My name is Parris Whittingham and I’m a wedding photographer who believes in remarkable love stories.

In 2002 when I was studying abroad in Brazil, I was more focused on writing than taking pictures. In fact, as my friend Jane recalls, I didn’t even own a camera then…

Parris was the only student without a camera. He claimed it was ridiculous that people would take pictures of each and every thing. He felt it was a waste and would only confuse our memories. Sometimes, however, he would ask one of us from the group of exchange students to take a picture and give him the photo later. Now that I think about it, I see that Parris probably had an eye for the moment and would only have a picture taken if it really mattered. This, I believe, makes him the unique photographer he is today.

Over the year that we studied abroad, I had the chance to learn that Parris was very much into writing. Most of his writings were simply observations without interpretation. It was up to the reader to find the meaning.  It seemed that his writing was an attempt to unwind this huge knot of life that we are all tangled up inside of. Parris sees the moment and captures it.

My favorite photographs capture fleeting moments of unbridled expression with laughter and joy being my favorites.

Every couple I’ve photographed has taught me something amazing that benefits my personal life. I’m happy to speak about these five couples who have inspired me:

1. Christine and David are really good at supporting each other. Hearing their story reminded me that many relationships are shaped by defining “make or break” moments. Even though they’re Canadian, when David was accepted to study Economics at Columbia in the States, Chrissy decided she wanted to be right there with him. Now they live together in New York City.

2. What’s better than living your dream? Marrying someone who understands that dream, supports your vision, and is doing the same for themselves. Almost a year ago, David quit his desk job and started working on a local farm in New York. This allows him to pursue his passions: culinary arts, agriculture, writing and photography (even a little film). Lindsay is a dancer and actor who is constantly on the move between shows, rehearsals, and wedding plans. Lindsay and David are the kind of people I’d read about and seen in movies. I was blown away to learn that they exist in real life.

3. Nicolina and Luke opened my heart with their wedding celebration. I want to say more but I think I have it best in the first sentence. And in this case, the image says it all.

4. Patty and Jamie are two leaders with strong personalities and quick wits. This photograph was captured in Patty’s old neighborhood during their last weekend living in the United States (they live in Singapore now). What I love is about this photograph is that Jamie could have chosen to be a grumpy face (sucks when that happens to my umbrella). Instead what might have been a forgettable moment, turned into one of the most memorable from the day.

5. As men, we’re conditioned to be stoic and reserved. This moment from the wedding of Jaclyn and Mick was heartfelt by everyone in attendance (you know that tingling feeling). As a photographer, I live for these occasions when the story of an experience helps deliver a “decisive moment” like this.

In the digital age, cameras are standard. Ironically, the challenge of creating outstanding photographs remains unchanged: the ability to anticipate and document once in a lifetime moments.