Film Inspired Summer Wedding on the Lake | Documentary Photographer

Kyndal Capps
17 hours ago
3 min read

As a film inspired wedding photographer, I believe the best photos are the ones that feel. The ones that take you back - the laughter, the movement, the energy that existed in that exact moment. My approach is a mix of documentary storytelling and editorial detail, creating imagery that’s both timeless and nostalgic.

When I arrived at St. Clair Inn for Courtney and Tommy’s summer lake wedding, I knew it was going to be one of those days you never forget.

Bride in lace dress and groom in tux run hand in hand on a wooden dock by the water, smiling. Lush grass and stone wall in background.

A Film-Inspired Summer Wedding at St. Clair Inn

The morning started slow — the kind of quiet that feels intentional. Light rain tapped against the windows while laughter echoed through the hallways. Courtney and Tommy spent the morning surrounded by their closest friends, dancing in the kitchens, clinking glasses, and soaking in every unhurried moment before they said I do.

Even with the drizzle, the energy was calm and joyful — the kind that reminds you that no weather could ruin a day built on love like this. And sure enough, by the time Tommy straightened his bow tie and Courtney stepped into her dress, the clouds parted and the most beautiful Michigan sunlight poured over St. Clair Inn.

The Ceremony on the Water

Their ceremony overlooked the lake, framed by white blooms and soft waves. Guests filled the rows of white chairs, the air warm with that golden, early summer light. When Courtney walked down the aisle, the wind moved just enough to catch her veil — one of those fleeting moments you can’t plan, but are always so stoked when it happens.

As a documentary and film inspired wedding photographer, these are the moments I live for — the small, unposed ones that say everything. The way Tommy’s hands shook slightly as he waited. The way the sunlight danced across the water while they exchanged vows. The way the crowd exhaled together when they kissed for the first time as husband and wife. Those are all an integral part of telling your story.

The Dreamy Blue Hour

After the ceremony, we explored the dock and gardens, letting the evening unfold naturally. The colors shifted as the sun dipped behind the lake — soft blues and that hazy in-between glow that makes everything feel cinematic. Their portraits from this part of the day feel like stills from an old movie — timeless, romantic, and real.

This is why I love documentary-style wedding photography. It’s not about perfect poses or timelines. It’s about energy. Movement. The way a day feels. And this one? It felt like magic.

The Celebration

As the night went on, the dance floor filled, champagne flowed, and the air buzzed with that “we never want this to end” kind of happiness. Courtney and Tommy’s people showed up big — laughter, hugs, and the best kind of chaos all night long.

Guests raise glasses in a toast at a formal dinner table. The room is elegantly lit, creating a celebratory atmosphere.

A couple at a wedding near a large white cake. The groom gestures playfully with a fork while the bride smiles with eyes closed, in a bright room.

Black and white photo of a wedding party scene. A couple kisses while others dance and smile around them, creating a joyful atmosphere.

People in formal attire dance at a lively party. The setting is dimly lit with colorful lights, and guests hold drinks, enjoying the celebration.

People joyfully dance, arms raised, in a lively party setting. They're dressed in formal attire, with colorful lights creating a vibrant atmosphere.

People dancing at a party, dressed in formal wear. A couple embraces, vibrant lights with blue and orange hues create a joyful atmosphere.

Experience their day through motion — the wedding film we created captures the energy and emotion that photos can only hint at.

Ready to Create Something Timeless?

If you’re planning your wedding and want that nostalgic, film-inspired feel — the kind of photos that look like your memories — let’s chat. I’d love to tell your story through my lens!