Monica & Jack: A City Romance at the Old Treasury Building
As a Melbourne wedding photographer, I first met Monica and Jack just a month before their big day. Naturally, they were a little anxious about the tight timeline, asking, 'Sorry for the short notice, but is it still possible to capture something truly special?' My answer was simple: 'Mission possible.' We immediately set to work mapping out a journey through Melbourne’s most iconic locations—starting with the timeless Old Treasury Building, moving through the lush greenery of Fitzroy Gardens, capturing the urban pulse of Flinders Street, and finally arriving at Longrain, a magnificent 1900s stable reimagined as a modern industrial sanctuary.
The Morning: Effortless Elegance
On the wedding day, I joined Monica in her hotel suite just as she was finishing hair and makeup. Monica mentioned she didn't feel naturally "photogenic," so I opted for a documentary-style approach. By minimizing interruptions, I allowed her to feel at ease. The hotel was a photographer’s dream; floor-to-ceiling windows flooded the room with soft, natural light, complemented by a gallery wall of modern architectural photography. I captured a series of quiet, elegant portraits of Monica by the window. To showcase the intricate detail of her gown, I guided her through a slight turn, capturing the grace of her train in the morning light.
The First Look
Soon after, Jack called from the lobby, buzzing with anticipation. I scouted a quiet corner on the ground floor with soft white curtains to create a clean, intimate backdrop. As Monica approached and tapped his shoulder, Jack’s reaction was pure emotion. They locked eyes, held hands, and shared a deep embrace. It was the "money shot"—a moment of raw, unscripted love.
The Ceremony & Celebrations
Breaking from tradition, the couple walked together to the Old Treasury Building. The ceremony was short, sweet, and intimate. As they emerged as newlyweds, their guests lined the steps, cheering and waving in a beautiful celebration of their union.
Strolling Through the City
Our first stop for portraits was Fitzroy Gardens. The tree-lined paths provided a canopy of lush greenery, offering the perfect soft, shaded light. As they strolled hand-in-hand, I focused on candid moments. At one point, Jack whispered something into Monica’s ear; I couldn't hear the words, but her subtle, joyful smile told the whole story.
On the way to Parliament House, we spotted a vintage ice cream cart. Given the heat of the afternoon, it was a lucky find! Seeing them share a vanilla cone was such a charming, unscripted moment—a highlight of the day that perfectly captured their playful side.
The Reception: Longrain
We concluded the day at Longrain. Before the guests were seated, I captured the exquisite details of the reception: the long banquet tables, shimmering glassware, flickering candles, and floral centerpieces that perfectly matched the venue’s industrial-chic aesthetic. For the grand entrance, Monica and Jack appeared on the loft balcony overlooking the dining hall. Standing below with a wide-angle lens, I captured the "storytelling shot": the couple sharing a kiss on the balcony while their guests looked up from the banquet tables, clapping and cheering. It was the perfect finale to a beautiful city wedding.
