Errin Hiltbrand Photography

The last 2 weekends I’ve been a 2nd shooter. I 2nd shot one wedding last year and loved it. Both of the main photographers have allowed me “creative freedom” and so I can really shoot however I’d like and do not have the pressure of capturing anything I don’t see that moves me. It’s fantastic. I do love editing, though, and so it is hard for me NOT to edit. Luckily they both have allowed me to do just that AND share and I’m so appreciative.

This wedding was shot with Rebecca at Studio Noveau. Rebecca and I only live an hour away from each other but met in Memphis in 2011. This year is the first time we collaborated and it was lovely. Matt and Tessa are 2 very photogenic and in love people. Very sweet to one another and happy and, lucky me, have great taste. The wedding was near Tomah and you can scope out Rebecca’s blog for details on all the vendors. The only detail I remember as far as locations go was that it was held at Three Bears Lodge–neat place. I didn’t know it existed and I can see a family trip up there some day–beautiful country. My husband would say “God’s country.”

I can’t say enough great things about the family and friends that day. Riding on a bus full of young couples in love and having champagne is funny. I feel young and at one time was in their shoes… singing to my favorite Journey song, but on the ride home realized I am probably a solid 5-10 years older than some of them. I hope no one noticed me smiling and quietly singing along with them on the bus and at the reception. Such a fun group of people.

I’m not sure Matt or Tessa will ever see this blog… but if by chance you do, thank you so much for having me. It was a gorgeous day, beautiful wedding, lovely people. I could not have picked anything better myself. Especially the cottage. My heart leapt when we arrived… so personal and so much character. Best wishes to you both!

Errin

Brian and Katie. Love them. Love their location. Married in an Inn, dinner at a church. I was excited to hear they were getting married at the beautiful Mansion Hill Inn.  I try not to stress about location–it is about the emotions, the beauty if people’s happiness. But, I can’t deny–the location here was fantastic. I love this place so much. And was honored to be a part of the beautiful afternoon they had planned. And we lucked out with weather. I met them on a very cold day 2 weeks earlier. We were wearing winter jackets and it was dreary. Was nervous we would have rain as a few of our locations for portraits were outdoors. I loved that Brian commented that it must be a good sign when the photographer is excited about a sunset–and I WAS! It is rare that I’m near sunset with a bride and groom willing to head down to the lake at the same time. Very rare. And I forgot to thank them for transporting me around. What a time saver that was–I don’t get the good parking spots that those limo drivers do

I feel like I have so much to say about these 2. Very loving, sweet to one another, sweet to me, very beautiful families who gave touching speeches, beautiful Ave Maria that gave me the chills, cutest kids around… and so many personal touches. Meaningful things, a pie from their favorite bakery, that made this wedding theirs. And I cannot thank them enough for including me.

Congratulations to you both and your families. It was an honor to be a part of it.

Brandon & Erin. I was supposed to 2nd shoot their wedding and as luck had it, Alisa Buckingham Photography welcomed a very sweet little daughter into the world this February, so I was asked to shoot the wedding. And it was an honor. Had fun with their engagement session–we were lucky with lovely weather and got to shoot at a few different locations. Was nice to get to know them–Brandon so easy going and happy and clearly the reason Erin smiles. Erin cool, calm, collected, and madly in love. They were giddy–and I could tell the wedding would be wonderful because of it. And it was. How lucky were we all (here in Wisco) to have such an amazing weekend of weather? The clouds seemed to come and go at perfect timing and the sunset had that wonderful gooooey glow I love love love. Was so excited the girls were willing to take a stroll outside for some shots at sunset. Awesome bridesmaids, awesome groomsmen, great couple, happy family, good DJ, good food, good weather–it was perfect. And I can’t thank you 2 enough for making me a part of itErin (and Brandon) planned things perfectly. Lia and I had plenty of time for shots of the ladies and gentlemen before the ceremony and a solid hour of shooting with just the 2 of them afterwards. It was a lot less rushed than I normally am and I am so excited to get these photos to them. Thanks for making time for us!

Congratulations, love birds!

Ps–Brandon–I don’t know what the name of the song was that you danced to with your mom OR who sang it, but it got me sentimental—hope my boys turn out like you some day and find someone like Erin!

Just a quick note to say that May is completely booked. Most of the summer is too. I have very little openings left and apologize to anyone who didn’t get on the calendar for the summer. I’m happy to offer a referral to you if we can’t get you in. The photo above is taken at the Overture Center and the photo below across the street—which looks to be torn down soon. Happy spring, everyone!