Ryan Birchall Photography

Priorities

2012-01-18T10:52:00.008-05:00

Since I began to shoot weddings eight or so years ago, I have always paid close attention to details that make up the day. Such care, preparation and diligence (mostly from the bride) goes into the elements of a wedding that they have been told are necessities. The dress, the caterer, the music, the flowers, the photographer, seem to consume the couple's minds, never mind their budget. Over the years, and especially now as I plan my own wedding, I have learned one very important thing: The "things" do not make a wedding.
The dress does not have to cost thousands- it doesn't even have to be white, or long or even a "wedding gown" at all. The food doesn't have to be formal, the music doesn't have to be a generic wedding playlist, or costly band and the flowers don't have to be arranged just so- flowers don't even have to be a part of your decor if they are not a part of who you are as couple.
The photography should only a part of your day if its important to you; and it should be shot in a way that reflects who you are as a couple. It doesn't need to include stuffy family portraits or hours of posing just right.
A wedding is about two people professing their love for each other. It may be that this is done in front of their family and friends, ten or two hundred and ten, or it may be in the privacy of their hearts, with a single witness. A wedding may or may not be "the most important day of your life." It is the relationships and moments in a life, that make it important. It is what you do with your talents, the difference that you make, the impression you leave.
A wedding may not be what your parents or grandparents envision. Your vision and priorities are what matters... What matters is that the person you lock eyes with while walking down that aisle is the light of your soul.

Playing Catch Up

2012-01-16T22:30:00.008-05:00

Early in this past summer, I was given the opportunity to shoot some jewelry for a local shop, Whispering Cowgirl.

Shooting product was a new territory for me, as my subjects are usually full of life. Being able to totally control and manipulate a subject was interesting. It was a fun experience and I learned a lot. Here's a taste of some of the shots, and the gorgeous jewelry (the Pyrrha line being my personal favorite.)

bliss.

2011-11-26T13:02:00.003-05:00

It has been quite some time since I have posted. On September 28th at 11:26 AM, my life was forever changed when Maximus, my baby boy, decided to join the world. Since then, I have been all-consumed with feedings, diapers and simply staring at him while he sleeps. Oh, and also taking photo after photo of his perfect face. More to come as I am certain he is my new muse.

From Ryan Birchall Photography

The Season of Love

2011-07-31T21:51:00.008-04:00

Apologies for the delayed and limited postings this season- it has been one of my busiest yet.
Love surrounds me though as I attend and shoot weddings, family portraits and life and love as it blooms and thrives in the salty sunlight. Here is a peek at some of my shots this season so far:

Stolen moments

2011-05-22T21:09:00.002-04:00

To be a wedding photographer is to be temporary guest in the most intimate of moments in someone's life. Through the lens, I have the courage to capture the most tender and private of instances- those stolen moments that when compared to the chaos of the day, the commotion of life, are the most profound. Congrats to Jaffrie and Sheila, the first wedding of the season for me.

Oh Lovely Day

2011-04-27T11:32:00.001-04:00

Bridal Blog Oh Lovely Day has featured one of the most lovely weddings I have been a part of. Lovebirds, and dear friends of mine, Derek and Tina were wed last September in Hansen, MA. Check it out!
Oh Lovely Day

Simple & Heartfelt Wedding Inspiration for your Lovely Day: {Real Wedding} Tina & Derek: Homespun Outdoor Love...

Renewal

2011-04-06T10:25:00.004-04:00

As the ground thaws and Spring begins show its face in subtle and diminutive ways, I also get a little glimpse at the wedding season to come. Last week, in a last minute ceremony, my aunt Nancy married her match, Robert. The brief indoor ceremony was casual, performed by a local Justice of the Peace, but filled with sentiment and love and followed by oysters, a champagne toast and a lovely chocolate cake by PB Boulangerie. From there, we moved the intimate celebration to dinner at The Wicked Oyster. It was a refreshing, moving way to welcome the season of love.

2011-02-07T20:55:00.004-05:00

Brides-to-be still in search of their dress will be elated to know that the ever stylish and fabulous Anthropologie will unveil a new bridal line on Valentine's Day next week, entitled BHLDN. From the slight preview they are allowing and their already impressive reputation, the line is expected to be drool-worthy.

