsy, echoing the sweetness of their bond and tying in the pastel theme perfectly.</li>
</ul>

I recently had the pleasure of capturing a truly enchanting couple's shoot at the picturesque King Edward Park in Newcastle. As a wedding photographer, there is nothing better than when the setting is nothing short of magical... the lush greenery of the gardens and the serene expanse of the nearby water providing the perfect backdrop for a love story unfolding. A great way to spend a peaceful Saturday afternoon!

Our beautiful couple, Dylan and Sam, radiated joy and affection their smiles as bright as the setting sun. Sam looked absolutely stunning in a delicate pastel pink dress its soft hue perfectly complementing the dreamy pastel shades painted across the evening sky. It was as if the clouds themselves were celebrating their love mirroring the gentle tones of her attire.

The shoot began amidst the verdant beauty by King Edward Park's gardens with a staircase where the couple were framed amongst the greenery. The natural setting provided a sense of intimacy and romance allowing their genuine connection to shine. The gardens being full of people, we decided to go down towards the water..

As the sun began its descent we ventured towards the waterfront where the vastness of the ocean mirrored the depth of their love. The pastel sky a canvas of soft pinks blues and oranges created a breathtaking backdrop enhancing the romantic atmosphere.

Every frame captured the essence of their relationship playful tender and deeply connected. Sam's delicate bouquet of pink flowers added a touch of whimsy echoing the sweetness of their bond.
&nbsp;
This shoot was a reminder of the power of love and the beauty of capturing fleeting moments in time. The soft pastel palette both in the bride's dress and the surrounding environment created a cohesive and dreamy aesthetic making each photograph a work of art.

And if you're looking to capture those unforgettable moments, whether it's a unique wine tasting, an engagement shoot or your wedding day itself, I'd love to hear from you! Check out my packages <a href="https://www.timelessbynate.com/#featured-packages-section">here</a>. Let's create beautiful, lasting memories together. My approach to photography is that I love to capture joy and the candid, in-between moments.

Love in Pastel Hues - A Romantic King Edward Park Garden & Waterfront Shoot

Lovely wines from Hollydeene Estate chilled and ready for the tasting and watch-pairings!

Sparkling wine meets the Frederique Constant Runabout at Novo Swiss. A perfect pairing of Hollydene Estate Wines' elegance and luxury timekeeping.

Wine tasters curiously checking out the fun Mido Commander 1959 'Pixel'

Tommy from Wedding Chats tries on the Oris x The Muppets Miss Piggy Edition at Novo Swiss!

The energy at the event was truly infectious, with guests like Tommy from <a href="https://www.weddingchats.com.au/">Wedding Chats</a> fully embracing the unique concept. Wedding Chats is a fantastic resource for couples planning their big day, offering a unique wedding guestbook and entertainment experience in Sydney and Newcastle, capturing heartfelt video messages from guests through interviews, creating a fun and interactive keepsake. Their presence at Weddings, Watches, and Wine perfectly illustrates the growing trend of incorporating personalised and memorable experiences into every aspect of wedding planning.

Planning a wedding often involves countless tastings &ndash; cakes, caterers and of course the wine! But what about a tasting with a twist? Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to photograph "Weddings, Watches and Wine," a truly unique event hosted by Hollydeene Estate Weddings Hunter Valley, Novo Swiss Newcastle and Wedding Chats. This wasn't your typical wine tasting; instead of pairing exquisite wines with complementary foods, Novo Swiss curated a stunning selection of luxury watches to enhance the sensory experience of each vintage. The result? Pure magic.
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Want to learn more about Hollydene Estate's incredible wines and exquisite wedding venue? Click <a href="https://www.hollydeneestate.com/">here</a>!
&nbsp;
The atmosphere at Novo Swiss was electric. Guests, many of whom were engaged couples and wedding enthusiasts, mingled amidst the dazzling displays of timepieces. The concept &ndash; pairing the intricate craftsmanship of a luxury watch with the nuanced notes of a fine wine &ndash; was brilliantly unexpected. Instead of discussing food pairings, conversations revolved around how fun and interesting a particular is and how it matches the notes of the wine or how the intricate details of a watch face mirrored the energy of the Shiraz. It created a level of engagement and excitement I've rarely seen at a traditional wine tasting.

