Bare Odds on Junebug Best Engagement Photos of 2019
#BareOddsSessions in Japan
26 December, 2024
Hey Oddies! Big news from the Bare Odds family – our talented photographers, Mikhael and Leon, just scored double in Junebug Weddings Best of the Best Engagement Photos 2024! Check their winning photos and a little story behind it.
1. A PLAY AT THE DUNES
Jun and Eka live in Sydney, which is why, from the beginning, they wanted to
explore other nearby spots besides the cityscapes. That’s how we ended up
embarking on a 3-hour drive, covering 200km to the north from Sydney, to reach
the Sand Dunes in Anna Bay. Well, that was the initial plan.
But the sun set early that day, and we knew we wouldn’t get to Anna Bay on time.
So, we stopped at the closest dunes in Stockton instead. We were surprised by
the scale and how tidy it looked - like someone had made it ready before we
arrived. Honestly, we thought we might have come in the wrong way because we
didn’t see anyone else, and fighter planes flew over us througout our session
there.
What I like most about the winning photo is absolutely the contrast. It’s as if
the clouds choreographed an opening scene across the bright blue sky, setting
the stage for the arrival of two lovers in black outfits, ready to become the
main characters in such a perfect backdrop. Well, at least in my eyes, it
resembled a theatrical stage telling a story of its own.
2. A SECOND FOR LOVE
Almost every couple I’ve captured in Japan has always wanted Shibuya Crossing to
be included in their itinerary. No one is to be blamed; it’s iconic. However,
the hard truth is that it’s actually not an easy spot for a couple session,
resulting in many references from my portfolio or other photographers appearing
quite similar.
But on that day with Daniel & Valentine, I made a promise to myself to be more
mindful and pay closer attention to things happening around me. “There must be
something we can do with this Shibuya session,” I thought, even though I didn’t
have a clear plan.
When we arrived, I simply directed them to stand in the middle of the bustling
crowd, facing my camera. Then, suddenly, I noticed a couple hugging within my
frame. Subtly, I hinted for them to kiss and composed them along with the
embracing couple. I crazily burst my camera while slowly adjusting its position
to get the composition just right because I knew it was only a matter of seconds
before everything changed. And that’s how
I captured this moment. :)
Special thanks to Junebug Weddings and panel of judges this year! It's truly a celebration to see our work alongside such exceptional talent from around the world! Check the complete gallery here.