2011-02-06T16:59:00.003-05:00

One of the best things about living on Cape Cod is the natural beauty that surrounds us. Occasionally, on the bleakest, coldest of days, I am reminded of this.

NOLA

2011-01-24T14:03:00.004-05:00

Well, I have made it home safely from New Orleans and roughly a week later, I have fully recovered from the barrage of fried food, sweet concoctions and lack of sleep. What a city though. It was like being on a visual roller coaster; everywhere I turned, there were photo opps and rich, southern culture surrounding me.

Rachel's apartment, where we stayed, is located in a quaint neighborhood within walking distance to a coffee shop (thank god), convenience store, and several restaurants. Upon landing Friday night, we quickly dropped our bags and headed over to the Frenchmen area for some local cuisine (delicious fried mushrooms, gumbo- and of course, beer), followed by a few stops in the area's bars to check out the music scene, before heading back to crash and start fresh Saturday morning.

We spent our first morning strolling Magazine Street eating french pastries and window shopping. After that, it was over to the French Quarter. It was a sunny, fairly warm afternoon, so we sat outside at the Gumbo House for lunch (blackened redfish for me, cheeseburger po'boy for Matt and seafood gumbo for Rachel). The architecture of the French Quarter fascinated me- such vivid colors, ornate rod iron scroll work and huge walk-through windows to the famous balconies.

That night we dined at the pizza place near Rachel's house that served amazing food, as well as a to-die-for Ginger Lemonade cocktail. After that, it was back to the French Quarter to check out Bourbon Street. I don't know if I could have prepared myself for the madness that lives on this street. We grabbed Hurricanes at Pat O'Briens and took them to the street with us as we strolled and people watched, stopping in a few other places to grab a refill and dance to a few tunes. It wasn't long before we had our fill of Bourbon and headed back to the Frenchmen area to finish the night dancing to a fabulous, fun brass band.

Sunday was our last full day in NOLA (as I learned to call it). We slept late, waited nearly an hour for breakfast at The Ruby Slipper (which was totally worth the wait) and then headed to the open air market for some souvenir shopping. Later, we managed to make it to the cemetery just before to dark to see the large, ominous and intricate above ground tombs (we also just barely managed to sneak out as the guard was locking things up for the night). Sunday evening was casual po'boys at Dominilise's before hitting the hay for our early flight out the next day.

All in all, it was a whirlwind adventure like none I have I ever had.

2011-01-11T19:09:00.004-05:00

This past Spring, I received a peeping box from the mailman with four tiny black ducklings inside. Each fit in the palm of my hand and were very close to being the cutest thing I have ever seen (second to my beautiful Lilah, of course). And even though they laid eyes on me first, it was Lilah that they imprinted to- following her around, peeping as she entered the room and protectively slept in front of their cage. Now, they live in the back yard and touch nose to beak through the fencing, or desperately waddle, try to keep up with her cantering around the yard when they escape.
Sadly, one afternoon this past fall, our one male duck simply disappeared, leaving behind his three ladies. They have been quieter since he left, not leaving the coop often. But it was this afternoon when I gave them their second scoop of feed, that I found it unusual for them to not even come out of their little house to peck a few bites. And as Matt opened up the roof, we saw why. Nestled in the straw, were three beautiful speckled eggs. When Matt reached in to pick them up, the girls stepped aside. And as he carried them over to show Lilah and I, that was when they sauntered down the ramp, ate a few bites and hopped in the pond, almost relieved.
I felt a little guilty however when we scrambled them up tonight. But they tasted delicious.

Bring it on

2011-01-01T17:33:00.002-05:00

2010 was my busiest wedding season yet. I met so many amazing people and got to share in quite possibly the happiest day of their lives. It was also one the hardest years for my friends are family. We lost several remarkable people from this world and faced some major adversities. I, as a person and a photographer, have learned so much.
2011 is shaping up to be another busy year already. In addition to shooting another batch of weddings for some beautiful people, I will be fortunate to witness several dear friends of mine tie the knot- as a guest for once!
Bring it on, 2011, I know we can do better than 2010...

