How to get that lovin' feeling...

By JUDI KOSKI

"Bringing your own wedding photographer to your destinatioin wedding does not cost; it pays," says Erik Lovin and his partner, Vally LaFlamme, both of Erik Lovin Photography. Why trust your once-in-a-lifetime photos to a once-in-awhile amateur? Even though the destination resort package may include a photographer, it is often an inexperienced amateur with a digital camera. You will never get a second chance to make a first impression, they say.

Erik Lovin has been photographing weddings for over 20 years. Together Lovin and LaFlamme have joined numerous couples on location to photograph their special day. The most popular place out of country they say is Varadero, Cuba. They have also travelled to Puerta Vallarta, Mexico; Vancouver, BC; Denison House, Elliot Lake; St Michael's Bay, Manitoulin Island; Saenchiur Flechey Resort, and Monetville closer to home.

Erik Lovin collections are customized to meet their clients' needs. They often are a mix of print and digital. They are currently partnering with All Seasons Travel to offer a complimentary DVD photo movie valued at $950.00 to any couple that books their destination wedding with All Seasons.

What are the advantages to taking your own photographer? Peace of mind. It is not the camera that takes the photos, it is the photographer. Professionally capturing your destination wedding is technique, craft, talent, experience and a large part communication. And unfortunately, some resort photographers do not speak English.

"We speak English, French, Finnish, Italian and Spanish. The couple will have already gotten to know us before we go and can trust that we can provide superb coverage of their wedding," says LaFlamme. You can trust award-winning photographer Erik Lovin to capture and create a love story that will always remind you how you felt and looked on the most important day of your life. We will be with you every step of the way," she adds.

Wedding couples, especially brides, are becoming more savvy, well-informed and know exactly what they want. They do the research and they do their homework. The quality of their photographic coverage is not something they want to worry about, so they arrange it before they travel. It is suggested that photos should be a least 20 per cent of their wedding budget. A professional photographer gives you true value for your investment in his skill, talent, creativity, confidence and experience.

What is included in a typical package by Erik Lovin? Consultations, engagement session-either locally or at the resort, all-day event coverage (getting ready, ceremony, formals, spontaneous, family and friends, reception, sunset) and products of the couple's choice. Lovin also offers an exclusive on-line viewing feature where family and friends can enjoy the event and purchase images.

"Our style differs for every couple because it is as unique as every couple is different. We create some artistic style effects and photograph with a touch of fashion, tradition and spontaneity. We pick up the energy of the day with the couple and it is reflected in the photos," says Lovin.

Erik Lovin Photography is located in a residential gallery at 910 Corsi Hill in the south end. Information about destination wedding photography is also available on the website www.studioeurope.ca or call 705-673-4483.