Thursday 17 December 2015

To The Beat Of My Drum...

Susie and Mark's gorgeous wedding at Manor Mews Great Barn in Norfolk, UK. Photo by STUDIO 1208
Oh these two people. This wedding, these guests, that dinner time surprise... I just love them, and hope we get to be friends for a long, long time. This is their wedding film - complete with emotion, laughs, good music, epic dance moves, beauty and sweetness. Thank you, Susie and Mark for making us a part of something so great!

To view the film, simply type: 'studio 1208' below


And if you missed their trailer, make sure to give it a watch HERE!

x
Maria

Saturday 28 November 2015

Catch My Vibe Tonight...

Jaime and Blake's destination wedding at Aldourie Castle in Loch Ness, Scotland. Photo by STUDIO 1208
Jaime and Blake are just fun people - you know when you are around certain people, and you know that by association, you will end up on some kind of an adventure, or maybe even a little trouble...that's these guys. They grab life by the balls, and I like that. Jaime is also one of the funniest girls I have ever met, and I found it hard to do my job - I wanted to just hang out with her the entire time. Blake is a little more mysterious and quiet than Jaime, but they are a perfect match, and major props to Blake for his getting the girl tactics, and that Paris video...OMG.

So, this wedding pretty much rocked - destinations are always special, but it was just so cool to be in a castle on the banks of Loch Ness, watching for the famed monster, and dancing the night away. The rain fell, but no one cared. Oh, and for the record, anytime there is a Whisky tasting at a wedding, it is just rad.

Enjoy!

To view the film, simply type 'studio 1208' below:

x
Maria

Friday 6 November 2015

You Bring Me To Life...

Oh my Lord. Susie and V-Dog. What can I say?! We were lucky enough to met these two little charmers at another wedding in 2014, where Susie was a bridesmaid, a very ill bridesmaid. She was a champion though, and although she was yellow in colour, she was still beautiful and amazing. We became fast friends and when she got in touch with us to shoot her own wedding, I was soon happy! Fast forward to the VdB's (VandenBergh) wedding day, and all systems were go. Best people, best day, best party, best drunken dance buddies AND Susie looked like a Disney princess, so I think we can call this a success!

Here is their film trailer, and of course, the best is yet to come, so stay tuned!

x
Maria

Saturday 31 October 2015

Electric Feel...

Jess and Fred's gorgeous destination wedding in Lisbon, Portugal. Photo by STUDIO 1208

Fred and Jess lived in the same apartment complex for almost 4 years - saying hi in the elevator, smiling at each other in the stairwell. It wasn't until her very proactive and wise roommate put together a happy hour, when Fred and Jess had the first of a lifetime of great conversations. These two gorgeous people are made for each other - they are effortless and comfortable, and they have each other's back. It's easy to see when you watch this film, why they chose Portugal as their backdrop, how they would have been drawn together at that Happy Hour, and why their love will stand the test of time. We are so happy to have been a part of this beautiful story, and look forward to getting to spend lots more time with Fred, Jess and their friends in the future. I mean, we love a good party, and these people know how to bring it!

To view the film, simply type: 'studio 1208' below


x
Maria

Saturday 10 October 2015

Won't Stop 'Til It's Over...

Masha and Chris...I mean, what can I possibly say except that being at your wedding was like being with family. It was a reunion, and a chance to meet so many new, amazing people. Your friends and your families, OMG, they are just incredible. This wedding was a dream - the location, Lake Como, was everything we hoped for and more, and your group definitely made the most of it's beauty and offerings.

'Take me back' is what we think daily, and to have this experience, with these beautiful people will always be a career highlight for us.

Thank you for letting us tell this story. There is so much beauty coming, but for now, here is the incredible trailer!!

#BreakTheInternet


x
Maria

Friday 9 October 2015

Blow A Kiss, Fire A Gun...

We met Fred at another destination wedding...Megan and Jeremy's Positano party of the century. We became fast friends, and all kept in touch, and almost 3 years later, it was Fred's turn to party. The first time we met Jess, we knew she was amazing. She is kind, beautiful, and so inclusive of everyone around her. She compliments Fred's personality, and his size perfectly. They are just made for each other, and we were so excited that they wanted us to tell their story.

