Erika Gerdemark Photography - blog

My new blog is launched!

2009-03-02T16:34:00.005+01:00

It's about time! I have a NEW BLOG! Check it out! With more information, larger photos and a different design it's a new chapter of my life and business.

www.gerdemark.se/blog

Fire and flash

2009-02-24T15:51:00.022+01:00

Swedish Barbro and British Simon gathered their closest friends and family in Skebo bruk, north of Norrtälje, February 21. The ceremony started with a torchlight procession and the rings were exchanged indoors at the veranda. My new lens (a Canon 50 mm, f/1,2) was priceless at this dark wedding. The portrait session was shot indoors with studio flashes since there were no daylight to get at that point of the day.

I really liked Barbro's silvergray dress, it matches perfectly with her look and the winter theme. Fire are always very impactful at winter weddings. Barbro and Simon had a torchlight procession, a fireplace and torches that were heart shaped, that made their wedding even more beautiful.

For those of you who are planning a intimate wedding I can strongly recommend Skebo herrgård. It was a really nice place with a professional and helpful staff. I even got a shot of the cake before I left.

The underestimated expression of a child

2009-02-18T09:55:00.004+01:00

You can see that she is happy, but she don't have a big smile on her face, and her eyes have a more seriously expression. I think it's an underestimated expression of a child in a photo. For me this is the real Emma. Not that forced laugh because I point my camera at her. The photos are from last summer when Emma swinged in the same swings as I did when I grew up.

Black and white theme

2009-02-16T15:57:00.010+01:00

Clustret at Söder Mälarstrand transformed into a black and white wedding dream in the beginning of February. I shot some photos to Event design who had put together the decor. All 130 guests entered in black and white clothes, and at the mingle tables the color of the sweets of course followed the theme (black liquorice boats and white marshmallows).

London couple in Swedish foggy winterland

2009-02-09T17:50:00.030+01:00

I woke up last saturday and got lucky when I looked out through the window. It was a dreamy, foggy Stockholm and I was headed to Täby to shoot a wedding! The swedish-british couple Rebecca and Gerald had decided to marry in Sweden and in Täby kyrka February 7. After the catholic ceremony the party continued in central Stockholm at van der Nootska palatset.

Mia's timeline in Amelia brud & bröllop

2009-02-06T13:37:00.006+01:00

I photographed Mia and Mikael when they married August 9 2008. August is the most popular month to get married, so if you are planning your wedding in August you should immediately book your favorite photographer! In the latest issue of Amelia brud & bröllop you can read about Mia's timeline for her wedding. She planned her wedding with her high school sweetheart for 1,5 year. Click on the picture to read the article.

Colorful Valentine with Interflora

2009-02-03T17:01:00.011+01:00

A few months ago I photographed flowers in my studio for Interflora. It was a shoot for an article about Valentine's day and the creative directors didn't want the classical red roses. It developed into a shoot with biscuits, Buddha and coffee cups. The talented florist Sofie Danielsson, who made these creations, has previously won the Swedish youth skills, plus a bronze medal in the World skills, in floristics.

Creative directors: Anna Ceder & Miriam Oucama
Florist: Sofie Danielsson, Floristkompaniet

Three siblings three days after Christmas

2009-01-30T12:19:00.007+01:00

In December I met three siblings for a shot in Observatorielunden. I'm so use to direct two people, so it's a little bit of a challenge to have three people in front of the camera. Despite the cold we had one hour of fun.

Our trade show booth

2009-01-26T12:22:00.013+01:00

Jenny Hammar and I shared booth last weekend when the trade show "Allt om Bröllopsmässan" took place for the first time. The magazine "Allt om bröllop" had done a wounderful job and had put together a professional fair. It was the best trade show I ever participated in and it was fun to create a different booth. We had a movie in our booth, showing photos and interviews with Jenny and me talking about our work. Thanks to everyone who stopped by and had a chat with us.

My latest sale

2009-01-22T12:33:00.009+01:00

I want to share with you my most recent sale from Folio, the stock photo acency that represents me. During the wedding season I have little time for Folio photos. After the trade-show this weekend I will have more time for these kinds of images.

What's going on?

2009-01-14T16:54:00.009+01:00

It's a new year! I love that feeling when you can start all over again and have new energy. Unfortunately my year started in bed. I have been sick for a quite long time, but now I feel that I'm on my way back to work full time and to make sure that this year will be a successful year! So what's going on? I'm working on the wedding fair presentation. It take so much more time than you can imagine! Yesterday I met Jenny Hammar for some preparations at my office. We are sharing booth and I'm so excited over the things we are creating right now! You can't miss our booth at the wedding fair in Nacka Strand next weekend!

Wedding fair in Nacka Strand 24-25 January!

2009-01-12T21:57:00.005+01:00

The magazine Allt om Bröllop is organizing a wedding fair in Factory Nacka Strand 24-25 January! Welcome to have a chat with me at booth A2:07! If you're going to get married or are just interested in weddings you should come for some inspiration! For more information and tickets click here.

2008 - wedding review

2008-12-28T13:33:00.115+01:00

The year 2008 has come to an end, and with my favorite wedding pictures from the year I have compiled my longest blog post ever. Looking back through the year I have developed so much both professionally and personally. This is a year I always will remember. This profession makes me happy and almost everyday I go to work with a smile on my face. Thanks to all of my clients for sharing your most special day in your life with me.

Hoping for a great 2009!

I have registered a number on each of the pictures above, so feel free to leave a comment on your personal favorite.

Merry Christmas to all my blog readers!

2008-12-24T13:24:00.004+01:00

Yesterday I went home to my hometown to celebrate Christmas with my family. I had so much luggage so I didn't bring my camera. But I have bought myself an iPhone for Christmas, so I took my first pictures with the phone.

