Afghan Wedding

 

I recently had the opportunity to shoot an Afghan wedding.  My first.  I was curious to see the cultural elements that I haven't experienced before.   In this case, it turned out to be mix of cultures.  For example during the limo ride to the park to take pictures, they played Afghan hip-hop over the stereo system.  Then at the reception the women filled one side of the room and the men the other, that is except for the table where the non-Muslims sat which was mixed.  Then on the dance floor, the only time men and women danced together was if they were married to each other or immediate family.  Other than that, they took turns with all the men dancing and then the women.  The band was fantastic though I didn't understand a word they sang or said.  It was great music and got everyone on their feet.  There was a grand feast and then hours later the bride and groom sliced into a very recognizable wedding cake.  It was served with some traditional Afghan confections.  All in all it was a great event and I was very happy to do my part for the happy couple.

The Foreigner

 I was asked to do the cast photo shoot for Stage Coach Theater's latest production, a hilarious comedy called The Foreigner.  Particularly challenging was that since our new theater is still under construction this production took place in an alternative space.  It was actually an empty store in a shopping center.  As a result, the lighting wasn't as great as it normally is when you're taking pictures on stage.  By necessity, the lights were fewer than normal and set fairly low in the corners of the room.  One of my biggest challenges was keeping my shadow out of the picture.  I didn't always succeed.  Still, this was a great cast of very funny and entertaining people and I had a great time working with them..