October love.

2010-12-06T16:21:00.002-05:00

This fall I was called to shoot the laid back union of Ben and Darlene, a couple totally smitten with each other in that giggly, melt your heart kind of way. The intimate affair began on Sea Street Beach in Harwich, followed by cocktails and dinner at the Cape Sea Grille, steps from the beach. The couple lucked out with an unseasonably warm late October afternoon, back dropped by a stunning sunset. As I followed the couple through my viewfinder, my heart warmed as I thought how lucky I am to witness this love and be reminded of its fortitude.

Clinging to the Warmth

2010-10-20T17:23:00.002-04:00

I couldn't resist shooting these Morning Glories today as they clung to the sunshine in the late morning warmth today. Their wilting leaves are a reminder of the cold nights we have had that will soon creep further and further into to day, yet their spiraling buds and vibrant colors offer us solace.

I Never Told You You're My Hero

2010-10-14T15:25:00.004-04:00

It has taken me some time to write this post. I went back and forth questioning its relevancy and appropriateness... as well as trusting my own ability of written expression. This site was set up with a focus on my work as a photographer, and my posts allow friends, family and supporters to stay current and connected to that work. However, I believe that who one is as an artist, is directly influenced by who one is as an person. And I believe that one’s environment is the strongest element in the shaping of one’s character.
My environment is, and has always been, one of great beauty- not only in the visual sense, but in the emotional and domestic. It is because of my family that I have built a strong sense of worth, of work ethic and of appreciation of life’s blessings. Because of how I was raised, and the examples set for me by my family, I do not mind working a 10-12 hour wedding shoot. And because of the value set on family gatherings and the significance of relationships, I can see the magnitude and beauty in quiet moments, cherished times and minute details. These are the elements that aid in my shooting.
I am blessed to live in a place that is not only picturesque and charming, but provides an amazing sense of community and compassion. These qualities have been evident to me over the years, throughout different events and phases of life, but never so close to my own heart as the past couple weeks, beginning when my grandfather passed away. It has become clear to me, now more than ever, that family is a loose term, encompassing all of those who embrace you, support you and are there through the day to day, good and bad.

2010-09-27T21:33:00.003-04:00

Well, the 2010 wedding season has come to an end for me. As the days get crisper and shorter, I stay warm and renewed, confident in this generation's commitment to each other; and ever so proud to have shared in the celebration their love and been able to give them the gift of tangible memories of that day. It is in the memory of heartfelt speeches, tender looks, stolen kisses and of course, wild dance moves, that I will find my warmth through the winter...and my revived faith in love.
Congrats to all the newlyweds and thank you.

Rustic Romance

2010-09-13T20:58:00.005-04:00

Deep in the woods of Hanson, MA, down a narrow, winding road, lies a small retreat, Camp Kiwanee. It was here that Derek and Tina tied the knot, surrounded by their loved ones last weekend. I feel blessed to say that these lovebirds have become close friends of mine over the past year and I was so pleased to witness their union at such a unique location, in a celebration that truly expressed their individuality.

Bride, Tina, worked tirelessly over the past few months on her vision, creating exceptional decor details, fitting of the location and the couples lives together.

The poignant ceremony was set looking out at the still lake waters that reflected the sky, like we were floating among the clouds.

And the fact that I shot more photos than I ever have at one wedding reception, pretty much exemplifies the fact that these two certainly know how to party.

Congrats to my friends, the new Mr. and Mrs. Webber.

Sweet Sweet Love

2010-09-09T20:57:00.002-04:00

A little impending hurricane can’t stop true love... Bride, Helen, and groom, Rob, prepared for the worst last Friday as they made last minute changes to their wedding plans, moving the backyard clambake indoors as Earl threatened to rain on the, well, biggest day of their lives. Saturday arrived though, Earl turned out to be a no-show, and the festivities began with a clear, crisp, perfect September afternoon.

Everything about this sweet celebration was uniquely personal, from the ceremony held in the church that the groom’s grandmother helped build, to the reception held at an exquisite family home, to the charming readings sent from the bride’s family and friends in Australia. And the imaginative decor details by Helen were truly inspired.