I wish you all a Merry Christmas!

Anytime love

2008-12-16T12:40:00.013+01:00

It all started in the beginning of this year. It was a couple who asked me if I could shoot a series of pictures of them. They wanted one big, warm, loving picture above their bed. I did a blog post after the session, and I could not imagine the response from other blog readers. People emailed me and when I had meetings with clients many of them referred to these pictures. Soon after another couple booked the same type of session and now you can book one too!

Now you can check out the couples sessions on my website. I call it Anytime love, because it's something you can do wherever you are in life. Documenting love is such a beautiful thing.

My biggest THANKS to these couples for letting me show how beautiful they are!

A wedding photographer network!

2008-12-05T22:09:00.016+01:00

I'm proud to announce a new photographic network, a cooperation with Jenny Hammar. We both feel that it is important to share experience, be inspired, help each other out and have a high level of quality in our work. We both are passionate about weddings and have a lot in common. To have a regular chat with someone else who knows exactly how it is to work with weddings is very good. Check out the website were you can find some more information about our network.

Photos by: Johanna Hanno

Following morning - update!

2008-12-02T14:00:00.014+01:00

Coming into December and there's still very much work to do. I'm still in the process of updating my website. You can now check out two new Following morning shots. Thanks to both Annika and Sandra for letting me show their pictures!

A very common question that I get regarding these shots are "What should I wear and what should I bring?". My answer is: Less is more and bring things that you really like! Bring lingerie with a perfect fit and that feel comfortable to wear. When posing for these pictures you should feel unique and beautiful.

For some inspiration, here is what Sandra brought to her session:
- wedding dress
- dressing gown
- stayups
- panties
- bra
- shoes
- earrings

What Annika brought:
- night gown
- bra
- panties
- stayups
- garter

Autumn slideshow

2008-11-18T20:37:00.004+01:00

Karin and Henrik married in Gävle October 11 and they had a beautiful wedding on a very sunny day. Here you can see many more pictures from their autumn wedding.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW KARIN AND HENRIK'S SLIDESHOW

One of my all time favorites

2008-11-13T14:01:00.002+01:00

This morning I was looking for some pictures on my computer and I found this one. It was not what I was looking for, but this picture make me happy and I just have to share it with you. In January 2007 I did an amazing trip to Iceland. When traveling by a bus through to landscape we made a stop to have a look at these lovely horses. Are they not cute?

The Victoria's secret bride

2008-11-10T11:55:00.007+01:00

This summer I have been working with many weddings, but also with many Following morning shots. One of them was this bride wearing a pink Victoria's secret bra, white lingerie from the wedding and a dressing gown.

Moulin Rouge wedding in Winterviken

2008-11-05T14:14:00.017+01:00

October 25 I was in Winterviken to shoot a wedding. This place is Alfred Nobel´s old sulphur (svavel) factory. The theme of the wedding was Moulin Rouge and Anna, from Eventdesign, had done an amazing job with the decor!

The main hall is quite magnificent, the area is 500 square meter (5400 square feet)! Have an extra look at the big projector screen, to the right with a golden frame... it´s been specially design by Anna.

It´s all about the details, big or small, especially when you have a wedding with a theme.

The floor was covered with a red carpet.

The bar is built entirely by Anna and her team. Have an extra look at the bridal couple´s initials.

The lounge area with coconut palms and a sofa to sit and relax in.

The table was decorated with big candelabras, fruit plates and feathers.

Over the bridal couple´s table were fabrics in red and pink. Anna had also done an amazing job with the light in the hall.

Anna the talented set-designer. We have been working together several times this year. She is very professional and I´m so impressed with all of her ideas. Check out her website here.

Juliana and the cello in black and white

2008-11-05T13:02:00.005+01:00

Here are some more pictures of Juliana, the photographer who likes to play cello. When I photographed her she did not only brought her camera, music is also a big part of her identity.

Story of Emma

2008-10-31T10:55:00.006+01:00

I first met Emma and Kalle in 2006 when they planned their wedding. This sweet couple married in Sala on a very cold February day in 2007. Emma and I met again in September this year for a "Following Morning" shoot. Kalle was turning 40 and Emma wanted to give him something special. Emma told me afterwards that Kalle always wanted to see her wrapped in cellophane, but he thought this was even better! The pictures will last longer!

I received this picture from Emma & Kalle. In their bedroom they have three large 30x40 cm wedding photos. I think it's fun to see how my clients use my pictures and I am always happy when clients get back to me. It means a lot to me.

Christmas feeling with Interflora

2008-10-28T12:23:00.006+01:00

Soon it´s Christmas! In September it smelled gingerbread biscuit and cinnamon in my studio when I did a assignment for Interflora´s magazine Blomster Branschen.

Creative director: Anna Ceder
Florist: Sara Wågbrant / Floristkompaniet

Yes! I have some extra time!

2008-10-27T13:31:00.009+01:00

Finally! I have some time to start to update my website! First out is Anna & Anthony´s beautiful wedding from Gotland.

You can also check out the entiry session of Elin´s Trash the dress.

I will let you know when the whole website is updated with new images.

Autumn wedding in Gävle

2008-10-21T12:37:00.023+02:00

October 11 I was in Gävle to shoot Karin and Henrik´s beautiful autumn wedding. They gave me some key words to be inspired with when I photographed them. Fashion, autumn and tenderness was some of them. I know Gävle quite well since it´s the closest city to my town were I grew up. But I had never before been to Bönan, the small fishing village were Karin and Henrik married. The reception was held at Engeltofta.

Thank you Karin and Henrik for letting me to be a part of your day.

Lingerie love

2008-10-21T01:28:00.004+02:00

This is my latest Following morning shot of a bride that is getting married in November. She love lingerie and has several friends, who have been photographed by me, that recommended her to do this really special gift.