They decided on a destination wedding in Fred's home country of Portugal, and it was absolutely beautiful! With the help of Jasmine from The Wedding Company Portugal, the event was absolute magic with dinner under the stars and dancing in a palace until the early hours.

We can't wait to show you the rest! Here is their film trailer, and keep an eye out for some seriously amazing dance moves from the guys...



x
Maria

Tuesday 6 October 2015

I'm On Your Magical Mystery Ride...

Louise and Bradley's gorgeous outdoor Norfolk wedding at Chaucer Barn. Photo by STUDIO 1208

Who said work romances were a bad idea? Who said long distance relationships don't work? If ever there was a couple who proved all the stereotypes wrong, it is Bradley and Louise!

Their relationship really does go to show, when you meet THAT person you will travel to the ends of the Earth to be with them (literally!). When Louise went to Australia for a year at the very early stages of their relationship, it could have easily all fizzled out, but Brad was determined that this was for real, and followed her out there just two weeks before she was due home. They experienced the world, and grew together, making the basis of the super loving and very fun relationship which they now enjoy.

So let's get to it...complete with stories about Facebook stalking and even its own Garage MC (Brad's brother), welcome to Brad and Louise's full wedding film!

To view film, type in 'studio 1208'


Nick
x

Saturday 19 September 2015

Shut Up And Dance With Me...

He saw her at a work function, and told her how HOT she was. She was like, yeah, whatever, dude with your Peppermint Schnapps (but she thought he was pretty hot too...). A year later, another work function, and Blake sees Jaime again, but this time, he wasn't gonna let her get away. He was so committed, in fact, that he followed her into the ladies room, and made out with her Top Gun style, like a boss. The rest is, as you say, history... They decided to make it official in a castle on the banks of Loch Ness - they professed their love, and danced the night away. It was perfect. Congrats, guys and hope to see you in Cayman one of these days!!


xx
Maria

Friday 18 September 2015

Just You And I...

I am not afraid to admit that I was literally fighting back tears editing both of Ruben and Jess's films! These two have the most honest love I think I have ever seen. They absolutely adore each other, and their family and friends are just as close. Their wedding was at the beautiful Hales Hall Barn in Norfolk and there were tears, laughs and mostly a lot of love.

So I don't want you to wait any longer! Here is Ruben and Jess's trailer...



N x

Wednesday 16 September 2015

You're Just My Type....

Love really does come wearing disguises. You don't expect to be just in work one night, things really slow and quiet... when all of a sudden, the man you will marry just walks right on in. Despite living in the same place, the timing had never been right for these two incredible people to meet. Greg and Emma took that 'lucky' meeting, and between a lot of laughs, a long distance relationship AND a move to Italy crafted a simply beautiful relationship.

They really are best friends, and they constantly keep each other laughing. And though they don't take things too seriously, the love they have for each other is a deep and very grounded one. They moved to Italy together (neither spoke Italian before they came), and it is that spirit of adventure, that ability to grow their story together, that makes them such a great match.

So... Andiamo! It's time for a little taste of Greg and Emma's beautiful Lake Maggiore wedding!




Nick
x

Wednesday 9 September 2015

Forever I See You And Me...

Matt and Alice's gorgeous wedding at Huntsham Court in Devon. Photo by STUDIO 1208

So a little while ago, we brought you the trailer of Matt and Alice's wonderful wedding. Now it's time to head back to that incredible day in Devon with their full wedding film! A beautiful venue, bikes, bunting, lawn games and an epic dance party all made for the perfect day for these two amazing humans. We adore them, and are so glad that we got to tell this story!

To view the film, type in "studio1208"


xx
Maria

Monday 7 September 2015

Calling Me Home...

I love it SO much when a couple just has fun together. For us, it’s something that gets us through the hard parts of a relationship on a day to day basis. The fact that you have that one person that you can look at… and your mouth corners turn up just a little. Sometimes they don’t have to say anything, sometimes they might just look at you or do a silly dance. The thing is, it doesn’t actually matter what they do, only that it is them doing it.

That is exactly what I see when I look at Bradley and Louise. They don’t take themselves or life too seriously, but the fun and the bond they have is amazing. Their early relationship survived Louise living in Australia but having met Brad before she left, there was always something calling her home. When you add all that to a dreamy outdoor ceremony, a ton of great friends and family and a couple of Garage MC’s…. What do you have?

