Destination

Sasha and Brian | An Iberian Romance Part I of II

Destination shoots always carry a beautiful sense of impalpable wonder. Being captured in a foreign land that holds a distinct significance and symbolism for the couple elevates the overall experience during the shoot, as well as the connection not only between the couple and the environment but also with me as the lensman. Spain is a beautiful tapestry of rich culture, breathtaking architecture, and heartwarming cuisine, and these factors alone make it very easy to fall in love with the country and peg something special to link with it. This is also the reason why this pre-wedding shoot is one of the few that deserve a two-part blog series. An activity that started under the bright blue skies of Madrid and the postcard-worthy streets of Seville, Sasha and Brian really took the shots and made some picturesque moments, all forming a wondrous visual campaign. It was an absolutely charming experience like no other. Sasha and Brian managed to successfully cross the tightrope of blending in while standing out. Love was definitely present, and despite some challenges, especially in points of interest where shooting was extremely constrained, those challenges were compensated by alternatives that yielded better angles and brighter shots. There is always something special seeing a place for the first time. And being a first-timer in Madrid, I can’t help but just be in awe and appreciate the moment beyond the lens. Something unique, something worth experiencing, and something so immersive into life and the passion we are pursuing. Watch […]

Cebu Wedding | Miya and Ken

It has been several days into 2024, but I read somewhere that the new year doesn’t officially begin until we publish our first blog post. So here we are, sharing with you one of our favorites and most beautiful from 2023, the Cebu wedding of Miya and Ken. We traveled to Cebu seven times last year to cover one beautiful event after another, and this particular gem of a place has continued to touch and thrill us. Everything about this wedding is to be deeply admired and appreciated. Details, impeccable. Feels, poignant. Bride, gorgeous. And anything in between those are things to behold. Even the fluctuant weather sort of timed itself ideally so as to add excitement rather than disrupt. The wedding gods blessed us on this one, and we got glorious photos to show for it. My gratitude goes out to Miya and Ken. These two have been nothing but modest, accommodating, and warm – an amalgam of everything we dream for our clients to be. Of course, being good-looking is not a requirement, but it didn’t hurt that they are. So, as we uncover the new year, may this post serve as an inspiration of things to hold on to and of things to hope for. Happy 2024, everyone.

Iloilo Destination Wedding | Wedding of Pia and Alvin

The wedding of Pia and Alvin marks only the second time that we travelled to Iloilo to cover a wedding. But it is a every bit special as our previous experience in the said province. Pia and Alvin has been nothing but accommodating with us that we feel like we are guests of the wedding instead of their photographers. In fact I think that this is the first time that we actually had a night out after the wedding reception that included both the groom and the bride – honeymoons as I realise, can always wait. lol! Shooting along a racetrack with a helicopter was also something else. Weddings like these are really the ones that we fondly remember and talk about even after so many years and we have both Pia and Alvin to tank for that.

Mikey and Monique | A Butuan Pre-wedding Special

No one would guess that in Butuan, we will be able to find such immensely interesting and beautiful spots to shoot a pre-wedding. No me, not Monique and Mikey. But we are lucky enough to be friends with fellow photogrpaher Shayla and her husband, Jimbo, who are not only now based in Butuan but are spearheading the eco-tourism efforts there. They showed me what I can expect when I shoot there and i was quickly sold – and so were Mikey and Monique when I passed on the idea to them. Thus late last year we ventured to a place we almost knew nothing about and got the surprise of our lives. From enormous oil barges that looked like the set from the movie Waterworld, to incredible waterfalls,enchanting lakes, and centuries old fishing devices – we were able to shoot concepts that we haven’t done before. Huge kudos goes to Monique and Mikey who not only took the risk to shoot in Butuan but also braved all the hikes and climbs that we did. It was truly an adventure all throughout and we have all the photos to show for it. Our immense thanks go out again to Shayla, Jimbo, Marlon, and John of Watergate Hotel for being such amazing hosts. Enjoy.

