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Everyone stood. Ciaran had the most electric smile I have ever seen as his attention was focused on the Brigalias’s big chapel doors. And then there she was… Brittany looking stunning and angelic all in one, walked down the aisle with her lovely, strong and incredible mother, Lisa. It was quite a vision. Watching a mother give a way her daughter is always meaningful, but witnessing the overwhelming love and affection that Lisa had for both Brittany and Ciaran had my eyes watering and my heart singing.
Ciaran has been a part of their family since the beginning. You can tell just by seeing the way he interacts with all the Bromfield women that he was considered a brother and a son way before Brittany and Ciaran said “I do.” He is warm, joyous and has the kindest heart I have ever seen; which meshes perfectly with Brittany’s welcoming demeanor, loving nature and strong spirit.
From the first time I met Brittany, I knew she was someone special. The way she described her love for her Ciaran was incredible and heartwarming. I could not wait to photograph their wedding, and let me tell you… it was even better than expected.
Every detail was extraordinary as we walked through the beautiful venue. From the Chapel windows, to the amazing Willow tree all the way to the romantic, wooden swing in the back. Everywhere we turned was picture perfect and every time I picked up my camera and aimed it towards Brittany and Ciaran, the only thing I could see was their deep, infamous love for one another. I feel like the luckiest photographer in the world to have witnessed and captured their forever love.
Brittany, Ciaran, I cannot wait to see where life takes you. Your love and commitment to each other will be able to take on every battle life throws at you!
Vendors : Venue: Brigalias | Dress: Bridal Garden | Videographers: Cinescope Films LLC | Hair and make-up: Daneene Jensen and Associates | Florist: Always beautiful Floral Design | DJ:
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“I’ve had a lot of big decisions to make in my life, Sophie isn’t one of them. Being with her is hands down the best and easiest decision I have ever made.” Yossi said as my heart melted into a huge pile next to him. The best word to describe Yossi and Sophie’s love is absolute. They are absolutely best friends. Absolutely supportive of each others hopes and dreams. And absolutely and completely in love with each other.
It is one of the coolest feelings in the world to see someone you grew up with build a beautiful and strong relationship with their one and only. I have known Yossi for years, we went to Middle School together and I can still hear his shocked gasp as he stuck a hairpin into a wall outlet in the middle of our morning prayers. If you told me then that I would have the pleasure of witnessing his absolute love for Sophie, I would not have believed you.
For their engagement session, we walked around Dumbo Park on the hottest Sunday in January, It was an incredible day, we created a ton of awesome photos, talked about our lives and sipped on some kick-ass Brooklyn coffee. As I drove back home to Philadelphia that night, I was grinning from ear to ear.
Sophie is one the kindest women I have met in a very long time. Her energy and her genuineness makes you warm from top to bottom. Her smiles brightens the room, her wit makes you laugh, and her excitement for life makes you excited for life. She has this way of talking to you that makes you feel like you are the most important person in the room.
Yossi is just as kind. He has this ability to relate to everyone and anything. He is sharp, sincere and very funny. He had me laughing the entire engagement session and more importantly, he had his Sophie smiling and giggling the entire time too. There is just so much love between the two of them. It is so real, so strong and so very absolute.
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I was sitting at a family brunch on New Year’s Eve when I received a text from Brittany asking about a photography session for their save the dates. It was a text I was hoping to get. Since I started dating Robert, I have heard so much about this driven, easy to talk to, incredible woman, Brittany and this vibrant, sweet and totally charming man, Greg. Now, not only do I get to meet them, but I also get to photograph them! Nothing could make me happier. As I answered Brittany’s text, I couldn’t help the butterflies; I was as giddy and as excited as a school girl.
A week later, as the snow was covering the ground, I found myself sipping my favorite tea at La Colombe and chatting with the lovely Brittany. We ended up sitting there for hours talking about everything and anything. From wedding plans to Law School. From us both having a horrible sense of direction to hearing all about Greg’s big proposal. And from Philly styled pretzels to favorite cafe orders. We just clicked and I left our meeting feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
Brittany, Greg and I decided on an engagement session at the end of January. I was mentally preparing myself to be freezing, all three of us were. Luckily, with our crazy East Coast weather, our winter session ended up being 55 degrees. I was in awe. It was meant to be! I grabbed my gear and my light jacket and headed to Center City towards their apartment. The city was bustling and vibrant. There were people everywhere and I just couldn’t wait to start clicking that shutter.
