December 27, 2015

Couple, Personal, Seniors, Weddings, Engagement

Minneapolis Lifestyle Wedding and Senior Photographer

December 27, 2015

Couple, Personal, Seniors, Weddings, Engagement

2015 was a really big year for me.

I know everyone says that every year and then they revel in all their accomplishments, personal development, and other thrilling life stories that made their year one of a kind. Then, they thank all their family and friends that supported them along the way and say they can't wait for what 2016 has to bring. BRING IT ON 2016, they say. BRING IT ON.

Well, what they don't tell you is that all big accomplishments come with some level of disappointment or hardship. I try my best to be as transparent with you all, however, in my creative world of beautiful aesthetics and perfectly crafted images, it's hard to keep up those appearances. While I don't think I portray my life as perfect or in the #LiveAuthentic sort of way, I still think there are people out there who think my life is some sort of perfect concoction of beauty and never ending excitement.

Well, it's not, and 2015 has taught me that more than any other year and I am totally okay with that.

Here's what made my 2015 bigger (and scarier) than previous years:

I graduated college a year and a half early from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities with a B.A in Strategic Communications, Magna Cum Laude (Now I'm apart of the real world. Scary).
I moved into a lofted artist community downtown Minneapolis with my boyfriend (Taking the relationship to the next level. Scary).
I turned 21 (What's scary is the price of good alcohol).

With all these exciting (and scary!) moments in my life, one could say I'm finally #adulting. While I've always prided myself on my maturity and high level of responsibilities, I truly believe 2015 was a growing year for me. To me, #adulting is more than moving into your first apartment, paying your own bills, and graduating college. It's becoming vulnerable to the unpredictable world out there. It's about growing compassionate and empathetic towards others, especially those outside your own comfortable circle. It's about growing selfless for the people you love. It's about learning to be okay with life's fabulous imperfections.

As my perspective on the real world matures, my perspective for photography also changes. I'm less worried about the technical and perfection, and more focused on the raw and authentic beauty that comes from imperfection. I want my images to evoke the movement and depth that comes from passion and love, and I think I'm a few steps closer to achieving that. I also had the honor of second shooting for some of MN's best such as Matt Lien, Geneoh, and 2nd Truth. It's other photographers like these who are constantly inspiring me to never stop.

While I am never going to be satisfied with what I do, that hunger is what will drive me to continue to improve myself. 2016 is already looking up to be a year of exploration, challenge, and even more growth.

BRING IT ON.

I am currently booking for 2016 weddings and would love to help tell your story in the most authentic, creative, and empathetic way I know how to.

-D

October 5, 2015

Diana Albrecht

Weddings, Couple

Rebekah + Spencer

October 5, 2015

Diana Albrecht

Weddings, Couple

I've always been a pretty simple person. I can remember my mother telling me at such a young age that "less is more," and while I nodded and agreed with her at the time, I whole heartedly agree with her now. Mom, you're always right.

The same thing goes for weddings. I've been to more weddings than any 21 year old ever should. I've seen a lot of different types too. From the traditional church ceremony and hotel reception, to the ultra sparkly + glam country club ordeal, and the intimate backyard weddings. My favorite weddings have always, always, always been the ones that aren't the huge, glam, and snazzy ordeals. Instead, I love the weddings that aren't forced or some huge made up production. They're genuine, warm, and imperfect in the best way.

I absolutely gravitate towards the couples who are untraditional and simple. They could honestly care less about the table seatings or making their wedding look like it came out of a bridal magazine. I'm not saying I don't appreciate pretty weddings. I do. I love pretty weddings. But, for me, I'm trying to document your day in the most authentic way. The details from your wedding have nothing to do with your love story. Sure, I care about the aesthetics, definitely, but I care more about you and your fiance. Your love. The love your family and friends have for you. Your happiness. Your story.

Rebekah and Spencer were the epitome of my ideal client. First off, they had their wedding at the Bachelor Farmer in the North Loop. With an absolute maximum limit of 50 guests, Rebekah and Spencer only invited the people they truly cared about. These were the people who truly impacted their lives in the best way. There was no fluff. No bull shit. No drama.

Secondly, these two strayed completely away from the traditional black tux and sparkly white wedding dress. He wore a nicely fitted navy suit and she wore a black chiffon evening gown from Saks. Rebekah didn't feel the need to fit into the old wedding tradition of wearing the white dress. Instead, she wore something she was comfortable in and something that felt more "her". There was no glitz. No fuss. No pretending.

Thirdly, their ceremony was literally two minutes long. Their friend, who officiated the ceremony, read a profound poem then Rebekah and Spencer read their vows, kissed, and went on to celebrating. They even left their rings at home because they didn't need a tangible object to define their love and respect for each other.

Lastly, their portraits were spot on. I had nearly an hour to run around the North Loop with these two. It was great. You could tell they cared about getting great photos, however, they were so nonchalant about the whole thing. They never took themselves too seriously, but had the perfect mixture of intimate + romantic moments and the goofy + happy ones.

Rebekah + Spencer's day was the most refreshing wedding to date. They did exactly what they wanted to and didn't let old traditions get in the way of what they wanted to do. There was nothing but love, meaningful chats, and good vibes the whole night. Oh, and the craft cocktails and delicious food was an added bonus.

February 2, 2015

Diana Albrecht

Weddings, Personal

Winter Whites // Winter Bridal Editorial

February 2, 2015

Diana Albrecht

Weddings, Personal

Whoa.

That's pretty much all I can say about this shoot.

I don't give myself the chance to do a lot of styled shoots, let alone personal shoots, but when I do, I constantly surprise myself and fall in love with photography all over again. You may be able to tell from the few personal shoots I do get around to that my personal style is a little darker compared to my client work. It's a little moodier with a little more angst. I love beauty, but I love beauty with substance.

I collaborated with Jen and her business partner Joan. Together they are L'Avenir, a kick ass vintage jewelry design line. Their eccentricity and unique eye helped bring another creative perspective to the shoot. Jen did the hair and makeup, while Joan helped style and took these fun behind the scenes photos, including the first image of the bouquet.

We were even published on MNBride.com! Jen called me when I was at the eye doctor and we were both freaking out. Check out that version here.

A huge thanks to Bella Bridal Boutique for loaning us three of these dresses (yes, the fourth dress is my prom dress...), Laura and Drea, the beautiful models, and to Elizabeth, my photo assistant! {Full credits at the bottom]