The groom rests against the remains of an old shipwreck, on display at Pinney Park in Sturgeon Bay. The wreck was lifted from the nearby waters--Pinney Park is a boat launch area near the mouth of Sturgeon Bay--and placed on display.
One of the things I love to do is incorporate the look and feel of Door County in wedding photographs. Couples who choose to marry here often do so because of the area's gorgeous scenery. There's a lot of history here, too--and it's on display in different areas. Like this shipwreck. Or the graffiti-covered boathouse on Anderson Dock in Ephraim. Or old fishing tugs in northern Door County or Washington Island.
The couple married in Sturgeon Bay and then held their reception at the bride's parent's home nearby this park. The outdoor area, high on a bluff, overlooked the waters of Green Bay.
The day was hot and the sun blazing at the park, without shade, but the bridal party was game for photos, including several other great images at the same park location. It just took a little ingenuity to work the lighting situation.
Door County is absolutely rich with scenic vistas, water views, woods and meadows. But it's also rich with "props" like this one that allow a more close up and intimate portrait, that are unique to the area.
Location: 4879 Bay Shore Drive, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.
1/200; f/2.8; ISO 100; 92.0 mm.