At the Domaine de Selmane in Nieppe, Leena and Jonah said “I do” surrounded by the people they love. A wedding where emotion was everywhere: in their eyes, in their words, in the eyes of their guests… and even behind my camera. A look back at a day that touched me deeply, plus a few tips so that you too can put your loved ones at the heart of your wedding.
Boundless kindness
Leena and Jonah struck me from the very first moment with their boundless kindness. They overflow with love, for each other of course, but also for everyone around them. A look, a kind gesture, a word for everyone: they take care of others naturally, and you could feel it at every moment of the day.
The ceremony took place in a church with large stained-glass windows, beneath high vaults bathed in light. A solemn setting for a very tender moment.
Moving words
Leena and Jonah weren’t afraid to show their emotions. Texts written for the occasion and read aloud, hands held tight, moving words, unfiltered and heartfelt. And I’ll admit it: behind my camera, a little tear fell.
That’s when I understood that the heart of their wedding was their guests. Every exchange, every hug, every smile told of the bond they share with their loved ones.
“What a joy to have had Camille by our side! Very funny and so pleasant, she let us forget about the camera completely.” (translated from French)
When the newlyweds forget the camera, the photos become sincere. That’s exactly what happened that day.
A getaway for two
Between moments shared with their guests, Leena and Jonah treated themselves to a little break for two, in a vintage convertible with white bodywork and red leather seats, among golden fields. A few minutes out of time, fits of laughter and looks that say it all.
The Domaine de Selmane, a country retreat
Nestled in the Flemish countryside in Nieppe, the Domaine de Selmane is a fully renovated former farm surrounded by tree-lined gardens. A venue with a homely, rustic feel that matches its newlyweds: warm, simple and generous.
Putting your loved ones at the heart of your wedding
You can’t order a wedding “full of emotion”, but you can prepare for one. Here’s what Leena and Jonah confirmed for me, and what I recommend to couples who want a day centred on the people they love.
Dare to say it
A speech, a letter read aloud, a few words for your parents or friends: sincere words create emotions that nothing else can replace. And that’s often where the most powerful photos are born.
Take time with everyone
Plan a long enough drinks reception and time to go round the tables. Your guests will remember the time spent with you far more than the menu.
Get your loved ones involved
A reading, a surprise, a song, a game: giving your guests a part in the day is a way of telling them how much they matter.
Keep a moment just for the two of you
Even on a day centred on others, treat yourselves to a short romantic break. These few minutes let you catch your breath and take in what you’re experiencing… and often produce the most tender portraits.
Let your photographer go unnoticed
Tears, fits of laughter and knowing looks can’t be posed. The more discreet your photographer is, the more genuine these moments remain, and the more your photos reflect who you are.
My photographer’s tip: let me know about any planned highlights (speeches, readings, surprises). I can then position myself facing those who are listening: their faces often tell the emotion best.
What about you?
Thank you to Leena and Jonah for their trust, their generosity and this shared moment of emotion. Do you dream of a wedding where your loved ones are at the centre of everything? Discover my wedding stories or write to me: I’ll be delighted to tell your story, and that of the people around you.