Why So Serious?
When "Sophisticated Weddings" photographed James "Murr" Murray and his (now) wife Melyssa for their magazine feature, it was actually the first time the couple had been photographed together. As the star of TV's "Impractical Jokers" and a seasoned stand-up comedian, James was no stranger to being in front of the camera. Melyssa... not so much. So, understandably, she was nervous.
This happens to couples on their actual wedding day all the time. A wedding is a joyous occasion. But the day is also highly anticipated, quite stressful, and long. Some brides and grooms might take a swig of liquid courage to get through the photos. However, that's not really advisable. You don't want booze on your breath as you meet your fiancé's distant relatives for the first time. You certainly don't want to be tipsy or droopy-eyed. And you may not have had much to eat- if anything- at time of your photos.
We came up with something else to break the ice at the beginning of the shoot, and ease Melyssa's nerves. Levity! We had a cheap, pharmacy rack, plastic water gun at the ready.
James and Melyssa had hoped to play it straight with their photo shoot. No goofiness. We had the same goal. However, introducing the water pistol for just 90 seconds of photography loosened the couple up by giving them something a little fun and silly to focus on, rather than the reality and seriousness of a magazine photo shoot.
We're not suggesting your wedding photos should be treated as anything less than serious. But if you're feeling too serious, there are ways to take the focus off your nerves; hugging, sharing a slice of cake... or pulling out an orange squirt gun. It worked for James and Melyssa!