From the moment Greg opened the door a feeling of warmth and familiarity rushed over me. I’ve met Greg in passing before, but this was my chance to really get to meet him. Just like Brittany, he was even better and even more personable than expected. I felt like the luckiest photographer in the world. I got to spend a beautifully warm January day with two new friends doing what I love the most; capturing love. And let me tell you, there was plenty of love to capture. Those two could not stop giggling from the moment we left the apartment to the moment I showed them their photos. It was a sight to see and I loved every second of it. Brittany and Greg have this incredible energy, independently and together. It was an honor and a joy walking around Center City, creating photos together, eating Philly Styled Pretzels and getting to know two wonderful people who I wish nothing but the best to.
Brittany, Greg I hope you have the happiest ever after and I can’t wait to spend many more afternoons laughing and chatting with the two of you.
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A few days after our couple’s portrait session, I received a phone call from Rob.
“So…big news!” he said, and my heart skipped a beat. Alyse was pregnant. I just knew it.
“Guess!” Rob continued.
“I don’t know” I said, worried that I might be wrong.
“Come on guess!” he responded.
“Alyse is pregnant!?” I asked with a big fat question mark. Immediately wanting to take back such an inappropriate question
“and…?” I felt a rush of relief.
In that moment, all I could think about was a conversation I had a few years before this one. It was with my sister, Shana. She called me to tell me the big, exciting news.
“TWINS!??” I asked imagining my niece and nephew. I could hardly contain my enthusiasm
“Yes!”
A few months later, I received another phone call from Rob and Alyse. This time, instead of sharing the big news, they wanted to set up another session. They were about to become parents for the first time and wanted to capture this very special era in their lives. As I listen to them describe what they wanted from the session, all I could do was smile and say “Yes!” I felt honored to be a part of their growing family.
It ended up being a terrific December day. The sky was clear and the wind wasn’t too cold as Alsye, Rob and I walked around Batram Gardens in Philadelphia. For a woman who had two babies in her belly, Alyse was a champion. She was down for anything I asked. Rob was equally as awesome. Our session was just as calm as it was energetic which felt very fitting. Alyse and Rob are the perfect combination of relaxed and excited. They are laid back and easy to get along with, but also passionate and animated about the things they care about most.
Working with Rob and Alyse was a dream come true the first time and now that we are even more comfortable with each other, it was even better (hard to imagine). Alyse and Rob have this playful, fun energy that flies between them but they also have mutual respect and love and it is obvious to anyone who sees them together. The two of them, as individuals are incredible, but together are going to make one amazing set of parents who will lead their family to conquer anything and everything life throws at them. I am happy to announce that both baby Morgenstern’s and Mama Morgenstern are healthy, happy and doing well. Thank God!
Alyse, Rob, Adina and Baby Boy Morgenstern, I wish your family the best in every sense of the word. I cannot wait to continue photographing your family as you grow and flourish.
Sending my best to you all!
-YPP
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Julia is fiery, intelligent and gorgeous. From the moment we spoke on the phone, I knew Julia and I were going to get a long just fine. She impressed the hell out of me. Julia founded and runs this amazing organization called Kids at Play. An organization that is devoted to providing each child with individualized attention and therapeutic care. In other words, Julia is one kick ass woman. Although Nick doesn’t technically work there, you can find him building shelves, moving things and helping out in his free time. Nick is not only an incredible person, but an awesome husband, funny man and an amazing spirit. They would do anything for each other and it is evident in every look, every smile and every hand graze.
When Julia and I spoke on the phone, we referred to our session as a secret mission. She was surprising Nick with it for their one year anniversary and what I quickly figured out is that there was only one location of choice, the one place that means the most to them, their bench in Wissahickon Park. This is where Nick proposed. Well, let me explain, they both planned on him proposing there, but that is part of what makes Julia and Nick so special. They are a team. They make their decisions together and are one amazing unit.
After one year of marriage, you can tell that nothing makes Julia and Nick happier than being together and I so lucky to have had the chance to capture their love with my camera.
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2017. What a year. Not only was it the year that brought us the obsession of fidget spinners, the creation of the legendary Romphim and the comeback of the black leather chokers, but it was one hell of a year for YPP. When I think about this past year, one word comes to mind; unbelievable. Don’t get me wrong, there have been ups and downs. There have been weeks that I have felt like nothing could get me down. There has been days that felt like nothing was going right, and then there were those moments when I felt like I was the luckiest person in the world. I am proud to say it has been one awesome, creative and busy year. I could not thank my friends, family and clients enough for all of their support. Yael Pachino Photography has grown and flourished this year because of all of you.
