Shooting with the Youngrens – What I learned

Several weeks ago I had the pleasure of tagging along with the Youngrens as the third shooter for one of their weddings. I was first introduced to Jeff when he and Erin became the PUG leaders in San Diego. I knew from the beginning that they would stand out. They are honestly great at whatever they do, whether it be building a community, shooting a wedding, or just being a friend, they simply rock. Needless to say, I learned a lot from them.

Here are a few tips, tricks, and photos that I took away from the day:

Be psyched – I showed up to the wedding location to meet Jeff and Erin for their second wedding of the weekend. I couldn’t find the place, it was nearly 100 degrees, and to be honest I was kind of nervous. I quickly realized this is no attitude for a shoot with the Youngrens. Jeff was so excited; he literally seemed like a kid on Christmas morning. Erin was super chill, ready to rock the day. It reminded me to set my fears and petty frustrations aside and just be psyched. Cause when you’re psyched, the clients can’t help but be psyched too!
See…
In fact, at one point Jeff got so stoked about a shot he had taken, he jumped up and down, waving his hands in the air! At first I was just smiling and thinking, “what do I do here?” But then I was like, “Hey…I want to get a shot that makes me jump up and down too!” Btw, when I do, I am going to say, “I just pulled a Jeff Youngren!”
LOVED how Erin directed the formals!

Dress the part – It’s worth investing in gear that  a. gives you look professional b. makes your job easier. Jeff and Erin not only looked super cute, they had their Shoot Sacs and GoBee Bags strapped and ready to go. Jeff rocked an additional piece of clothing that sure came in handy, a single sweatband. I loved it cause it was sort of 80’s and it made for great conversation…oh, and it also kept the sweat out of Jeff’s eyes ha (it was on his wrist, not his head)! He’s also really good at pinning on boutonnieres…

Let yourself get lost in the emotion – Every couple has a story. Throughout the wedding day, I noticed Jeff and Erin thinking about, engaging in, and getting emotional about this couple’s story. I think sometimes we forget what this day means to them, what the vows really symbolize, and how special their story is. So go ahead…shed a tear or two (not going to say which one of us did).

Thank you again Jeff & Erin, keep kickin’ booty!