I hadn’t had the opportunity to work with Chrystina of Straughan Photography in almost two years when she asked me to help her second shoot this JW Marriott wedding in the San Antonio hill country. But, when she asked and I was available, I immediately jumped on it. I always love getting out and helping my fellow colleagues any time I can.

As mostly customary for a second shooter, I got to hang out with the groom and groomsmen before the ceremony. They were a lot of fun—typical groomsmen—cutting on each other, making jokes, and eluding to punch lines I had no understanding of (probably thankful).

JW Marriott Wedding—San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa
This hill country wedding was super gorgeous! The ceremony took place in the Wedding Pavilion which overlooks the 18th green of the AT&T Oaks Golf Course. You can literally see hills for miles. Such a pretty landscape.

My favorite parts of Michele and Will’s wedding night were probably the cigar roller, the fact that the dance floor was never empty and their glow stick exit. The only mishap of the entire day, as far as I could tell, was when Michele’s veil didn’t want to stay on during the recessional. But it made for a good image. And, she kept on trucking… didn’t even seem to bother her.

I also love when the ceremony guests are asked to bless the couple. Definitely one of my favorite parts of a ceremony… well, besides the kiss. (If any photo geeks are reading, this was shot at f22.)

The couple’s parents planned the surprise indoor sparklers for their first dance. They also planned a getaway car! The couple had no idea about either happening on their wedding night.

The last thing I would like to say is that this wedding was the third time I’ve had a camera unexpectedly stop working in the middle of a wedding ceremony since 2010. Noteworthy… twice it has been Nikon’s flagship (most expensive) model. The moral of the story is to always hire a photographer who has backup gear!
Enjoy some of my favorite images from this JW Mariott hill country wedding then be sure to watch the slideshow at the end!
If you’d like to see more images from this Texas hill country wedding at the JW Marriott, please enjoy this video. For the best quality, be sure to change the video player settings to 1080 HD.
**The images contained in this blog post were shot under the direction and for assignment of Straughan Photography. The images are copyrighted but used herein with permission.
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About Ata-Girl
I am San Antonio’s most unique wedding photographer. I specialize in a 10-day image delivery, same-day prints, same-day slideshows, Italian handcrafted wedding albums and I have a mobile meeting space.
I am a full-time, internationally-awarded and WPPI-C certified professional wedding photographer based in South Texas near San Antonio. I offer a premier and personal service coupled with an unforgettable photography experience. I cater to clients who appreciate quality photography and help them to create family heirlooms that will last for generations.
I started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. I enjoy documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I love being a part of people’s journey and consider myself privileged to document their legacies.
When I’m not photographing a wedding, I love to spend my spare time hiking, camping, cycling, reading, listening to Elvis and Prince. The most important things in life are for me to see my two daughters happy and to create a family history my grandparents and grandson would be proud of!
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