Portrait of a photographer

2008-10-16T13:09:00.009+02:00

Last week I did a portrait session of Juliana who works as a photographer. She is the girl behind Morethanwords Photodesign. I have only meet her once before. But since Juliana is the kind of person you do notice, I have already got a strong impression of her. She got a bubbly personality and is full of energy.

Juliana, I wish you good luck with your new office and the new constellation in your business!

See more of Juliana and her work here.

Bouquets featured in BröllopsGuiden

2008-10-13T15:08:00.008+02:00

Through the years I have photographed many bouquets. Here are some of them featured in the lastest issue of BröllopsGuiden. Which one is your favorite? Leave a comment below, and don´t forget to click on the pictures.

If you want to know who my favorite is, look at the front page on my website.

Utö´s luckiest couple

2008-10-09T19:22:00.016+02:00

Utö is an island in Stockholms archipelago. September 13 I went there to shoot Linda and Thomas wedding. Utö kyrka is one of the most beautiful churches I have seen, very bright and tasteful. Linda and Thomas were so sweet, happy and full of energy. It was very fun and easy to photograph them! Their love for one another was unmistakable. When the portrait session ended Linda took Thomas for a ride on a moped to the reception at Socitetshuset.

Portrait of a military

2008-10-06T00:41:00.011+02:00

A sunny day in September I went with Johan to Vaxholm to take some photos of him. I insisted to wait until the sunset. We had such a great time together! Johan is a fun, crazy and a intelligent person. Thank you Johan for geting along with all my ideas.

A Jewish ceremony on a very rainy day

2008-10-01T19:01:00.026+02:00

September 6 was one of the most rainy days this year. The day started at MIKA´s wedding when Sofia was getting ready. There were lots of umbrellas and friendly people who wanted to help protect Sofia from the rain when we went on to Stallmästaregården. Sofia and Jacob had a beautiful Jewish ceremony at the veranda. Anna at VIP Eventdesign hade made a lovely work with the setting. She had decorated big parts of Stallmästaregården in white fabrics. Sofias beautiful dress with a green ribbon was made in Hong Kong where the couple also live.

Sofia and Jacob´s sneak peek

2008-09-27T17:01:00.006+02:00

Sofia and Jacob had a beautiful ceremony at Stallmästaregården September 6. The full blog post comes in just a couple of days!

Lula - girl of my dreams

2008-09-22T13:37:00.005+02:00

I think I get most inspired when I travel by train and get a view of the landscape. I like the speed and the impression of the trees flying by and my eyes can´t focus. One other thing that is important for me are the magazines. Recently I discover a magazine called Lula. It´s full of great photography, fashion and illustrations.

A twenties look in Saltsjöbaden

2008-09-16T16:15:00.017+02:00

Ulrika and Claes married August 30 in Uppenbarelsekyrkan, a very dark church but I still like the light and the space inside there. The receptions was held at "Vår Gård", a magnificent place by the water. During the bridal toast a jazz trio entertained, and the singer was really talented with such a unique voice. I have to get her name! When you are in the industry it´s always good to collect contacts that you really like, so you can recommend future bridal couples. Have an extra look at Ulrikas hair, I just love her style, sophisticated and cute!

Happiness is...

2008-09-15T10:30:00.006+02:00

...to get married if you ask Linda. Last weekend she was full of energy at Utö, a island in Stockholms archipelago. More photos to come.

My personal project

2008-09-12T10:12:00.004+02:00

Yes, I have a personal project! This is all about me and to keep my mind to be inspired.

Do not forget to click on the pictures!

The Mini Cooper couple

2008-09-11T15:33:00.007+02:00

August 30 I went for a short session to Thoresta herrgård outside Bro to photographed Emma and Lasse in my favourite car - a Mini Cooper. Emma was so beautiful with a necklace, earrings and a tiara made my her own mother who is working as an silversmith.

Featured in the latest issue of Bröllopsguiden

2008-09-08T22:09:00.009+02:00

Alexandra and Joakim´s wedding is featured in the lastest issue of Bröllopsguiden, one of Swedens most popular wedding magazines. To read the whole article, click on the pictures. To see more of Alexandra and Joakim´s photos, check out my website . Their images will be there for just a few more weeks. Soon I will update my website with new images.

Mio min Mio

2008-09-05T19:50:00.028+02:00

CLICK HERE TO VIEW SANDRA AND NICKLAS SLIDESHOW

CLICK HERE TO VIEW SANDRA AND NICKLAS SLIDESHOW

I am so thankful for having work that I love! When I photographed Sandra and Nicklas on August 23rd, I felt so incredibly lucky. To shoot this sweet couple at their fabulous wedding, with such an enchanting theme, was so fun! When it was time for me to leave and drive back to Stockholm, I wanted to stay because I knew that I was going to lose some great late evening shots. I arrived at Södertuna slott at 10.00 in the morning, to check out the forest where we were going to shoot the portrait session. At 11.00 I started to shoot the preparations. There were so many beautiful details that caught my eye. As you have probably seen in a previous post, Sandra and Nicklas went rambling through the forest to get great shots. This part of the day was particularly important due to the theme of the wedding - elfin (trolsk). Note how the expression in Sandra's eyes and the plait in her forehead match perfectly with the theme! This was also reflected throughout the ceremony in Taxinge kyrka, beginning when the couple walked down the aisle to tunes of "Mio min Mio". The reception included a guitar-playing trio, a heart-shaped group photo and a gun salute. And when the guests entered the dining room, they were met by a sea of low-lying fog. So magical and so very powerful...

"Following Morning" with a dress

2008-09-01T13:20:00.015+02:00

About a month ago I photographed this bride in her beautiful San Patrick dress. We were at the hotel a dark and rainy day in the beginning of August. The bride to be wanted some sensual pictures in her lingerie and she also brought her fabulous dress with lovely details. I think it was a perfect idea! I hope that the groom will like the photos.

