Emma and Josh’s September wedding at Glidden Point Oyster Farm had it all: fresh-caught tuna cut up right in front of them, a rainstorm that soaked that same tuna, and steady sunshine that brought out a small rainbow over the water. It was classic Maine in the best way.
What made the day stand out most wasn’t just the setting. It was how true it felt to them from start to finish.
From Coworkers to Wedding Day
Emma and I met at my first job out of college. I was a manager, and she was a cashier/host/bar back. When she started dating Josh, and I was getting back into photography, I asked them to model for a shoot. Then I asked them again. And again.
So when they got engaged and asked me to photograph their wedding, it felt full circle. Being trusted to photograph their wedding day was a huge honor.
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2025:
Getting Ready on the Maine Coast
Emma got ready at a charming Airbnb nearby that felt very Maine coast. It smelled like the ocean and had the warmth of a classic summer home. She and her sister set up mirrors outside to use the natural light, and her sister did her makeup. The whole morning felt calm and unhurried.
Josh got ready at Emma’s dad’s house. He played poker with his friends, smoked cigars, and enjoyed the time leading up to the ceremony. It was relaxed and simple in the best way.
Both spaces gave them room to settle in before the day officially began.
A Glidden Point Oyster Farm Wedding on the Maine Coast
If you’ve never been to Glidden Point Oyster Farm, it’s a working oyster farm on the Maine coast and one of the most unique places to get married. The docks, the boats, and the open water make the entire setting feel alive.
During family photos on the dock, a boat passed by and everyone on board started cheering for Emma and Josh. Later, one of the girls from the boat sent me a video of the moment from their perspective. It was one of those small, unexpected moments that felt very Maine.
Emma also surprised Josh with fresh-caught tuna during the celebration. It was cut up right there for everyone to eat. Even with the rain rolling through, no one seemed to mind.
Documentary Photography at Glidden Point
Emma and Josh’s wedding is a great example of why I love documentary style photography.
Their day unfolded naturally with very little posing. We spent about ten minutes on portraits of just the two of them and then moved into family photos. The rest of the day was documented as it happened.
Because of that, they were able to fully enjoy their wedding. They were present with their friends and family instead of stepping away for long stretches of staged photos. The images reflect how the day actually felt.
You Don’t Need a First Look
Emma and Josh chose not to do a first look, and their timeline still worked beautifully.
They got the aisle moment they had always imagined, plenty of time with their guests, and portraits without feeling rushed. A well-built timeline makes that possible. You do not have to give up that ceremony reveal in order to have great photos.
Film Photography on the Maine Coast
I shot more film at Emma and Josh’s wedding than I ever have before. Film felt especially fitting for a Maine coast wedding like this one.
It adds softness, texture, and a timeless quality that pairs well with coastal light and candid moments. Shooting film also slows the process down in a good way. It encourages intention and trust, which matched the tone of their day.
A Wedding That Felt Like Them
From the tuna surprise to the rain and rainbow to the dockside cheers, every part of this Glidden Point Oyster Farm wedding reflected who Emma and Josh are.
They planned a day that felt honest and relaxed, and it was a privilege to document it.
Planning a Maine coast wedding? I’d love to be the one to capture it!
Vendor Team:
Venue: @gliddenpoint
Coordinator: @allysonmpenman
DJ: @t0mas_t0mas
Hair: @jadeteutonstylist
Tent: @onestopeventrentals
Catering: Ralph Smith @mine_oyster_maine
