This sparkler exit took place at the end of a fantastic Kimmel Center wedding. Weddings at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts have a unique, artistic feel. There are few places that promote the arts more than the Kimmel Center, and having a wedding there is a terrific experience. One of the reasons for the great experience is that it’s catered by Garces Catering. I believe they’re one of, if not THE finest off-site caterers in the region.
I’m often asked about trends in wedding photography. I find that more and more brides and grooms are doing these sparkler exits after their wedding receptions. They're a fun, exciting way to cap off a perfect day. Of course, there are always a few challenges. One is that it’s not a terribly good idea to give drunk people the chance to play with fireworks… Another challenge is that you’ll need to have enough lighters in order for everyone’s sparkler to be lit before the first ones go out.
When I shot this sparkler exit at this wedding, I had to be careful not to get burned by these guests waving their sparklers around! The strategy as a photographer is to walk back with the couple as the sparklers are illuminating their faces so that I don’t need to use a flash. I prefer to have their faces lit by the actual light coming from the sparklers so it looks very natural.
This sparkler exit was the perfect ending to this fabulous Kimmel Center event!
Location: 300 S. Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19102.
1/200; f/2.8; ISO 8000; 24.0 mm.