If you want great photos...

2008-08-29T15:23:00.004+02:00

...you have to sacrifice oneself. Sandra and Nicklas were doing just that at Södertuna slott, August 23th. Sandra was wearing gum-boots and were climbing over some sheep fence to get great shots in the forest. More photos to come from this lovely wedding with a bewitching theme.

My best friend´s wedding

2008-08-24T22:13:00.021+02:00

I first met Petra nine years ago when we both played floorball in the team IFK Dannemora/Österby. To this day she remains one of my very best friends and to be with her on her wedding day was very special to me. In church I could barely hold my camera because I was crying so much. There was a beautiful ceremony in Skokloster kyrka. The day started in Uppsala at 06.00 in the morning as Petra was getting ready for the best day ever! For the portrait session we went to Skokloster slott and the lovely hall "Ofullbordade salen". During the reception at Skokloster värdshus the groom Olle sang and played the guitarr for Petra. Olle is a really good singer, and I think he got the biggest applause during the dinner! One other thing I especially will remember are the candles that lit up the sky. There were Asian sky lanterns which we lit in the middle of the night for Petra and Olle´s love.

Petra and Olle, I wish you joy, happiness and forever love in your marriage!
Love ya!

On a landing-stage

2008-08-19T14:05:00.013+02:00

Mia and Mikael married August 9 in Enskede kyrka. I shot this cute couple also at Sundbygård before the ceremony. Mia had no problem with running in the wet green grass with her white shoes and white dress (look at the last post). As a photographer you really appreciate that! Have an extra look at the details on Mia´s dress, so beautiful.

In motion

2008-08-18T18:20:00.002+02:00

Tomorrow I will post some more pictures from Mia and Mikael´s day.

Trash the dress - Part III - the real post

2008-08-14T19:38:00.017+02:00

Finally, I have come to the final post of the Trash The Dress session that I shot in June. When I phoned Elin several months ago to ask if she would like to be my first Trash The Dress bride, she immediately said YES! But there were just one thing... Elin was pregnant at that time. The following weeks we were both so excited (Elin probably more than I)! When it was time for the shoot, Elin had a baby that was only a couple of months old! We got exactly what we wanted that day - sunset pictures!

Trash The Dress is not about destroying your dress from your wedding. It´s an opportunity to take beautiful pictures in a different environment, and keep your memories from your wedding close to your heart. It´s never too late if you still have your dress in the wardrobe!

Thank you Elin for doing the promotional pictures with me!

Here you can see pictures from Elin´s wedding. She and Magnus married in June 2006 in Alunda, Uppsala.

Rain, rain, rain...

2008-08-12T16:58:00.009+02:00

When I photographed Sara and Emil August 2 it rained. We took our escape to Ekotemplet in Hagaparken and got beautiful pictures. Even if we shared the small place with another bridal couple and a group of people who were doing sumo wrestling, Sara and Emil managed to relax! Guess why there are many pictures on Sara´s bouquet? I truly love it! Anyone who know the flowers name?

Glittering shoes and lilies of the valley

2008-08-05T18:28:00.022+02:00

Even if it wasn't the season, Annika truly wanted lilies of the valley on her wedding day. And on July 5th, both Annika and Matthew received a beautiful flower arrangement. This lovely couple first met and in fact still live in London, but celebrated their wedding at Hasselbacken, Djurgården. It was such a beautiful wedding with different cheeses replacing the traditional wedding cake, a fantastic dress with a lovely fabric and a joyful dinner with lots fine speeches. I love Annika´s hair with a plait and a big flower. Hair and makeup on Annika and her three bridesmaides made by Emmelie Milesson.

Emotions at a beautiful Gotland

2008-07-27T15:46:00.022+02:00

In the beginning of July I went to Gotland to shoot a friday wedding. Anna and Tony celebrated their big day at Villa Muramaris, with friends and family from all around the world. It was a pleasure to work with them, they are such a sweet, good looking couple. It´s always something special to get hired by creative people. It was a true honour to shoot their wedding because they both work as art directors back in New York. With Anna being a former model, a great husband, a beautiful dress and an overall lovely wedding, it was easy to find great moments to capture on camera.

Indian style

2008-07-15T21:30:00.008+02:00

I use to post pictures very quickly after each photoshoot, but now there are so much work to do so I am way behind. This is a wedding that I shoot June 28. I meet Cecilia and Johan at KTH:s borggård to have a short session with them. This wedding was a mix of Swedish and Indian traditions. Johan was very handsome in his typical Indian clothes.

Architects in love at Moderna Museet

2008-07-07T22:25:00.018+02:00

The San Francisco based couple Alison and Christian both work as architects. Their choice of reception, Moderna Museet, was really reflecting their taste of design and architecture. It was a beautiful place to hold a wedding! They married in Katarina kyrka June 28 to the tones of harp music. The harp was something special. I can guarantee it´s not that common for a ceremony in Sweden. The instrument had been delivered from Göteborg just for their big day. After dinner a jazz band entertained throughout the night at Moderna Museet.

Gotland is full of inspiration

2008-07-03T23:12:00.004+02:00

Today I arrived to Gotland to shoot a friday wedding tomorrow. This evening I have done some preparations. I am really looking forward for a great day tomorrow. On saturday I am back in Stockholm to shoot another fabulous wedding at Hasselbacken, Djurgården.

Trash the dress - Part two - Behind the scene

2008-07-01T19:18:00.006+02:00

Last week when I shoot a Trash the dress session we took some behind the scenes pictures that I would like to share. The shoot was a little bit more complicated than usual because the bride had given birth to a little baby just a couple of months ago! I am so impressed! Elin managed to fit in the dress from her wedding. That´s unbelievable! Of course Viggo had to come with us since Elin still have to breast-feed him.