A damn. good. time.



Nick
x

Thursday 20 August 2015

You've Got The Love...

A footballer and a model. Sounds familiar, right? Money, bling, flash, and all the stereotypes that come with the 'label'. But Erin and Fabio's story goes way deeper, beyond any of the surface view that most people think that they see. When people are in the public eye in any sense, it's funny to me that we suddenly think we 'know' them or that we can pass judgement on any part of their life. We all know everything about them, right?

Wrong. Erin and Fab take stereotypes and turn them on their head. What they have is simple, and so very pure. It is young love in absolute transcendency. There is no show and no pretence, no entitlement and no dissimulation, just authentic love and admiration for each other. They have the kind of joy in each other's presence where they can simply glance at each for a brief moment in any situation, and a silly smile comes over both their faces. They are truly, madly, deeply in love with each other's souls, and for us to be able to capture that, is magical.

So forget about stereotypes, shed all those predetermined views, and just watch this story unfold as we did. It is a story about a beautiful girl with a huge heart from Liverpool, and fun loving local boy from Bologna who laid eyes on each other just once... and knew straight away that they were destined to be together.



Nick x

Wednesday 19 August 2015

Alright, OK!

This has been a pretty big week for us - we have a campaign for Sweaty Betty coming out, AND we have a feature in one of the UK's largest weekly magazines, OK!

OK! Magazine feature - Model Erin O'Neill and Premiership Footballer Fabio Borini wedding by STUDIO 1208

OK! Magazine feature - Model Erin O'Neill and Premiership Footballer Fabio Borini wedding by STUDIO 1208

OK! Magazine feature - Model Erin O'Neill and Premiership Footballer Fabio Borini wedding by STUDIO 1208

In June, we went on location in Tuscany, Italy to shoot Fabio and Erin's wedding at the exclusive Castello di Casole. Erin is a gorgeous model, and Fabio is a bad ass Premiership Footballer, and together, they are two of the most down to Earth, nice people you could meet. We wanted to share their feature with you, as well as the images that are in the feature, so that you could get a better look. It was an absolutely stunning day, and these two are so beautiful together! They also donated the fee for the magazine feature to charity, as well as in lieu of gifts, asked their guests to make a donation to charity as well. Seriously, such good people! They raised over £15,000.00 for Anthony Nolan, a charity that helps find donors for those with blood cancer.

OK! Magazine feature - Model Erin O'Neill and Premiership Footballer Fabio Borini wedding by STUDIO 1208

OK! Magazine feature - Model Erin O'Neill and Premiership Footballer Fabio Borini wedding by STUDIO 1208

OK! Magazine feature - Model Erin O'Neill and Premiership Footballer Fabio Borini wedding by STUDIO 1208

OK! Magazine feature - Model Erin O'Neill and Premiership Footballer Fabio Borini wedding by STUDIO 1208

OK! Magazine feature - Model Erin O'Neill and Premiership Footballer Fabio Borini wedding by STUDIO 1208

OK! Magazine feature - Model Erin O'Neill and Premiership Footballer Fabio Borini wedding by STUDIO 1208

OK! Magazine feature - Model Erin O'Neill and Premiership Footballer Fabio Borini wedding by STUDIO 1208

OK! Magazine feature - Model Erin O'Neill and Premiership Footballer Fabio Borini wedding by STUDIO 1208


We also brought out some of our friends to help us capture the day, and we couldn't have done it without them! Thank you Jess and Adam - we share this feature with you both!

xx
Maria

Friday 31 July 2015

These Days...

It is always a pretty big honour to shoot another photographer's wedding, because I think that it is kind of the ultimate in peer acknowledgement. When the other half of the couple has also been a feature writer for Wedding Ideas magazine, someone who has seen literally HUNDREDS of weddings and photographers, well that is even more special to think that they would trust us to shoot their day.

We actually knew "Matt and Alice" before they were... well, Matt and Alice. Before they had even exchanged a banter ridden email about bicycles, or met up in the unequivocal 'Mecca' of love, Crewe Railway station.... We knew them, separately. I bet there is actually very few people at this wedding that can say that!

We knew Matt when he was just a young, single, oatcake eating photographer, working out of Staffordshire. We knew Alice as the accomplished features writer for real weddings at Wedding Ideas Magazine, where we had our work featured. It has been amazing for us to watch these two fall in love... and then to get to tell the story too?! Epic.