I wanted to take this time to show you a little bit of what I do and what Yael Pachino Photography is all about. Here are my top 10 favorite 2017 moments captured by YPP (please note, these are not in any particular order, I absolutely love all of these photos). These are the photos that had me running past Robert to my computer to upload them immediately after I got home. These are the photos that I love, that I cherish and that keep me inspired to do more, do better and grow as a photographer, a professional and as a person. These are the couples, the people that make me smile and work harder day in and day out. So without further ado here are the Top 10 YPP Photos of 2017!
When Sylvia and Shmuel arrived at the City Hall of Philadelphia during one the hottest days of the summer, I could tell that it was going to be one fantastic afternoon. With the sprinklers going off at Dilworth Park, the sun shining bright, Sylvia and Shmuel were down for anything and never once complained about the heat. This moment is one of my favorite of the year for so many reasons. First off, look at the two of them. Sylvia’s stance is strong, feminine and sassy. Shmuels pose is manly, casual and comfortable. You can feel the love flowing between them through their eyes and their smiles. And then there is the light! I love the way the light falls onto the walls of Philadelphia’s City Hall.
Jaleel contacted me from overseas. A navy man who could not wait to propose to his girlfriend, Katylnn. As he walked into the restaurant, his smile was filled with nerves and excitement. We went out back and set up the shot, Jaleel could not stop smiling. Finally, we got the text that Katylnn was on her way. As I was hiding in the bushes, waiting for her to arrive, I laughed to myself. This girl had no idea what was coming! She didn’t even know what country he was in and all the sudden there he was, in front of her, on one knee. A week later we had their engagement session and I had the pleasure of capturing this photo. To me this photo expresses everything they feel for each other. Love, admiration, security, happiness and a future that looks bright and joyous. I love this moment it is totally and completely Katlynn and Jaleel and I feel honored to have witnessed their love.
When I met Tracy and Norman I felt right at home. As I walked toward the beautiful Memorytown ceremony location, right on the edge of a small pond, I saw a man putting up adorable photos near each aisle, casually drinking a Miller, and I laughed to myself because Norman was the calmest groom I’ve ever seen. Tracy was just as relaxed as she sat in front of the mirror getting her hair and make-up done. She pointed to her cowboy boots and her sunflowers and I knew this wedding was going to be special and completely and totally unique. This photo was captured within seconds, as Lee Shelly of Lee Shelly Photography was setting up his shot, I saw the light, I saw the pose and asked Norm to do one small thing, kiss the heck out of his wife. Everything about this photo makes me happy.
I absolutely love this photo. Coreene and Eddie had their ceremony at this gorgeous church right near the National Harbor. The day was slightly gloomy and rainy but that didn’t stop Coreene and Eddie from having an incredible wedding day. With New Orlean’s traditions laced through the entire day, I couldn’t have asked for a more fun, welcoming group of people. Coreene was stunning and Eddie was handsome as anything. This photo was right outside of the church. Every time I look at this, I smile. I am absolutely obsessed with the blue reflecting against the window, the architecture of the church and their casual, yet intimate pose. Coreene and Eddie make being in love look so good!
What can I say about Shifra and Yaakov, as we walked around Gantry Plaza State Park, you can see the respect and admiration they had for one another, it felt as if they had been together for decades. But at the same time, these two love birds were laughing and joking the entire time, as if they were two teenagers madly in love. For their 1 year anniversary, they decided they wanted to have a couple portrait session and a maternity session all in one. I’ve never met a couple like Shifra and Yaakov, so full of life, goofiness and excitement. They got married, settled down, had graduate school and a baby on is way all in one year. Just look at how happy they are to be side by side, partners in crime, in this crazy journey called life. Between the skyline in the background, the expressions on their faces and the way Yaakov is holding onto his unborn child (who, by the way, is now born, alive and named Sari), this photo makes my heart happy every time I see it.
Renee and Colin’s wedding was a dream come true. It was probably one of the largest weddings I photographed this year, but you could tell that each and every person there had a very personal and special relationship with the couple. It was truly amazing to witness. Renee looked amazing and Colin was dashing as hell. These two met in college, they lived in the same dorm and you can tell, by looking at them, that they spent the years since growing together, pushing each other to do better and become the incredible people they are today. There was so much love, so much joy and so much passion at their wedding and I could not have been happier being a part of their wedding. Renee is absolutely stunning in this photo. Her eyes look vibrant and bright. The window lighting shapes her face perfectly and her soft and casual smile makes her entire face light up. Plus, her eyelashes are on point. I love wedding portraits that highlight the unique beauty of my brides and this is one of my favorite bridal portrait of the year.