The atmosphere at Novo Swiss was electric. Guests, many of whom were engaged couples and wedding enthusiasts, mingled amidst the dazzling displays of timepieces. The concept &ndash; pairing the intricate craftsmanship of a luxury watch with the nuanced notes of a fine wine &ndash; was brilliantly unexpected. Instead of discussing food pairings, conversations revolved around how the weight of a particular watch on the wrist reflected the body of a Cabernet Sauvignon or how the intricate details of a watch face mirrored the complex bouquet of a Chardonnay. It created a level of engagement and excitement I've rarely seen at a traditional wine tasting.
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As a wedding photographer, I'm always looking for those authentic moments of joy and connection. Weddings, Watches and Wine provided them in abundance. The surprised laughter as guests discovered unexpected pairings, the thoughtful contemplation of a watch's design alongside a sip of wine, the animated discussions sparked by this novel approach &ndash; it was a photographer's dream! The event demonstrated that thinking outside the box can create truly memorable experiences. And it highlighted just how perfect a Novo Swiss watch is for a significant milestone. Whether it's a wedding gift, a graduation gift to mark a new chapter, or a special birthday gift, a luxury timepiece is a timeless and cherished present.
&nbsp;

This event perfectly encapsulates the trend of creating unique, personalised wedding experiences. It wasn't just about what was being tasted, but how. The innovative pairing concept generated buzz, fostered conversation and left a lasting impression. If you're looking for a way to add a touch of unexpected luxury to your wedding planning, or searching for that perfect, unforgettable gift, I highly recommend checking out <a href="https://novoswiss.com.au/">Novo Swiss Newcastle</a>. They clearly understand how to create an unforgettable experience and offer a stunning collection for any occasion.

This event perfectly encapsulates the trend of creating unique, personalised wedding experiences. It wasn't just about what was being tasted, but how. The innovative pairing concept generated buzz, fostered conversation and left a lasting impression. If you're looking for a way to add a touch of unexpected luxury to your wedding planning, or searching for that perfect, unforgettable gift, I highly recommend checking out <a href="https://novoswiss.com.au/">Novo Swiss Newcastle</a>. They clearly understand how to create an unforgettable experience and offer a stunning collection for any occasion.
&nbsp;
It's also important to give the appropriate appreciation to the amazing team at NOVO Swiss Newcastle. Their attention to detail, passion for watches and commitment made the perfect partnership to host such an event.

And if you're looking to capture those unforgettable moments, whether it's a unique wine tasting, an engagement shoot or your wedding day itself, I'd love to hear from you! Check out my packages <a href="https://www.timelessbynate.com/#featured-packages-section">here</a>. Let's create beautiful, lasting memories together. My approach to photography is that I love to capture the candid, in-between, unexpected moments.

Weddings, Watches and Wine - A Unique Tasting Experience at Novo Swiss Newcastle

Thank you so much for coming and taking gorgeous photos, Nate! Your energy was so chill and everyone was so comfortable 🙏

Bec A

Nate recently photographed a friend's hens. We found him funny, engaging, and his photos are great!! 10/10 would recommend

Nat H

Cannot recommend highly enough. We had such an amazing time with our shoot. Nate created such a fun and comfortable atmosphere - the whole experience was more like a fun outing with an old friend than a photo shoot. The results are beautiful, we couldn't be happier!

Georgia D

We had an amazing shoot with Nate, he made us feel very relaxed, comfortable and confident. We had a lot of fun and the photos were stunning! Would definitely recommend 🩷

Sam C

We were lucky enough to have Nate photograph our engagement on a beautiful Saturday sunrise. He made us feel so comfortable and at ease, resulting in candid and authentic captures which we’ll treasure for a lifetime. Nate prioritised the vision and was able to emulate the feeling of the photos i had shared in the lead up to the shoot. He was excellent with communication and prompting us to get the shot!! We can’t wait to have our next milestone captured x

Olivia H

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I would like to find people like me with the same values. I spent 15 years working in corporate honing my project management skills and am well versed at problem solving. I shoot in a true to life style and black and white with a focus on capturing the best of people. Write in this style with no oxford commas: my values lay in fun, communication and collaboration. I love capturing joy and adding joy to people's lives, which is why I love photography! It's great being able to add to peoples' special day and fit in with your tribe. It's sad to think about but you never know when a photo will be the last photo taken of somebody and so I take capturing the moment seriously and I know how important these photos are because they are heirlooms.