So here goes - tears, laughter, fantastic hats, cute dogs, fairground games, bikes, some yellow trousers and a whole lot of love... and don't let the fact that Matt supports Stoke City FC ruin this trailer for you either.



Nick xx

Friday 10 July 2015

Shia says.... "DO IT"


Thank you to everyone who has already entered our contest to win FREE wedding photo and video so far! We are loving your entries and photos! So to confirm....This is real life. Its actually happening. One lucky couple is going to win US at their wedding! You only pay for travel and associated costs. Our fee.... IS NOTHING!


To help you (make you enter!) we thought we should try and answer some of the doubts you may have with the help of Shia Leboeuf's forceful shouty voice. Full rules at the bottom of this post....





Here are the rules!

1. Go and follow us on Instagram @STUDIO1208 and @WhatWouldJacksonDo. (the competition is only running on there, so you have to do this to qualify!)

2. First, share our competition picture to your Instagram (you will find this on our Instagram)! Tag us in it and hashtag it #HookUpWithStudio1208

3. Post a rad picture of yourselves or the couple you are entering for.... Tag us in it and hashtag it #HookUpWithStudio1208

4. In the comment, tell us about the wedding, the location, your/their story, and most importantly, WHY we should pick you/them. The more we know, the better!

5. You can enter as many times as you want. Get creative!

6. You must be getting married in 2016

7. The entrants must be real, the stories you tell us must be real, and they must really be getting married.

8. And you must be awesome, and love us and our work. #duh

Monday 29 June 2015

Did I Find You Or You Find Me...

Sunny and Wally's gorgeous outdoor wedding at Malibu Rocky Oaks photo by STUDIO 1208

I die when I think that these two might not have had this film, and I thank God that they do. Sometimes still images just don't tell the story as beautifully and thoroughly as a film does. Sure, you can cover every single detail, document every second of the day - capturing real, beautiful moments, but I swear, nothing moves me like hearing their voices and the music, and watching the motion of it all. The human energy and excitement that a split second sometimes can't give you. All this said from a still photographer... Now don't worry, their wedding photos are totally amazeballs, but damn, this film is just EPIC!

Sunny and Wally are fucking awesome. I just don't even know how else to say it - I thought about how I could get the same sentiment across without upsetting my dad, but it just couldn't give the same impact. Sorry dad, but they are. I am so glad that they are in our lives, and so glad that we get to see another couple of rad people when we go to LA to see our crew - they are totally our crew now, and I love that.

Their wedding was incredible - in Malibu, on a helipad looking over the entire canyon. Her dress...her shoes #dropsthemic Everything was beautiful, everything was fun, and full of joy and absolute sincerity. I am so excited to share this film with everyone, especially Jeremy Seney. So go get yourself a drink, sit down, relax, and be in awe of these beautiful people!

To view, just type 'studio 1208' into the box below

xx
Maria

Thursday 25 June 2015

They Say The Best Things In Life Are Free.....


STUDIO 1208 contest for free video and photo at your wedding in 2016

The good life, let's go on a living spree - they say the best things in life are free!

Kanye inspired us, what can we say. We decided to do something totally spur of the moment last night, and it will hopefully mean someone will have a pretty awesome 2016. We have never done a competition - but I guess if you are going to do a giveaway, it may as well be a good one right?

So... We are gonna put this out there: if you like it, you can take it. If you don't, send it right back...

In 2016, we are going to shoot someone's wedding for free. There, we said it.

You get photo and video, and it can be anywhere in the world. Our expenses from the UK (flights, hotels, transportation, food, etc.) are not included, but our fee is completely and utterly zero, gratis, comped.... for love!

STUDIO 1208 contest for free video and photo at your wedding in 2016

Here are the rules!

1. Go and follow us on Instagram @STUDIO1208 and @WhatWouldJacksonDo. (the competition is only running on there, so you have to do this to qualify!)

2. First, share our competition picture to your Instagram (you will find this on our Instagram)! Tag us in it and hashtag it #HookUpWithStudio1208

3. Post a rad picture of yourselves or the couple you are entering for.... Tag us in it and hashtag it #HookUpWithStudio1208

4. In the comment, tell us about the wedding, the location, your/their story, and most importantly, WHY we should pick you/them. The more we know, the better!