With Brittany’s sister, Sydney, there to help with outfit changes and make-up checks, we had an incredible time capturing their engagement session. I knew these photos were going to be gorgeous the moment I met Brittany and Ciaran at the Cherry Hill Panera Bread for their Wedding Consultation. There is an energy that buzzes between Brittany and Ciaran that is electric, warm and ever-lasting. No matter where they are, what they are doing, you can feel they are connected. They are not only in love, but best friends who have each others backs no matter what. This photo is one of my favorites because it says so much about Brittany, Ciaran and their relationship. There is a warmth and a calmness that is only created between two people who know each other and love each other the way Brittany and Ciaran do. I hope that we all have this kind of love!
When I met Courtney, 7 years ago, we were just two University of Maryland students trying to make some extra money working at one of the local college bars while earning our degrees at the best school in the country (I might be a little biased). When I met Gary, very shortly after, I knew that this was it for them. I knew they found the one they were going to spend the rest of their life with. They were committed to each other but also gave each other the room to grow as individuals, which was an amazing love to witness. Courtney and Gary are best friends first, boyfriend and girlfriend second (now fiance) and partners in crime third. Their bond is strong and beautiful and this photo means so much to me on so many levels. I love that I had the chance to go back to one of my favorite places in the world to capture the love between two incredible people. Maryland will forever be a part of me and I just can’t get over how beautiful the light is in this photo. The hair light alone makes my heart skip a beat. With McKeldin Library in the background and Courtney and Gary curled up snuggling in the foreground, this photo is one of my favorites because it sums up what it feels like to spend the rest of your life with your college sweetheart.
Ehmud called me an hour before our desired start time. He was surprising his wife, she just graduated from grad-school and she was nine months pregnant and all she wanted was some maternity photos so he thought this was the perfect time to have graduation photos and maternity photos. He gave me his address and I was on my way, snow was falling, cars were not moving but I was on my way! When I finally arrived, Eliana was utterly confused. She had no idea who I was and what I was doing there. Within minutes, we were out back in their beautiful winter-wonderland capturing the giddiness and happiness of two people about to be parents. Turns out, within 24 hours, Eliana was rushed to the hospital to bring their beautiful and healthy baby girl into the world. Perfect timing. This photo is one of my favorites on so many levels. The happiness and love that shines through makes my heart full, the snow gives it that extra special touch and the expressions on their faces are priceless.
Julia and Nick are truly an incredible couple that support each other and care for each other in every way. They spend their free time building shelves together for Julia’s non-profit, Kids at Play, cooking together and hiking together. They took me to the one spot that means the most to them, the place he proposed. Well, let me explain, they both planned on him proposing there, but that is part of what makes Julia and Nick so special. This photo is very special to me. Not only do I love the way the light falls on the wall, but I love the passion of the moment; the love that is so evident between Nick and Julia. I just cannot believe a place like this exists right in Philadelphia.
When I met Lauren and Tony for the first time, I thought, well that is a couple who is going to be laughing their entire life together, and guess what they did during their engagement session, laugh. A lot. I couldn’t be happier. We laughed all over Old City, Philadelphia and it was the perfect way to spend an early November morning. As we walked around you could tell that Tony and Lauren just loved to be with each other. Tony looks at Lauren with such love and admiration and it is evident that they are meant to be. I love this photo, there is so much joy, happiness and silliness and isn’t that what it’s all really about? Finding someone to love, cherish and laugh with?
I know, I know, there were 11 photos here and I originally said 10. Don’t worry, I didn’t miscount, I just couldn’t choose! I am so incredibly thankful to everyone who let me be a part of their love story, their families, their big days, their celebrations, their traditions and everything else that comes in between. There is nothing I enjoy more than seeing a couples eyes light up when they see their engagement photos, seeing a mother of the bride shed a tear as she flips through her baby’s wedding album for the first time or seeing what kind of incredible portraits we can create running around with a two year old. 2017 has been one incredible year, and I know that 2018 will be even better. Cheers to all of you and I cannot wait to see what 2018 has in store for you!
Happy New Years!
– YPP
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The Bromfield family has a way to make you feel welcome and loved from literally the second you meet them. When I met Sydney at a Love from Liam event we instantly connected. She mentioned that her sister was looking for a wedding photographer and I could not have been happier to get an inquiry from Brittany Bromfield within an hour! A few days later, we were on the phone chatting and I knew that this family was something special. Brittany and Ciaran have been together for 6 years, they have been through highs and lows, they have counted on each other, loved each other and proved time and time again that nothing could bring them down. You can see how big their love truly is with every glance and soft smile.
