I was a bridesmaid for a traditional Chinese/ modern Western combo wedding yesterday. Far more comfortable wielding a camera than a bouquet, I enjoyed the insider benefits of photographing preparations in the bridal suite and such, to which the hired male photographers didn't have access. Yet, without the pressure of having to properly cover an event. As I lack photo editing programs here in Hong Kong, I'll save people photos for a later post.

The western ceremony was aboard a Chinese junk - a boat with large red sails, often featured in tourist advertising for Hong Kong. The truth is, these boats are only ridden by tourists and hired for special events. The view of both sides of the harbour were excellent, and I kicked myself for not bringing a wide angle lens with me (when traveling, there's only so much I want to carry). Above: the view from the top deck of the junk. There's a ferry crossing our path. I became very conscious of passing boats, as our boat bobbed in their wake - try standing on heels on a sloping, bobbing surface in the wind while holding a bouquet or camera & champagne glass. Anyways, If I had photoshop, I'd bring brighten and warm the pic, bring out the reds. And straighten the horizon.

It was my first experience witnessing a traditional Chinese wedding ceremony. Ideally, the bride wears close toed non-strappy gold shoes, but the wedding planner and bride compromised on red shoes. When perusing a western female wedding photographer's portfolio, there will inevitably be photos of the wedding accessories. I learned why: it's fun! And shoes, dresses and jewelry are such easy subjects; they don't move, I can pose them, I don't have to talk to them. OK, all that and they're pretty and important to most brides.