5. You can enter as many times as you want. Get creative!

6. You must be getting married in 2016

7. The entrants must be real, the stories you tell us must be real, and they must really be getting married.

8. And you must be awesome, and love us and our work. #duh

STUDIO 1208 contest for free video and photo at your wedding in 2016

Excited? Us too! We can't wait to see all the stories and awesome weddings you have lined up. You can enter yourselves, or enter your friends but remember, the couples and the entrants must be following us to be eligible to win.

The entry dates are from today, June 25th (our anniversary!) until July 26th (Nick's birthday!) So you have a whole month to tell everyone you know who is planning a wedding to follow us and enter.

On August 1st we will decide on a winner. Good luck to everyone, and we are super excited to meet lots of rad people in love! Tell everyone about it, we want everyone in on this party!

STUDIO 1208 contest for free video and photo at your wedding in 2016

xx
M

Sunday 14 June 2015

Cool Whipped...

A boy and a girl meet. Boy is all like, "ummm, hi, I think I love you". Girl is all like, "friend zone". Boy chases girl...girl turns boy down. Repeat. Add cool whip. #Winning.

Ok, it wasn't exactly like that, but you get the idea...

John and Alex are two of the most talented human beings on the planet - a musical genius and a straight up genius that started as friends and ended up being soulmates. They are kinda opposites in lots of ways, but they just work - actually, not just work, they are the perfect compliment to each other. Finding a good partner in life is about balance, and these two have it nailed.

They got married just outside of Nashville in a beautiful barn, and their wedding was epic. Dance moves included.


xx Maria

Sunday 31 May 2015

Started In The Bathroom Now We Here...

Tessa and Andy's gorgeous Ojai wedding. Photo by STUDIO 1208

Tessa and Andy. Damn, these people are fucking awesome! I am still laughing about the title of this post because it is so accurate, and clever (+1 to me), that I literally can't even (-1 to me). This wedding was fantastic - the location, the people, the content - all authentic and beyond beautiful. Watching Tessa and Andy together was joyful and they really do compliment each other so much. This is love guys, and it is so much fun. May your adventures together be many, and hopefully we can be a part of another one soon!

To view it, just type studio 1208


xx
Maria

Thursday 28 May 2015

Started From The Bottom, Now We Here...

STUDIO 1208 Nick Bentley Maria Bentley Jackson Bentley

Wow. Finally! When we started this business just over 4 years ago, things moved pretty fast. Of course we strived even then to design both ourselves and our website to be exactly how we wanted, but you know how it is - some things simply start as place holders and never really move on. With all the travel, weddings and editing, it's very hard to run the business side and keep on top of everything! So, we could not be more excited that we finally have a website to be proud of - one that we feel really showcases our work, and more, who we are as people and artists. Just as we invest completely in the people we work with, we want people who choose us to invest in who we are as people, and eventually, friends.

We have photographed and filmed so many people over these four years, and the most amazing part to us, is that we truly have made life long friends doing it. 90% of our brides and grooms have been involved in our personal lives since their weddings, with most of those being people we would go on holiday with, or have over for a long weekend. It is awesome. Is it because we choose who we work with carefully? Is is because we attract a certain type? Is it because we are creepy? Who knows what one thing led to this, but I would like to think that it has a lot to do with the way we work, and the way we invest in our clients and all of their people. We genuinely care about them, and it truly makes a difference.

The other thing to be hugely excited about today is the debut of our new promo film for 2015. We held onto this to show alongside our new website, as we felt like it really needed that double whammy, and deserved it. Nick did an amazing job showing our work life over the first 3 years of STUDIO 1208, and we are excited for everyone to get a little glimpse into what our job looks like most of the time. It is exciting, and different, and challenging, and fun, and downright insane most of the time, and we wouldn't have it any other way. Ask anyone that knows us, or has worked with us - they'll tell you that this film IS STUDIO 1208.



