In the sweltering heat of June 2024, I packed up my camera gear and set off on a journey south to the vibrant city of New Orleans. My mission was no ordinary vacation, but to capture the love story of Jen and Jared through my lens. A tale of two hearts intertwined, set against the backdrop of this lively, eclectic city. Jen was attending a conference, and we all thought it was a great chance to get something much more vibrant than Ottawa.

Now, anyone familiar with New Orleans knows that summer can be intensely hot. Imagine the kind of heat that makes the air shimmer, where the sun blazes with such intensity that the asphalt seems to be melting. That's summer in New Orleans. The average temperatures can easily climb into the mid-90s, with humidity levels making it feel even hotter. It's a type of heat that can be stifling but also adds a certain vivacity to the city’s rhythm.

To ensure the perfect shots, I spent two days exploring the city, scouting locations that would complement Jen and Jared's love story. The city's unique charm, its blend of French, Spanish, and Creole influences, made for stunning backdrops. We decided to divide the photo session into two parts, a morning session, and a night one. This not only provided a variety of lighting and ambiance but also allowed us to escape the scorching midday heat.

Over two days, we traversed the French Quarter, chasing the perfect light, and discovering hidden gems in the city's oldest neighbourhood. The cobblestone streets, ironwork balconies, and hidden courtyards provided a vibrant backdrop to our adventure.

Here are some memories that will live in my head forever: An impromptu dance to the soulful tunes of a jazz band outside a quaint café, a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city's historic districts, which, fortunately, we managed to dodge the bill for once we discovered its exorbitant cost, and charming our way up to the balcony of a restaurant for a breathtaking view of the city as night fell.

But the real star of the shoot turned out to be the place I called home during my stay. The Selina Hostel, (now called The Catahoula Hotel) with its remarkable character, provided the most diverse backdrop for our photoshoot. The indoor-outdoor design of the hostel, the interior courtyards adorned with lush greenery, the exposed brick walls that whispered stories of the city's past, and the classic checkerboard floors created a unique, captivating setting. Every nook and cranny exuded an old-world charm that made for really memorable photographs.

The adventure in New Orleans was a blend of work and pleasure, a journey through a city that brims with life, and the opportunity to capture the beautiful love story of Jen and Jared. The heat, the music, and the adventure, all culminated in a collection of photographs as vibrant and unique as the city itself.

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