Kat and Leon | Las Casas de Acuzar Pre-Wedding

I like going to new places for shoots. Whether it’s local or international, I get excited whenever I’m in a new environment. I’ve done shoots before at Las Casas and the Metrophoto team has done quite a few recently. It was my first in a long while and so many new additions have been made at the complex. The challenge here is to shoot in a different perspective and do a unique shoot. I always try to look at places with different sets of eyes to make the most of the location. Whether it’s my first or my nth time, that has always been my approach to keep everything fresh. Styling: AJ Alberto Makeup: Cherry Pacheco Video: Rupert Nicolas for Bob Nicolas Metrophoto team: Billy Yu

Anne and Don | Cappadocia Pre-wedding Photographer (Part 2)

Be sure to check part 1 of this 2-part Cappadocia series of Anne and Don. There are so many things to talk about today’s Cappadocia pre-wedding shoot feature: about how great it is to be back shooting here again, about how we had some interesting ideas from the previous trip that we were able to execute this time around, about how this amazing place just never gets old, and many many other things. But the best thing about today’s feature of this Cappadocia engagement session is that mere descriptions don’t give it justice. We have a breathtaking set of photos and a wonderful behind-the-scenes video that will not only show you how unique this experience is, but also take you there, exactly where the heart of the action took place. From the Cappadocia hot air balloons, to the primitive stone churches, and all the beautiful spots this part of Turkey has to offer, we made sure that we show what Cappadocia is all about, and more. Very grateful to Anne and Don for letting us experience Cappadocia once again. Enjoy. ____________ Suppliers: Photo: Oly Ruiz Make-up: Mark Qua Styling: Adrianne Concept

Gelen and Anton | Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar Pre-wedding

As we stepped out of the car and into our location for Gelen and Anton’s pre-wedding, it was like we suddenly time-traveled to Old Manila’s glory days. We were surrounded by classic architecture, gallant landscape, and extravagant waterworks. Even though the sun did not greet us immediately, we were thankful. The greyish sky added to the beauty and effect of the location. Not only that, we were able to see how Gelen and Anton’s love can light up any place we shot in. Their sunny personalities made it easy to work with them and lift our spirits. It’s was a beautiful sight – to see a new love in an old and nostalgic place such as Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar. Enjoy! _____________ Suppliers: Photo: Dino Lara Styling: Aira Franco-Capistrano Venue: Las Casas Filipinas De Acuzar

Dana and John | An Antipolo Beehouse Pre-wedding

I am an avid believer of the saying “There is beauty in simplicity.” I believe that there is so much more than what meets the eye. In simplicity, there is intimacy, sophistication, and elegance. Dana and John, a fun-loving couple decided to do their shoot in The Antipolo Beefarm, where they were embraced and surrounded by the silence and the beauty of nature. Looking comfortable in such a serene environment, it was a joy to see them seemingly one with nature. Enjoy! ______ Suppliers: Photo: Dino Lara Hair and Make-up: Mikka Marcaida Venue: Antipolo Beehouse

Janet and Christian | Boracay Wedding Photographer

I have worked with many brides in the past—business owners, artists, professionals and the like. But today, our feature is all about 2018 Miss Philippines USA Janet Hammond and her now husband Christian. With the salty smell of the sea, the bright sun, and family surrounding the bride and groom, Janet’s beach wedding held in the beautiful island of Boracay nothing but shouted simplicity with elegance. I always say to most of our couples that 80% of our brides and grooms are not used to being in front of the camera, Janet is definitely one of the exceptions. It is certainly true that she’s a woman who delivers with the best of her capabilities. Enjoy! ________________ Suppliers: Photo: Erron Ocampo Video: Cinemaworks Coordination: La Belle Fete Make-up: Jelly Eugenio Hair: Paul Nebres Styling: Bonita Penaranda Event Styling: Gideon Hermosa Bride’s Gown: Berta Bridal Groom’s Suit: Nat Manilag