A huge thank you to all of our clients for putting the trust in us to tell their stories and to seeing value in what we do, to their friends and families for welcoming us into the inner circle and treating us like one of the gang, to our families for giving us the gifts of support and belief in our talents when we were just dreaming STUDIO 1208 up, to Jackson, our son, for being the best globe-trotting sidekick anyone could ask for, to the many incredibly talented suppliers we have made magic with and trust our methods and ideas, to our über talented (and saintly patient) graphic designer, Nathan Walczak for our newly designed logo and incredible re-brand, and to British Airways for always getting us there in one piece and relatively on time. It takes a village, and we are so grateful.

Please have a look at our new site, tell a friend, and let us know what you think! Nick designed this site, and absolutely smashed it. Thank God one of us had these skills!

xx
Maria

Saturday 23 May 2015

That Is Home...

First, I want to shout out one of our former grooms for bringing these two amazing people into our lives...Jeremy Seney, you are the best - thank you for bullying Wally into watching your wedding film the first time you ever met (and countless others)!

Sunny and Wally are so awesome, and our love for them runs deep. They are people that you want to be around, they are just electric, and we just can't get enough of them. Their story starts by chance, as so many do, but it isn't often that your future husband actually walks in your front door... I'm pretty sure that when Wally went to see that apartment, he didn't realize he was already home.

Their story, their venue, their people, their dog - it's all awesome. I am so proud to call them friends, and so excited to share their wedding film trailer with all of you today! And I'm pretty sure you will all die when you see their venue...I meeeeaaaannnnnnn....!

xx
Maria

Friday 15 May 2015

I Feel Your Heartbeat Just Like Mine....

Tessa and Andy's gorgeous Ojai wedding photo by STUDIO 1208



Love really does happen when you least expect it. Tessa and Andy were not looking for it, in fact almost the opposite! But... a sneaky stolen kiss in a bathroom on New Years Eve changed the course of both their lives, throwing two very different people, on contrasting paths, together forever. The funny thing is, the more they both (Tessa) refused the relationship in the early days, the stronger it actually grew. Looking at them now, it is impossible to think of them apart.

They had a simply beautiful wedding in magical Ojai, which despite being pretty close to LA, was such a wonderful departure. It took these two and their awesome group out of the flashing lights of LA (and NYC), and created a wonderful authentic destination vibe.

Surrounded by their closest friends and family from all over the world, they started their new journey together and under the stars threw all kinds of shapes on the dance floor, including one guest's front slide that is probably the greatest dance move EVER seen. No, really... it is one of legendary proportions!

Check out their trailer, and see for yourself!

Nx

Wednesday 13 May 2015

#WINNING...

So, a few months ago, we entered into an annual photo contest that photo community leader, Shoot and Share was putting on. What is rad about this contest is that it is voted on by other photographers without sharing who took the photos, which means you win on actual merit - not popularity (not that there is anything wrong with being popular, but I don't like having to ask people to vote for me - I will, but I don't love it).

It is worldwide, and it is huge.

Anyway, you could submit up to 40 images over 21 categories...

Out of 110,928 images submitted, 23,153,465 votes cast, and 73,883 photographers represented, WE WON FIRST PLACE in the "That Just Happened" category with one of my favourite images EVER!
Shoot and Share contest winner "that just happened" category by STUDIO 1208

How's THAT for a photobomb?! This guys was next level he DGAF, and as I was shooting, he just walked right in - so I kept shooting, obvs! It is my fave moment, and I am so excited that it made people laugh the same way it made all of us laugh on the day - and still.

We also placed 7th in the "Wedding Party" category with this image of the beautiful Gabby and her girls jumping and dancing on the couch
Shoot and Share contest winner "wedding party" category by STUDIO 1208


And 13th out of 13,701 images with our iconic image of Bryan and Kim in the "Bride and Groom" category
Shoot and Share contest winner "bride and groom" category by STUDIO 1208

Sincere thanks to everyone who voted, all my rad clients, and to Shoot and Share! Still don't know who won the grand prize, but if it's us, we will let you all know!
xx
M

Saturday 28 March 2015

On Top Of The World...

We don't usually get to be a part of engagement parties - usually people find us once all of this stuff has happened already. It is so cool to get to be there with the couple and their friends and families so early on, and when they are as awesome as Jon and Jane, well, that is the best. This was definitely a party to end all parties, and we loved being a part of it...and maybe having a few drinks with Jane's brother too...



xx
Maria

Wednesday 18 March 2015

100 years of Happiness

Courtney and Matt's gorgeous Saddlerock Ranch wedding in Malibu, California. Photo by STUDIO 1208

When you head to Picnic day at college, usually the only thing you end up afterwards with is a hangover that could slay a walrus and IF you are lucky, your dignity still relatively in tact. It's probably NOT the place where you could ever imagine finding your one true love... But that really is the beauty of love, it follows no pattern, rhyme or reason and seeks to throw two souls unwittingly together almost always when we least expect it.

