Jessica + Matthew – Osteria Real Wedding

Jessica + Matthew had a picture perfect wedding day in May. Starting with a beautiful first look moment for the couple, before their garden ceremony featuring their four legged friend, a stop by Cabarita headland for photos, before their stunning reception in the refinery, all perfectly captured by one of our favourite wedding photographers, Figtree Pictures.

Having shot hundreds of weddings at our venue, Figtree Pictures have some great insight into how best to shoot in our spaces and the best surrounding photo locations, plus they share some of their favourite parts about shooting weddings at Osteria and some tips on how to choose the right photographer.

You can read the interview here, and scroll down to see Jessica + Matthew’s gallery.

Tell us about the first look, how does this usually work?

We always love incorporating a first look on a wedding day!

Jessica and Matthew opted to have a first look which we did in the morning at their Airbnb – it was an ideal space with its natural light and beautiful outdoor space. We kept it very relaxed and personal, with only their closest friends and VIP (pup) Ollie watching on.

When choosing a first look, timing-wise we recommend it takes place in the hour before guests are due to arrive to your ceremony. This allows enough time for the special moments of seeing each other for the first time to be captured, and some time with one another before the formalities commence.

The best locations for bridal party photos around Osteria?

One of our favourite locations would have to be Cabarita Headland. There is so much diversity in the one location; grassy flat areas, ocean side rocks and trees, cliff views and stunning golden hour opportunities! Close by you’ll also find Fingal Headland and Hastings Point, which are also breathtaking beachside locations, all within in a short distance from Osteria.

Top tips for natural looking photos?

Something we hear from so many of our couples is that they feel awkward or nervous about getting their wedding photos taken, which is completely normal!

One of our best tips is to get a little practice in by doing an engagement shoot with your photographer. They are the perfect way to spend some time with your photographer and get a feel for being in front of the camera before your wedding day.

The best parts about shooting at a venue like Osteria?

So many things we love about Osteria!

Preparations are always easily captured with the Parlour bridal suite and Groom Room all onsite which makes for a super relaxed atmosphere in the morning. The ceremony space is then right next door. It’s beautiful private ceremony area feels intimate, but still has enough space to move around freely during the ceremony.

We also love being just a moments drive from some of the most spectacular coastline locations that serve up some incredible sunsets.

And then the staff! They’re always so attentive and professional to work alongside, and go above and beyond to ensure all guests and vendors are looked after all day and into the night.

Your favourite part of the day to shoot?

Ahh how can we choose! Each part of the day includes such significant, special moments that all come together to tell the story of each couple.

Getting ready – This is such an intimate and emotional time when the couple is surrounded by their closest friends and family. There are so many candid, natural moments that encapsulate the excitement and anticipation that is the lead up to the ceremony. Plus, all the pretty details that have been handpicked by the couple to finish their look and style for the day.

Ceremony – Being the heart of the celebration of the day, the ceremony provides so many beautiful unscripted moments. From your nearest and dearest watching on, the personal vows, exchange of wedding rings and of course the first kiss!

Locations – These images are often the most cherished of the day by our couples! This time is usually scheduled closer to golden hour / sunset, so our preferred natural light! We love having fun capturing all the good vibes of the bridal party, your chosen crew, then having our time to get creative with just the couple. Documenting the more intimate, personal moments to cherish for a lifetime.

Reception – This is such a fun and joyful part of the day where the couple and guests can really let loose and have the best time! Documenting all the formalities; candid emotions from speeches, cutting of the cake, first dance, then everyone on the dance floor! The perfect way to finish the story of the wedding day!

Top tip for choosing a photographer?

Choose a professional wedding photographer that you trust and whose style resonates with you.

Here at Figtree, we work hard to make sure the wedding photography and videography process is seamless for you, as it should be! Our studio team will support and guide you in the lead up to the day, with a team member dedicated to every step of the process from enquiry + booking, to putting together the perfect timeline for your day. Our amazing photographers + videographers are there to have fun with you, put any nervous jitters at ease, provide direction as needed and do their best to blend. All while capturing the precious moment’s you’ll cherish forever.