Lifeguard lovebirds

2010-08-29T19:31:00.003-04:00

I love it when a couple makes sure that their wedding day is truly reflective of themselves and their personalities. Friends and family always have opinions about how things are supposed to be, but it is important to remember that this one day is really only about the couple and a celebration of their love.
Last weekend, I shot a beach wedding that did exactly that. The lifeguard lovebirds kept it casual, intimate and perfectly fitting- for them.

The In-Between Moments

2010-08-05T20:51:00.004-04:00

Sometimes the best photos, the ones that capture the most emotion, the most tenderness, are not planned at all. They are hiding in those in-between moments of a shoot, when the subject lets their guard down and relaxes, displaying their true self. It is in these moments that I flourish. I thrive on snapping that one instant that can speak a thousand words, tell a complete story, leave the viewer absorbed.

The light at the end of the tunnel

2010-06-27T12:07:00.003-04:00

There have been plenty of times when my faith in humanity has faltered. I have often wondered where the competent people are and how on Earth the inept seem to be running things. I read the news online and for every uplifting story, there are three dismal. It seems in times like these, finding hope is hard; making a difference is difficult. The mentality that one is too small is the majority and there is so much talk, yet so little action. These words could apply to so many things relevant to the now- the oil spill, our healthcare system...
But just when things in my little world seemed ultimately bleak; the light at the end of the tunnel so far away, I see a shimmering beam. It comes in the form of people with smiling faces, strength in their hands and passion in their hearts.
The woman I am proud to call my grandmother suffered a stroke on New Year’s Eve and has been in the rehab wing of the nursing home for nearly six months, fighting with everything she has to regain the use of her right side, the ability to speak again, and her independence.
Because of the hard work, perseverance and dedication of a few good people I can call family, by blood or not, she was able to return to her home this weekend after 6 months away- a fully accessible, sparkling clean, freshly landscaped, handicap-approved home.
My faith has been restored and the light seems just a little bit closer.

Fairy Tale Day for a Princess Bride

2010-06-14T14:15:00.002-04:00

Dark, daunting clouds loom over head and a cool, wet wind blows across my face as I stand at the West Dennis Yacht Club. I clench my jaw as I see the beautiful bride peeking out the window of her dressing room with a furrowed brow, both of us praying the rain holds off. The guests arrive, the groom and his groomsmen take their places and the procession begins- and a fat spit of a rain drop hits my forearm. I hold my breath. Somewhere over the Rainbow begins through the speakers and out steps the stunning bride. As she reaches her groom, kisses her father and takes her place under the arbor, I lower my camera and raise my eyes. The sky has lightened. The wind has calmed. It seems the gods have recognized the importance of this moment and held their breath. For the duration of the sweet, brief ceremony, we stay dry. Then as the newlyweds are announced, the guests cheer and bridal party walks up the aisle, the sky opens up and the rain begins. It was as if it was waiting for us to finish.

So I didn’t get to try out all the inspired ideas that I had for the bridal party formals on the beach, in the boats and on the docks. So my lens got a little wet as we feverishly snapped the family and bridal party portraits on the lawn. What I let myself be reminded of was that the bride got her wish; she married the love her life by the sea, in open air, with her closest friends and family. And it was beautiful.

Congratulations Jen and Charlie.

2010-06-11T09:35:00.002-04:00

If there was ever a couple to exemplify the idea of Soul Mates, it is Ari and Loren. The high school sweethearts tied the knot at the stunning Corn Hill beach this week, followed by a backyard reception under a twinkling tent filled with poignant toasts, joyful dancing, rocking music by the Flakes and of course, love. Never have I seen such a community outpouring of pure happiness for a couple that is clearly ideal compliments to each other. Bridesmaid and sister to the groom, Ana, belted out the melodic lyrics to their first dance. Bridesmaid and sister to the bride, Marisa, spoke of her profound love for both her sister and her new brother. And I do not cry easily, yet my viewfinder fogged up as I tried to shoot groomsman, Kai, toasting the newlyweds, noting Ari’s character, Loren’s grace and the couple’s compatibility.

It was truly the kind of day that makes me love what I do. Thank you Ari and Loren.