Brittany knows exactly what she wants and has a smile that shines from miles away. Ciaran is super sweet and easy to get a long with. The two of them together are an unbeatable team. The moment you walk into Brittany and Ciaran’s house you can feel the love and care that went into creating their home together. It’s in every small detail, every nook and cranny and every piece of furniture. The love is real and so beautiful to witness.
I cannot wait to photograph their wedding day!
Here’s to you Brittany & Ciaran. Thanks for making your love shine through.
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It was the perfect fall morning, the trees were finally showing their colors after what must have been one of the warmest falls of my life. I could not wait for our Old City engagement session; Old City is one of my favorite Philadelphia neighborhoods and it was a quite Saturday. The weather was right, the location was right and now I just needed the couple!
As I was sipping my coffee, I looked up from my parked car right next to Race St. Pier and I couldn’t help but smile. I saw the sweetest couple getting out of their car, laughing with each other, having a great time. I knew from that instant that Lauren and Tony made one kick ass couple but I could never have guessed how awesome they truly are.
Lauren’s positive, easy going and lovable personality shines through with just “hello.” Tony’s humor, intelligence and kindness are evident in his eyes and even from 30 feet away, you could tell that he has the biggest soft spot for his bride. Tony’s dance moves and carefree nature had Lauren laughing up a storm and I could not be happier with the joyous and gorgeous moments I was honored to capture.
Lauren, Tony, I am so excited to capture your big day! I know your wedding will be just as cool, just as fun and just as amazing as you guys are!
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Courtney was one of the first people I met at the University of Maryland. I remember like it was yesterday, we were sitting in the kitchen at Cornerstone Grill and Loft during my second training shift when we started chatting about this guy named Gary…apparently “he was super cute.” We bonded quickly and I felt like I finally made a friend at college and I could not have be happier.
All through school, I remember running into Courtney and Gary either at the court yard near our apartments, at the local bars, on the beautiful campus, in the cafe at the library, etc… Everywhere I turned, there they were, being cute and in love.
As time went on, I had the chance to really get to know Courtney and Gary. Courtney turned out to be the best, first friend a college girl could ask for. Courtney is smart, easy going, intelligent and always fun to be around. Gary ended up being way more than just super cute, he is definitely one the sweetest guys I met during my time at UMD and his excitement for life is contagious. Watching the two of them together has always made my heart smile.
Fast forward a few years and there we were, the three of us, back in College Park, MD walking across the mall towards the kissing bridge and all I could feel was complete and total joy to be back there with those two. Maryland meant a lot of things to me, but the people I met, the friendships I made, are irreplaceable.
Seeing Courtney & Gary together, planning their wedding, talking about their future felt as right as peanut butter and jelly. You could tell, by just looking at them, that they have been through thick and thin and nothing will knock them down. They are best friends, partners for life and each others biggest supporters and it was an honor photographing their engagement session. It really felt like I was capturing the past, present and future all in one moment and in one very special place.
Courtney, Gary… I cannot tell you how excited I am to be able to continue to witness and capture your love story on June 16th when you finally tie the knot!
Love always,
Yael
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The moment I heard Shifra’s laugh on the phone, a mix of comfort and happiness fell over me. Shifra is relatable, witty, smart, easy to talk to and hands down one of the coolest women I have ever met. Even over the phone, Shifra’s presence and personality shined through. The way she described her relationship with her husband, her family and her life, it was obvious that she was the kind of person that makes everyone feel warm and fuzzy inside. Within five seconds of meeting Yaakov, I completely understood why they worked so well together. Yaakov was just as sweet, funny and easy going as Shifra. Together, they make one hell of a team and it was truly an honor getting to photograph them as a couple.
The best way to describe our photo session at Gantry Plaza in the City is playful. Shifra and Yaakov are down right goofy. They show their love through making each other laugh, being silly and having a great time no matter what the situation is. It is evident that Shifra and Yaakov are ready to walk through life, hand in hand, enjoying every minute to the fullest. Together, they will be able to face any challenge and every obstacle that life hands them.
Shifra, Yaakov, your marriage is inspiring, your friendship to each other is beautiful and your love is one of a kind. Thank you for letting me be a part of your beautiful love story.
Cannot wait to continue watching you grow as people, as a couple and as a family : )
-YPP
Work With Yael
My mission is to not only craft images, but really celebrate the unique spirit of Jewish love. I'm here to honor our culture, capture the magic of your love, create family heirlooms for your future and do it all with a whole lot of heart and soul.