The crew was:
Photographer: Erika Gerdemark
Hair and makeup: Åsa Östergren
Bride: Elin Lindström
Assistant: Ida Gerdemark
Babysitter: Louise (bride´s mother)
Baby: Viggo

Thanks to everyone who made this shoot possible! Special thanks to you Elin! You are a super mom to 3 children, a super bride and now also a supermodel!

When I have the time to edit the pictures I will post many more from this session.

***Note that the photos above are taken by Ida Gerdemark***

Trash the dress - Part one

2008-06-27T12:14:00.006+02:00

Elin married in 2006. Yesterday, 2 years later, Elin trashed her dress! There are so much to tell about this post, so it will be divided in several parts. This is just a sneak preview. Thank you so much Elin! You are an amazing bride!

Makeup and hair by Åsa Östergren.

(Don´t forget to click on the pictures for a larger version)

Purple Friday bride in Uppsala

2008-06-24T23:10:00.016+02:00

Jane is the most patient and most calm bride ever! I am so impressed! Can you imagine not having your dress ready on your wedding day? No problem if you ask Jane! The dressmaker had not finished the dress when we came to pick it up. Finally I got about 20 minutes for the portrait session in a rainy Uppsala. Jane and Jonas married on a Friday, June 13, and celebrated with friends and family in their own garden. The wedding was a surprise, but when we arrived at their home I think everyone knew...

A slideshow from a portrait session

2008-06-19T10:50:00.014+02:00

CLICK HERE TO VIEW HANNA AND JONAS SLIDESHOW

Hanna and Jonas are a photographers dream. They could not make a bad picture. There were absolutely a pleasure to work with them. I think Hanna had a little advantage because she had done a Following morning shoot with me a couple of months ago, and she knew my way to shoot.

They married June 14 and we shoot their portrait session before the ceremony in the surroundings of Riddersviks herrgård. In this post I´m trying something new - a slideshow from their session. What do you think about my new presentation? Leave a comment below.

Push a button

2008-06-17T22:05:00.009+02:00

In May I photographed Hanna for a Following morning shoot. To my surprise Hanna was super great in front of the camera! It was like to push a button. Hanna was edgy and such a beauty. Emmelie Milesson did a great job with Hannas hair and makeup. Last weekend I photographed Hannas wedding and this time I knew what to expect - and she didn´t let me down. She was a stunning bride! Pictures will be posted in a couple of days.

Hidden stairs in Hedvig Eleonora kyrka

2008-06-16T11:38:00.006+02:00

Anneli and Patrik married in Hedvig Eleonora kyrka June 14. After the ceremony I found some strairs with an amazing light for their portrait session. There is something about stairs that I like. Very often in different mansions, castles or churches you can find them if you are looking carefully.

Green vs. Green

2008-06-14T23:14:00.004+02:00

Both brides that I photographed today had such a beautiful bouquets. Do I have to mention that I love that pale green colour? Which one is your favourite? Leave a comment below.

Vera Wang - On weddings

2008-06-13T00:48:00.004+02:00

Those of you who know me knows that I am passionate about weddings. A few weeks ago I had a meeting with a bride that I am going shoot in July. She showed me this book that is absolutely fantastic! Vera Wang - On weddings - is a book full of inspiration made by well-known fashion designer Vera Wang. I can´t tell you how much I LOVE it! After my meeting with the bride I immediately order the book from Amazon.com. The bride got her book when she bought her Vera Wang dress.

June 7 in Lovö kyrka

2008-06-12T10:18:00.006+02:00

It´s definitely wedding season! Last weekend I had two weddings, and the second one was in Lovö kyrka. Gunilla and Claes had a small and intimate wedding. I will try to keep my blog post a little bit shorter since I have so much work to do! The upcoming weekend I have three weddings and two following morning shoots. Stay tuned!

Just for me

2008-06-08T22:04:00.004+02:00

Since I became a professional photographer I almost never take photos for my private album. When friends ask me to "just bring the camera", I most of the times say no. I spend most of the energy I have on my clients, and the little bit that is left I spend on myself to continue to be inspired. The photos above are just for me.

In a wooden pavilion

2008-06-08T10:44:00.011+02:00

I was shooting Linnéa and Asim in the surroundings of Ulriksdals castle June 7. Linnéas bouquet was fantastic! Peony is my favourite flower. Her bridemaids dresses matches perfect in the colour theme with one pink and one green dress.

Under the bridge

2008-06-01T21:09:00.017+02:00

May 31 I was at Vätö in Norrtäljes archipelago to shoot Linda and Daniels wedding. We started out in a old cool busstop and ended up under the bridge thats goes from the mainland to Vätö. I really like the bridesmaids dresses that matches the colour inside Vätö church. Thank you so much Linda and Daniel for going along with all my ideas!

Emotions at Södertuna slott

2008-05-25T22:58:00.026+02:00

The swedish-british couple Pete and Sara first met when they were singing in a choir. This was reflected throughout the ceremony in Frustuna church, May 24, with lots of joyful choir singing. I can't tell you how beautiful it was...I was almost in tears when they proclaimed their vows to one another.

We held the portrait session before the ceremony, in a quaint forest area. Pete and Sara wanted to make this a special moment. I was waiting with Pete in the shadows, to capture the moment when Sara arrived. There was so much emotion and it couldn't have been more beautiful. Their love for each other was unmistakable. They were both in tears when they saw each other for the first time.

Thank you Jenny!

