Not everything goes according to plan. And no… everyone who comes to get married to the City Hall gets married. Phykun and Jonathan had some issues during the check in, but we worked out through them together. At the end we found our own officiant who was on fire and did the ceremony better than any officiant could. I laughed while taking photos.
We spent some time around the City Hall covering all 4 floors, happily coming outside for some fresh air and last few photos.
Who says you can’t have a small wedding ceremony in the City Hall without your bridesmaids and groomsmen? Carleigh and Adam definitely didn’t think so.
Yes, it was small.. yes it was intimate.. and it was perfect! We got great emotional ceremony photos, lots of group photo variations and of course a good variety of photos with just the couple. Couldn’t help it but take extra photos of just the lovely bride by herself.
When your family is not in the same country when you decide to get married, you bring your close friends and Skype.
I have photographed large wedding, very large weddings. I do enjoy that, but a smaller wedding is more relaxing for bride and groom as well as their guests. Everyone gets time to talk to them, joke around, take photos and it ends up being more personal and emotional to capture.
That’s how it turned out when Irem & Berti got married. Once we shot the ceremony, group photos and most of Irem & Berti photos that i wanted to do, I did a few portrait solo photos. As you talk to your couple while shooting and behind the scenes, you learn a lot more. Like the fact that Berti was studying to be a photographer and does some great aerial photos - i checked out his instagram later on.
The best part about my job is that I get to meet people i normally wouldn’t meet. I get to hear stories, learn about their lives, what they like, what they do and at the same time be part of one of their most memorable day.
Valentine’s day is a special kind of day at the San Francisco City Hall. It’s also one of the busiest day a year when it comes to weddings. On days like that we are always prepared to take advantage of the open areas as soon as we see them.
Now Xinwei & Minmeng got very lucky on that day in so many ways. They got one of my favorite City Hall officiant, their ceremony was moved up to the 4th floor. In addition to that we timed it right so they could get a clean shot of the Grand Stairwell. For those who have come to the City Hall on regular days, they would know that people are constantly going up and down the stairwell and standing on the 2nd floor. So the grand stairwell shots .. clean grand stairwell shots.. are not always possible. However it all was doable on February 14th for this awesome couple.
This is just a small sample of variety of photos the couple received . Both natural and flash light used.
Parents from both sides, bride's grand parents and bride and groom came together on a Friday afternoon. Kayla and Chris have been together for a few years but this is the 1st time their parents meet. One side is coming from Boston while another from San Diego for a wedding that brings the family together. The grand parents served as witness.
Our wedding shoot turned into an afternoon of hanging out. Congrats you two!
Best wishes to the newlyweds from SFCH Photo!
Photos at City Hall and on location in SF. Great time with the lovely out of state couple, congrats from SFCH Photo!
We also specialize in on-location shoots in San Francisco. Just tell us what you would like to see in the background and we can dig into our list of cool locations to photograph you. Rates start at $250 for one-hour. This photo was taken in the Marina District.
Calm day inside city hall with another lovely local couple. These afternoon shoots make you feel like you've got the building to yourself sometimes!
Flags at half mast following last weeks tragedy in Paris. Our prayers go out to everyone who lost something that day.
* NOTE - NO PARTICULAR ORDER *
1. FRONT OF CITY HALL
A true must-have for anyone getting married at city hall. This sign is located above the middle door of the main entrance on the Polk Street side, and offers the perfect cover to any photo album. This spot is relatively easy to access and usually doesn't require a wait (Except when protests or demonstrations are commandeering the front steps!)
2. GRAND STAIRCASE
The grand staircase leading to the rotunda is one of the first things you'll see once you pass security and enter the main building of City Hall.
This is arguably the most difficult location to photograph since there are often dozens of people trying to get the same shots. However, with a little patience and luck, great shots await.
3. GOVERNOR'S BALCONY
Staring out at the rotunda and the vast beauty of City Hall, the Governor's balcony is a perfect location for couples and group shots alike. While sometimes difficult to secure unattended, it highlights the architectural beauty of City Hall.
4. THIRD FLOOR WINDOWS
These windows are an absolute must for couples visiting city hall. Not only does everyone have a blast here, the photos turn out incredible. Further, since most people avoid exploring the upper levels of city hall, these hallways are usually empty.
5. FOURTH FLOOR
In order to truly appreciate the magnificence and grandeur of San Francisco's City Hall, one must venture up to the fourth floor balcony. Here you'll fine beautiful light for group and couples shots alike.
* TREE GARDEN *
Technically not inside of City Hall, the trees lined up outside the front entrance make for even more great photo opportunities. Living above a massive underground parking lot, these trees offer a great spot for people to capture SF City Hall in a different light.
Congrats to the newlyweds! Had a terrific shoot thanks C&E!
All the best wishes to the newlyweds!
Intimate ceremony with wonderful people. Best wishes to SF's newest official couple.
Best wishes to SF's newest couple!