That is exactly what happened with Matt and Courtney. A chance meeting at the bar led to an incredible journey together, a proposal on a plane (by the pilot) over Santa Barbara and then finally to this - their wedding day. These two incredible people are just meant to be together, and they simply light up when they are around one another. So, surrounded by the most wonderful friends and family, they tied the knot at the beautiful Saddlerock Ranch in Malibu, and danced the night away under the stars. As one of the maids of honor so beautifully said in her speech that night, Cent'anni!

"To one hundred years of happiness"!

**Simply type studio 1208 below to watch**


And if you haven't seen the trailer yet, you can check it out HERE
Nick x

Sunday 15 March 2015

You Were Always One Step Behind...

Jeni and Oscar's gorgeous destination wedding in Sayulita, Mexico. Photo by STUDIO 1208
This wedding film. Tears! Every. Single. Time. I guess when you have known the bride since you were only 13, it is natural to feel extra emosh about watching her make a commitment to the greatest guy in the world - the guy who truly compliments and gets her - her complete and utter soul mate. The thing is though, it is more than that. Yes, I have known her forever, and yes, I love her like family, but what makes me weep (like, really weep), is their story and seeing these two badasses be soft and totally raw about their feelings...it is like the greatest thing I could have ever dreamed of. It breaks me.

I can't tell you how much I think everyone should watch this one - yes, it is the long cut, but I swear to you, you will feel so much - laughter, tears, you will make that face you make when your jam comes on, and you will get to experience pure joy for two people who are so completely in love. Most of all, you will get to see that love - insane, beautiful, perfect love is possible to find, even in the most daunting of circumstances.

Timing is everything.

And if you haven't seen their wedding film trailer yet, you definitely need to give it a watch too!

**Simply type studio 1208 below to watch**


x
Maria

Tuesday 3 March 2015

Goin' Up, On A Tuesday...

I seriously can't watch this trailer again. I think this is the most emotional, heartfelt wedding story I have ever had the pleasure of telling, and have sat in front of my iMac sobbing while editing this film. Geez, I get a lump in my throat just when the opening note of the music starts. I am SO tired because it's literally draining to watch - in the best possible way.

Jeni and Oscar were destined to be together. After dating 14 years ago, they walked very different paths for a long time, and something bigger than them brought them back together. The thing is, I can't even properly describe their love for each other. They have this incredible connection that very few people find in their lives, but the absolute gratitude that they share in having found each other, is something beyond the word 'love'. Spending those few days in Mexico with Jeni and Oscar, with absolute bedlam all around them (Mexicans + Tequila + Bunnies = Carnage!) I just watched their relationship exude a feeling of utter contentment and a deep peace with one another.

No matter what was happening - they were always right there together in the moment. A momentary glance across the party, a shoulder rub by the pool, tears, laughter and lots of dance moves. I guess if you get a second chance to find that thing that makes you happiest in the whole world, you grab it with both hands.

We often tell stories of chance meetings, and fate conspiring to bring two people together, but Jeni and Oscar's story is not exactly like that - and maybe why I like it so much. I love these two souls and their relationship together and it really gave me a different perspective of finding another person in your life. When we lose something precious, and we look all around and still can't find it, then I guess you don't have to be completely heartbroken. Everything and everyone has a place to be. It’s just a matter of how they get there and when. Even if it seems like the chance has gone - you still have that child-like part of you that provides a comfort, knowing that one day when you grow up and are free to travel your own path, you can go and find it again.
#SobbingAgain


Nick x









Friday 27 February 2015

I Woke Up Like Dis...

We got to work on a rad project on our last trip to California, shooting modelFIT's pop up shop in LA. They ran classes all week, kicking asses into shape through a mix of pilates, yoga, balance stability and functional training.