It's a beautiful life

2010-06-06T16:16:00.002-04:00

Spring has Sprung

2010-06-01T15:11:00.002-04:00

Spring is in full swing here on the Cape and with it comes new life and color. This past weekend I went for a lazy boat ride around Horse Shoe pond in Harwich, shooting my G9 while Matt cast out a few lines. In the late afternoon sun, the colors were sparkling and warm. A pair of Canada geese floated by with their four little goslings and lily pads blossoming surrounded us. It was quiet and fresh and the perfect end to a hectic long weekend.

2010-05-20T09:54:00.004-04:00

A friend of mine recently shared a website discovery with me (thanks Linette!)... Once Wed has beautiful photo inspiration, real-life wedding stories, diy projects and even used designer gowns for all you brides-to-be. For all things weddings check out www.oncewed.com.

The makings of a wedding

2010-05-19T21:39:00.002-04:00

This past weekend I had the honor of shooting a wedding on the beautiful Massapoag Lake in Sharon, MA. When emailed by the bride-to-be back in the fall, I was told it was to be a dual Pagan wedding. Not knowing much about the Pagan traditions and certainly never having shot a Pagan ceremony before, I did some research before their big day. I learned that Paganism is one of the oldest religions, rooted in Europe and centered around nature. Pagans believe that nature is the divine core of our universe and that there is no right path, only the path that is right for you. It also can have many sectors and branches, like any other world religion.
But my experience taught me more. From behind my lens, snapping away in the ethereal light of the setting sun, I experienced a group of people gathered for one reason- their love and admiration for two people. This wedding was so unique in its own ways, yet the same in so many others. The mother of the bride still cried. The fathers made their toasts. There was a tender first dance, several silly line dances and many outrageous dances moves. It was a day centered around love and light and hope- and isn’t that what all weddings are?

Hug your mom

2010-05-02T20:37:00.008-04:00

This afternoon, I listened to a friend's mother tell us, in shaky voice, "It is a parent's worst nightmare." Wobbling chin and teary eyes, she mutters, "I cannot begin to imagine the pain..." We silently shake our heads, lower our eyes and blink back our own tears; none of us can begin to understand the kind of pain it must be to lose a child, but we know the pain of losing a friend.

Yesterday morning, I had the opportunity to photograph a mother and her ten month old son. In the dewy grass, with the balmy May sun and the ocean breeze, I see such immense adoration. There is an unspoken commitment and bond between mother and son's eyes. I cannot begin to imagine that kind of love.

But I do know what it feels like to be a daughter. I know what it feels like to be the daughter of a remarkable mother; the kind of mother who puts all others needs before her own, who doesn't think twice before doing what she believes to be right. I know what it feels like to be the granddaughter of an amazing woman; the kind of woman who has more strength, loyalty and faith than I will ever know.

I cannot begin to imagine the kind of devotion, strength and love that comes with being a mother, but I do know the kind of respect and admiration that I have for mine, and all those that I have the blessing of knowing.

Never take what you have for granted. I have said it before, but sometimes it so easy to get caught up in the chaos of everyday life, you easily forget, or think "there is always tomorrow." But sometimes there isn't a tomorrow. Hug you mom. Tell her you love her. Call your friend that you haven't spoken to in awhile. Be grateful and gracious and compassionate.

"Grab that net and catch that beautiful butterfly- it's wedding season!"

2010-04-28T09:30:00.001-04:00

2010-03-30T20:04:00.009-04:00

Santa Catalina, Panama is a town that forces you to slow down a bit, allow your self to breathe a little bit deeper and smile a little bit easier. The heat of the sun sinks into your skin, warming your soul. The water slips over you, cooling, for a moment, and dries salty on your skin. The people all wave, smiling, "Buena....hola..." as they stroll with either a child on their hip, a surfboard under their arm or atop a mustang, herding a group of cattle down the road (this is the traffic). The children offer fish they have caught (that don't quite seem of legal size, but you accept anyways because doing anything else would be an insult); the dogs meander in and out of yards, in and out of the road (there are not many cars to worry about), breeds so mixed there is no telling what specific breed they may have originated from. Even without electricity, running water, refrigeration or some with out even floors, or beds, they are proud people- men working hard building homes in the sun all day for 15$ if they are good workers. Until my father drilled a well and offered fresh water to his neighbor, Adan and his family washed themselves, their clothing and drank from the creek abutting their land. The town closes at ten pm; no clubs, bars or hotels eliminates any light pollution and we look out at the sky like we have never seen stars before- their brilliance engrossing.
Be grateful for what you have. Savor that clean water running from your filtered faucet. Trying saying hello to strangers on the street. And relish in the fact that there are still places in the world untouched by modern marvels and free of modern chaos.