2008-05-19T21:45:00.004+02:00

Jenny deserve her own post. Jenny Blad was the photographer who arranged the workshop and seminar with John Michael Cooper last week in Göteborg. Thank you so much Jenny! I hope that there will be another world famous photographer next year! This is a photo of Jenny and me doing silly poses in Göteborg harbour. We were waiting for the group to be ready inside the submarine. Niklas Wikman was holding the camera.

Behind white flowers

2008-05-18T14:11:00.011+02:00

May 17 I was shooting Per and Cecilia in Djursholm. The weather turned out to be perfect even if we were worried about the rain in the morning. Have an extra look at Cecilia - I just love her serious expression.

John Michael Cooper - Altf

2008-05-15T16:05:00.012+02:00

Yesterday I was in Göteborg to meet one of my favourite photographers - John Michael Cooper. He is one of my top three photographers in the world that I truly admire. Maybe you know how it feels to have pop artist as your idol? That´s how I feel about John Michael. Its so cool that he came to Sweden for this seminar and workshop because he had never been to Europe before. His signature style is to shoot weddings very diffrent. If you want classical and traditional wedding pictures John Michael is not the one you should hire. He likes fire, bullet holes and sandstorms back in US.

The day started with a seminar when John Michael talked about his work and why he is a very succsessful photographer. That was so inspiring! During the day I took every opportunity to talk to him in person. He is so nice and so artistic! Then we went to a submarine in Göteborg harbour to have a workshop. The models were very patient because we were 15 photographers trying to get the best shot.

Yeeaahh, we photographers are a crazy bunch... Doing anything to get the best shot!

We moved on downtown for another session. And below are my favorite pictures.

After the day I was exhausted, but I was having so much fun! I almost felt over-inspired! I think it was one of my best days this year.

(Click on the pictures for a larger version.)

Sweet little details

2008-05-12T19:39:00.003+02:00

This bride remind me that the details are important in a Following morning shoot. Also that white lingerie are the best choice in this environment. She only had one set that we were focusing on - and it was more than enough! I just love her details and her lingerie. It fit so good in my vision of sensual, warm and natural pictures. I will also shoot her wedding in July and I´m really looking forward to it! I think the wedding is going be something special...

SFF day

2008-05-10T09:47:00.003+02:00

The weather was sunny when The Association of Swedish Professional Photographers held their annual meeting and inspiration day in Hagaparken, Stockholm, May 9th. Even though we got free ugly sunglasses it didn't help to see the big LCD displays in the bright environment. The photo credit of me goes to Heléne Grynfarb.

The result of "One man, one woman"

2008-05-07T12:25:00.007+02:00

I received this picture from a couple I was photographing in March. See the post "One man, one woman" This is their bedroom with one large picture and one smaller. I think it fit very good!

My new office

2008-05-01T17:51:00.003+02:00

This week I have been busy with moving my office to Odengatan. I´m happy and excited about it! My new place is just 10 minutes walk from home. I especially like my new lunchroom - the balcony with a great view of central Stockholm.

Intimacy, tenderness, love, for real.

2008-04-26T16:39:00.013+02:00

Intimacy, tenderness, love, for real - that´s how Anna described the pictures she wanted with her love Julian. I do think the words were speaking to me because I love to shoot pictures that reflects exactly those words. This shoot was really special to me because Anna is a photographer. She is one part of the talented team at More Than Words Photodesign. When she called me weeks ago I felt that it truly was an honour. I think it is the best compliment you can receive as a photographer - another photographer hiring you. Anna and Julian were easy going and had both such sweet personalities - they really felt down to earth.

Under the blossoming cherry tree

2008-04-20T23:24:00.021+02:00

Thérèse and Patric was the center of attention when we were shooting their session in Kungsträdgården April 19. Someone even gave their gratulations through the speakers. Thérèse and Patric were so happy, fun and cute to each other! They married in Oscarskyrkan and were celebrating at Stallet, Djurgården. Soon they will have a little baby!

Interviewed by Svenska Dagbladet

2008-04-19T19:13:00.006+02:00

Today I was shooting Thérèse and Patrics wedding. When we were in Kungsträdgården Svenska Dagbladet interviewed them. Like Thérèse and Patric said, "Maybe we do not have to announce the wedding in the newspaper". I will blog some more pictures from their wedding in a couple of days.

Gorgeous eyes!

2008-04-16T19:36:00.008+02:00

I just love Annas eyes! They are so powerful. The most important thing, apart from taking directions from me how to pose, is to have control of the eyes, the mouth and the hands. In this Following morning shoot the bride was very good of doing just that! I always strive to make the pictures look as natural as possible.

With many laughs behind the scenes

2008-04-14T11:01:00.005+02:00

Last week I was photographing Sarah. She was so relaxed and comfortable in the situation so it was a fun experience for all of us (me, the bride to be and her friend). Sarah was doing a great job in front of the camera! I wish her good luck - in just a few weeks she will hand over the pictures to her husband.

Exhibition at the Embassy of Iceland

2008-04-11T13:19:00.014+02:00

My pictures from Iceland have now been moved from the Police station house in Uppsala to the Embassy of Iceland in Stockholm. It´s a honour for me to have these pictures at the embassy. I truly love Iceland and want to go back there again!

The Association of Swedish Professional Photographers

2008-04-08T20:07:00.002+02:00

Today I meet other photographers at The Association of Swedish Professional Photographers (SFF) to discuss the future for our industry. We had a workshop with a company who is working with environment scanning (omvärldsanalys). It was really interesting and it is always fun to meet other photographers.

New front page on my website

2008-04-04T19:37:00.005+02:00

www.gerdemark.se

Elin is going to trash her dress!

2008-04-02T21:19:00.011+02:00

These pictures are from Elin and Magnus wedding in Uppsala 2006. Now I´m so excited to photograph Elin in a Trash the dress session. She will be my first bride to do this really cool and diffrent style of pictures. I´m looking forward to meet Elin in a couple of months -this time in the water.