If you haven't heard of modelFIT yet, it is the fitness brainchild of Vanessa Packer and Justin Gelband, and they are already shutting it down over in NYC. Victoria's Secret models are there rubbing shoulders with us mere mortals on the reg. Teaming up with Sweaty Betty, Beaming and Fiji, the LA pop up a huge hit, with famous babes like Julianne Hough, Jamie Chung, Riawna Capri, Chrissy Teigen, Jen Atkin, The Haim sisters and Taylor Swift all making an appearance.
If it's good enough for them, it's good enough for us! Looked like super hard work from behind my camera....


modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208


modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

modelFIT LA popup at Catchlight Studios with Sweaty Betty and Fiji photos by STUDIO 1208

Nx

Monday 23 February 2015

As Long As I Got You, Baby...

Brittany and Willem's gorgeous Southern California outdoor wedding by Sitting In A Tree Events. Photo by STUDIO 1208
On a beautiful, warm (ok, pretty hot) day in Southern California, Brittany and Willem were married in an outdoor ceremony under gigantic trees, surrounded by all of their closest friends and family. To say the day was perfect would be an understatement, and to say that these two are kinda cool or pretty good looking, would also be a gross understatement. I can't forget the best man, Spencer's speech, when he said "Anyone who meets them wants to become their friend - anyone who is lucky enough to become that friend wants to stay that way forever." How true that is. These people are good - great, even..and the people they surround themselves with just proves that you are the company you keep.

Even if you stripped back all of the beautiful details, the beyond gorgeous location and the impeccably styled..everything (thank you, Sitting In A Tree!!), this wedding would have been wonderful and memorable and perfect. It is about the people and the commitment to being absolutely present in every moment - letting everyone in to the magic that makes the two of you a team. All the rest is the icing on that perfectly styled (and delicious) wedding cake!

We couldn't be happier for Brittany and Willem and their inner circles. Thank you all for letting us in and throwing the best party ever. And to the girl who lost her damn mind during "Turn down for what"... you are my spirit animal, and I love you!

And if you missed their beautiful trailer, please check it out HERE

To view the film, simply type: studio 1208

xx
Maria

Sunday 11 January 2015

Rozayyy Errr Dayyy...


I just love Sundays…the idea of sleeping in, eating a nice brunch, and just enjoying the day at a pace only to be described as lazy. Usually I like to do nothing work related on a Sunday (if I'm not shooting), but sometimes, you just feel really excited about something, and you kinda feel like a kid on Christmas. That's how I feel about this next film we are about to show you.

In the post for their wedding film trailer, I already talked about how Priscilla and I met, how epic their wedding was, how delicious everything was, how ridiculously good looking they are…and I touched on how much we love these people. I only touched on it because I didn't want to give everything away just on the trailer, but WE LOVE THESE PEOPLE. Like real love. Like going on vacation together love. They are the finest of the fine, the highest quality in human that you can get, and we get to keep them. It's just such a bonus to work with people that are so RAD! We miss them and their people, we miss their party, and I know a certain little boy who misses P's croissants…that sounds so wrong. But I miss them too.

It's with great honor and joy that I share this wedding film with all of you. Watch for Misha's entrance into the party and for Priscilla's serenade to her man (you can also find out what she was singing if you listen closely!) EPIC.

To view the film, simply type: studio 1208

xx
Maria

Saturday 10 January 2015

I Loved You Then And I Love You Now...

Happy Friday, everyone! Tough to get back into the swing of things after a nice holiday season, but we are so excited to share this wedding film trailer with you today! Not only is is gorgeous, but the story is beyond sweet too. Bonus!

Courtney and Matt met in college…you know, frat guy meets sorority girl, but more like super nice handsome guy meets beautiful go-getter girl. As cliche as it may sound, these two were completely meant to be and they continue to prove this with how they support each other through triumphs and tribulations. That's what it's really all about, isn't it? Being there for each other in a way that no one else can be, and being a support system for your partner through the good and the bad. Courtney and Matt are a great example of this, and the love they have for each other is impossible to ignore.

We loved being a part of their day, and the hilarious, sweet, thoughtful, teary moments we got to share with them and their nearest and dearest. They really are a great team. Speaking of team, we also loved working with the ever amazing Amber and her posse of badass ladies from Amber Events, who made this wedding truly spectacular in every way! Can't wait to share the rest of this amazingness with you!



xx
Maria