Travel Photography

2010-03-13T15:33:00.005-05:00

Tomorrow I head off to Panama for a ten day adventure. I absolutely love shooting in new places, capturing different cultures and landscapes. From what I hear of Santa Catalina, Panama- where I am headed- it is a small surf town with one main road, lots of cowboys, creatures and friendly people. I will be sure to post some of the images I get, in the meantime, here are some from previous travels.

Asuka Book Albums

2010-03-09T09:40:00.006-05:00

I am proud to now offer professional albums made by Asuka Book. They work exclusively with professional photographers to create exceptional press printed albums. I have created my first sample book with them and am beyond impressed with the creative options, customer service and quality. These books take photo albums to a whole new level of craftsmanship.
I am excited to work with my new brides in creating these story book wedding albums.

Play with Pattern

2010-02-16T15:02:00.002-05:00

When shooting, I tend to be drawn towards patterns- repeated elements such as lines, shapes and colors. I often don't even notice my attraction towards pattern until after the fact, while looking at the images on my computer. None the less, I find pattern usually adds balance and a sense of symmetry to the composition.

Spay Day 2010 Pet Photo Contest

2010-02-12T15:48:00.003-05:00

Help the Humane Society with their Spay Day 2010 by voting for your favorite pup's picture and donating to a great cause. Vote for my pup Lilah here: https://photocontest.humanesociety.org/contest.html?page=viewInd&id=69817&contestId=2

Wedding Season

2010-02-09T10:27:00.004-05:00

As Spring slowly but surely approaches and daylight lingers just a little longer every afternoon, I can't help but let my thoughts wander to wedding season. Whether its a quaint backyard celebration or a grand, sophisticated event, it is always a joyous occasion. I feel incredibly lucky to document the union of people in love and their families. I take pride in being unobtrusive, catching the key wedding moments, but also the quiet connections between people- the glimmer of a tear in the father's eye, the wink of the best man to the groom, the mother of the bride softly kissing her daughter's cheek. It's a dream to shoot these moments in the stunning settings we have on the Cape, back dropped with sun and sea and flowers. It is those moments that help get me through a cold winter day.

I Love Dogs

2010-02-08T18:00:00.003-05:00

Dogs are just about my favorite subject to shoot. Their unpredictable nature can make for a difficult shoot, yet almost always yields images that are tender, heart-warming and oozing with personality.
As my Bernese Mountain Dog, Lilah, and I begin therapy dog training, I become more and more enamored. She visits Pleasant bay Nursing Home and I see the faces of grouchy old men melt when they see her, cooing and smiling as they pet her. The nurses' faces light up when she trots down the hall. And my grandmother, who is there recovering from a stroke and learning to speak again, says clear as day "Oh hello!" (to Lilah first, then me of course).
There have been many studies claiming the benefits of simply petting a dog. Their wet noses and wiggling bodies can help aid depression, loneliness and even help lower blood pressure, aid in retrieving memory and increase mobility. Dogs seem to remind us all of simple joys in life. And they certainly display qualities we can all learn from- unending devotion, loyalty and energy, as well as an amazing degree of tolerance and patience.
So, if you own a pooch, go give him or her big hug. If not, stop by your local Animal Shelter next weekend and talk to an employee about adoption, or simply go visit with the pups waiting for a home- you will enjoy petting them just as much as they will.

It's about time

2010-02-08T12:39:00.002-05:00

Well, I have finally caved and started a blog. This page will allow me to post current photographs, share my inspirations, ideas, upcoming events, etc. More to come!