Surprise wedding at Villa Berglunda

2008-03-30T11:20:00.021+02:00

March 29 Katarina and Niclas had invited their friends and family for a good bye party at the lovely Villa Berglunda in Ulriksdal. In just a few weeks they will be moving to China with their daughter Tuva. It was however obvious that it was more than just a good bye party when a priest showed up. Niclas and Katarina was getting married! The ceremony was held in a pavilion in the garden and it was really moving and intimate. The priest was one of the best ever - and I do meet lots of priests every year. I will keep her in mind.

Mood board

2008-03-23T19:33:00.005+01:00

This weekend I went to my hometown for inspiration. Click on the picture for a larger version.

Erika goes to Göteborg in May!

2008-03-19T16:13:00.018+01:00

May 14 I will travel to Göteborg for a workshop with John Michael Cooper. I´m in town for a couple of days, so if you are interested in a photo session -following morning(morgongåva) or some other portraits - please send me an email so we can work something out for Göteborg!

The very talented american photographer John Michael Cooper has been a big inspiration for me for such a long time. I´m so excited that he will come to Sweden for a seminar and a workshop! John Michael is wellknown all over the world for his mood and different style of capture weddings. He is also the brain behind the concept "Trash the dress". Trash the dress may sounds hard, but it´s a session of the bride in her dress in a different enviroment, when she can play with the dress without being afraid of destroy it. Of course the pictures are taken after the wedding day.

I´m gonna start to promote these kind of images in a couple of months - so stay tune for Erika's Trash the dress images!

One man, one woman

2008-03-11T20:38:00.012+01:00

No, they are not real models. They are just an ordinary couple truly in love with each other! I was so much fun shooting them, they were so relaxed and easy going! I have looked forward to this shoot because I had to compose with two people, and it was not a wedding. So now a could be more edgy and creative. The couple wanted a sensual, warm, loving, big picture above their bed - and here are my favourites. Thank you guys for letting me show these pictures! You are awesome!

FAQ - Wedding

2008-03-06T21:51:00.010+01:00

Q: What´s your best advice when deciding on a photographer?
A: Look at the pictures! What feel and style are you after? Can the photographer do that? Make sure to look at pictures from many different weddings, but most of all make sure you see many pictures from the ones you like so you can see consistency in the photographers work. And ultimately: trust your gut feeling.

Q: When do we need to book you?
A: As soon as you have the date set! I constantly have to decline many assignments due to already being booked.

Q: Can we chose between black and white, sepia or color pictures?
A: I shoot digital photographs so the choice is yours entirely. After the shoot, I edit the pictures based on your wishes at our first meeting – should you change your mind the pictures can be re-edited.

Q: Why can't I find any price information on your website?
A: Every photo assignment is unique and the personalized wishes, options and the overall scenario make a decisive impact on the final price.

Q: How do we select the pictures we want?
A: I will make a first pick of the best pictures from your wedding. Based on that you make a second selection that you will get on a low resolution cd. The second selection is also available on the password protected client area on my website so you can share it with friends and family.

Q: What if it rains?
A: It's always important to have a backup plan made up before the photo session to be able to cope with all eventualities. Many couples chose to use the wedding party venue as an alternative to outdoor pictures. Umbrellas can be used during minor rain.

Q: What if your equipment fails?
A: I always carry backup equipment and to minimize the risk of losing pictures due to bad media I always use several memory cards to store pictures during the shoot.

Q: What if you are sick on our day?
A: I keep a large network of professional photographers – I will help you find a replacement.

Q: Can we use the pictures on our wedding homepage?
A: Yes, that´s fine! Just remember to publish my name and copyright notice.

Q: We want to publish one of the picture in a newspaper. Does that cost extra?
A: No, that´s included in the price. Just remember to publish my name along with the picture.

Q: Will you perform reconnaissance on location prior to the photo session?
A: Yes, I always check out the venue prior to the wedding. If the venue is in the Stockholm area I will do so on a separate day otherwise a couple of hours before the session starts.

Q: What type of equipment do you use?
A: At the moment I shoot with a Canon 5D. But for me, thats not the point! The most importing thing is to have a creative eye!

Q: Can we get high resolution pictures digitally?
A: I normally deliver low resolution pictures on cd that you can use to make slide shows, send by mail or publish on your website. High resolution pictures are provided at an additional fee.

Q: What exactly do we pay for?
A: You pay for my time, artistic value and expenses.

Q: What assignments are the most fun to do?
A: When the couple truly sees the benefit of hiring a professional photographer and where there is a passion for photographs!

Do you have further questions? Leave a comment or send me an email!

...and of course - not a single post without a picture! Here are a few more pictures from last wedding in Gävle.

Sunny winter wedding in Gävle

2008-02-25T18:56:00.026+01:00

Katarina told me that she saw a specific picture that I have made and then decided, "This is the photographer I want to have on my wedding!" And so it was! Katarina and Peter married february 23 in Heliga Trefaldighets church in Gävle. Katarina walked down the aisle with her father with a smile on her face. We shot the portrait pictures nearby "Miles Änglar" in central Gävle. We also went to Gävle concert house for a short session. I love this building! The reception was held at Engeltofta. It was an amazing place that I would highly recommend for you out there planning your wedding in Gävle.

My favourite picture from last weekend

2008-02-21T10:40:00.002+01:00

Who is behind the camera?

2008-02-13T14:28:00.007+01:00

Since many of you blog readers have no idea what I look like I decided to post a couple of photos of myself. Now you know who to look for when you made an appointment with me!

Wedding on a boat - february 9

2008-02-10T11:59:00.000+01:00

Sofia and Stefans ceremony was held on a old steam boat called Waxholm III. There were nearly 100 guest celebrating with them at sea. We shoot portrait pictures in the surroundings of Stockholm castle. I really love the clean and rugged enviroment! The place was crowded with tourists but Sofia and Stefan managed to do a good job in the center of everybodys attention.

Erika in action!

2008-02-03T20:27:00.000+01:00

Yesterday Kenny went with me to assist at the shoot with Maria and Daniel. Here is an actionshot of me on the cliffs.

I´m very happy that Maria and Daniel finally had their winter wedding with snow! But it was no fun driving home in this weather, 100 km, back to Stockholm.

Maria made her own dress

2008-02-03T14:35:00.000+01:00

Daniel and Maria married february 2 at Väddö. On the location called "Olgas backe" on a landing-stage they said yes to eachother. Before the ceremony we were shooting a few portrait pictures at Bergby gård, were the reception was held. This patient and lovely couple also managed to climb to the top of some slippery rocks for the photo session. Maria had a wonderful dress that she have made by her own! That´s really impressing! Her chrochet crown was also something uniqe.

Appreciated Christmas present

2008-01-27T19:35:00.000+01:00

A day in december I was shooting this gorgeous girl. We had so much fun but we were also a little bit stressed about how quickly it was getting dark. That´s december in Sweden...

Helgens mässa på Grand

2008-01-20T19:22:00.000+01:00

Helgens bröllopsmässa på Grand hõtel är nu till ända. Det var tre givande dagar med möten med både kollegor och nya kunder. Något som många brudpar gillade var mina coffeetablebooks med tjocka, laminerade och designade sidor. Det härligaste med mässan var dock alla kommentarer som "Du har de allra finaste bilderna" och "Du förhöjer branschen" Sådana kommentarer går rakt in och hjärtat på en fotograf som brinner för sitt yrke.

Inspiration & favourites

2008-01-15T18:57:00.000+01:00

Nu finns det nya bilder under "inspiration & favourites" på hemsidan. Madeleine och Fredrik vigdes i Uppsala vintern 2007. En av platserna vi fotograferade på var Östgöta nation, som också var deras festlokal.

Tre speciella personer

2008-01-11T10:49:00.000+01:00

Det finns 3 personer som har haft en avgörande betydelse för att jag jobbar med bröllop. Idag känner jag att jag är skyldig dem ett tack för att de på olika sätt fått mig att blomstra. Det är dags för dem att få veta det!

Ann-Sofie: Hon är en nära vän till mig sen barndomsåren i Tierp, som tipsade några bekanta om mig när de skulle vigas 2002. De var ett av mina allra första bröllop och utan Ann-Sofie hade jag aldrig gjort jobbet. Med denna fantastiska bruksmiljö i Strömsberg och ett vackert par, Katarina och Fredrik, var det riktigt roligt att fotografera bröllop. Alla bilder togs på film och det vart så härligt att se slutresultatet. Med en enkel systemkamera med tillhörande försättslinser blev resultatet över förväntan.

Barbara: Vi jobbade för många år sedan på ett fotolabb och jag fick äran att fota henne och John när de vigdes i Uppsala. Det är också ett speciellt minne som fick mig att inse på allvar att bröllop var någonting för mig. Barbara och John blev nöjda och det var en sån kick att ge en sån glädje till dem.

Robert: Vi samtalade en nyårsafton om min inriktning på bröllop. Han kom med så mycket beröm av mina bilder och pushade mig. Eftersom Robert också är en kreatör och samtalet långt så har jag i efterhand förstått att det har betytt mycket för mig. Robert är också den person som skapade min allra första hemsida. Det kan jag inte tacka honom nog för!

Händig februaribrud

2008-01-10T16:16:00.000+01:00

Vem kan tro att denna fantastiska slöja är hemmagjord? Med några meter tyg, limm och hårspänne så skapade den här blivande bruden en mycket vacker rekvisita för fotograferingen. I början på januari fotograferade vi morgongåvan och det var riktigt roligt att lära känna en sådan härlig och ödmjuk person full av energi. I februari står hon brud på Gotland. Jag ser fram emot att se hennes bröllopsbilder! Själv har jag fullt upp med bröllop under februari månad - den populäraste vintermånaden. Vi hoppas på snö!

Tack...

2008-01-09T13:10:00.000+01:00

...alla som hört av sig och visat intresse för Bröllopsmässan! Gratis biljetterna har gått åt och är slut! Just nu jobbar jag för fullt med att sammanställa material till mässan. Vi ses nästa helg!

Här är ytterligare en bild från helgens bröllop med Jenny och Ove.

Årets första bröllop

2008-01-06T11:19:00.000+01:00

Vintern hade kommit till Stockholm när Jenny och Ove vigdes i Hjorthagskyrkan den 5 januari. Trots att limousinföretaget tagit fel på datum så att paret blev nästan en halvtimme sena till fotograferingen, så lyckades vi få till några fina bilder innan det mörknade ute. Jag var med dem under porträtten och vigseln tills de for iväg på vidare festligheter.

GRATIS biljetter till mässan!

2008-01-04T13:58:00.000+01:00

Ni som läser min blogg måste få en förmån! Därför kommer jag att ge ut några få gratis biljetter till Bröllopsmässan på Grand Hotel i Stockholm! Biljetterna gäller endast fredagen den 18 januari då mässan har öppet kl.17-20. VIll du slippa betala 160:-/biljett så skicka mig ett mail till erika@gerdemark.se och ange "Biljett" i ämnesraden. Skriv ditt namn, adress och telefonnummer. Biljetterna kommer att postas hem till dig om du är en av de snabbaste på att höra av sig. Du erhåller 2 biljetter mot att du kommer och hälsar på i min monter!

Bilden är från Elin och Magnus bröllop. Vi fotograferade i centala Uppsala en varm sommardag 2006. Elin var en enastående vacker brud!