Cosmin Danila - Edmonton Wedding Photography Vancouver Toronto East Indian Sikh Hindu Muslim

Mandee & Vic - What Happens in Vegas... Doesn't Really Stay in Vegas

2012-01-26T21:30:00.000-07:00

A million thanks to Mojo from Starborn Tattoo for helping with our photo shoot:

Vic, you had me at "Cos":

And it looks like you got the girl, as well:

Congratulations, guys! Thank you so much for the fantastic Vegas nights! Can't wait for our wedding in June!

love.more.cosmin

My One and Only Bride - Trash the Photographer Session

2012-01-21T16:34:00.000-07:00

Long time ago, in December 2011, we went all the way down to Mexico for Ramneek and John's awesome wedding. My beautiful wife waited patiently many years for this occasion to trash her wedding dress in front of the camera:

That was the plan, anyways. However, as you can see in this picture - exhibit number 1 - taken by Edmonton's own DJ Vijay, the photographer got trashed much better:

We can't give enough thanks to international makeup artist Sunita Sumaru, who made Ioana unrecognizable:

Literally! And this is actually a funny story: half the people we met in the same night thought I was enjoying the evening with somebody else and kept asking where my wife was...

Well, here she is! I've always been so proud to be able to call her my wife:

Neener-neener, if I may add:

The sea took its best shot at trashing the dress, without much success:

Exhibit number 2 happens to be one of my favorite images that has me in it and it was taken by the surprisingly (for a non photographer) inspired Sunita Sumaru. While I was retrieving my life long model from the boat, Sunita decided on her own this was a good moment to snap some pictures:

Thank you so much everyone who made this possible! I hope it was as exciting for you as it was for me!

love.more.cosmin

Las Vegas - The Fremont Street Experience

2012-01-17T12:37:00.002-07:00

Flying right beneath the world's largest screen, the Viva Vision canopy, and passing half way through the "Glitter Gulch", the Flightlinez of Fremont Street are the newest thrill in downtown Las Vegas:

A blend of vintage Las Vegas and high tech wonderland, the Fremont Street Experience rivals the famous Strip. You gotta go experience it!

travel.more.cosmin

Picture of the Last Month - December

2012-01-09T23:18:00.001-07:00

As soon as winter hits Edmonton, I hit the road. It's part of the job; tough, but somebody has to do it. Every destination is a perfect destination for me: India, Boston, Mexico. It may come as a surprise for some of you, but there are awesome people all over the planet!

Andrea & Michael:

Sarah & Fahad:

Mira:

Tasveer & Harman:

Ramneek & John:

In the coming months we'll visit Las Vegas, Cuba, Mexico again, and I'll take you with me, as usual. It'll be nice and hot, so don't put too many clothes on!
Till then, you can practice your old hobby of voting for your favorite photo in the poll below. The fun ends on January 20th at 23:59. It'll never end for the winners, as they will get a fantastic print prize. Please, only one vote every 24 hours, no cyber monkey business!
I have to pack now, so I'll leave you to it:

The Future is Overexposed - New Year Resolutions

2012-01-05T23:00:00.000-07:00

Happy New Year! The future is bright and it has some sun glare for decoration:

Thank you for starting 2012 with me! I have 3 resolutions for this year:
1. 29 Megapixels (so funny, I know).
2. Work more, live less. Well, I didn't have a full day off in 2011, so that might be physically impossible. On a second thought, I'll try the exact opposite, see what happens. In related news, the wedding blog posts are going to look a little different, but I won't spoil the surprise now.
3. Go topless to the beach. Before you judge me, I didn't say go to the topless beach, but go topless to the beach. In other words I want to lose weight. I know you could have survived without knowing this, but I wanted to share something more personal, to give you the illusion that I'm human.
I hope to meet many of you over the next 12 months! Please don't take it personally if I shoot you on sight.

love.more.cosmin

Ramneek & John - When Stalactites and Stalagmites Meet (Fusion Wedding in Mexico)

2011-12-31T22:30:00.000-07:00

OK, let's slow down a little bit... This is the last wedding of 2011and the first one to involve two distinct types of ceremonies: one Sikh and one Catholic. It is also the first wedding that finds me in Mexico, at the opulent all inclusive resort Azul Sensatori, on the shores of the Caribbean Sea:

The celebrations last 3 days and begin with a ladies' sangeet/maiya/choora party:

We even have the rangoli:

It's a mix of all rituals in one:

The Hindu flavors makes it more confusing:

It looks familiar again when the jaago starts:

How do you know when the jaago is too big for you? Easy: when the jaago is too big for you:

Everybody keeps dancing till they kick us out.

The second day is for the Sikh ceremony:

This image has a few unusual characteristics. I let you find them:

A few more:

A successful sehra bandi ritual is when the groom's head is not poked by too many needles:

And his mouth is stuffed with sweets:

In the same time, the bride to be gets ready in her room. Makeup artist extraordinaire and friend Sunita Sumaru came all the way from Edmonton, Canada to help with this part:

Everybody else gathers in the main lobby of the resort for the milni. The officiant flew in from Mexico City:

Ramneek is introduced by her brother and sister in law:

And her father gives her away:

Ramneek is probably on some kind of diet, because she gives some of her prasad to John:

No worries, nobody saw it! Your secret is safe with me:

She may be married, but she's still mommy's little girl:

The week before the wedding I've spent a lot of time wondering all around the Mayan Riviera searching for a good spot to do the portrait session. I guess I found it:

It's called Aktun Chen - which is Mayan for 'natural well inside of a cave' - and it's one of the many underground cave systems in the area:

I was extremely lucky with Luis Ortiz, guest services manager at Aventura Mexicana hotel, in Playa del Carmen, who went above and beyond to facilitate the whole operation. Muchas gracias, Luis!

Also, a million thanks to Aktun Chen management for allowing us to play super models in this incredible place:

Last part of the cave is a spectacular cenote:

The following day is a pretty long one, as well, reserved for the Christian ceremony and the reception.

Now I know why Ramneek doesn't want to eat... With a total weight of well over 30 kg - maybe close to 40 kg - her dress can barely fit her:

We have a few minutes for some shots in the resort. This is not the first look, but if it was, it would have been the best 'first look' picture:

Some abstract work. Don't worry if it doesn't make sense to you! It's not supposed to.

I've been waiting quite some time for this moment, a wedding ceremony on the beach, and not even a thousand words - reportedly, that's how many a picture is worth - could express my feelings right now:

But forget my feelings! There are others more important to capture:

Thank you, Ioana, for this shot:

With this ring John takes Ramneek:

With the same ring, Ramneek impresses her maids:

John has to show something to the girls, as well:

The sun goes down quickly and we mange to snap a few more portraits before it gets completely dark:

It's a breeze:

The reception hall is ready:

And the newly weds wipe the sand off their clothes (unlike me) and make an entrance:

John takes the cake cutting opportunity to mess with his new wife's diet:

Preet makes almost everyone cry with his speech:

But, skilfully, turns things all the way around. This is also my best chance to take a historic and rare image with Ramneek's father laughing:

First dance:

Party begins. DJ Vijay is brought from Edmonton to ensure the top quality entertainment:

And the quality is ensured!

Even Dejan - the food and beverage manager who took good care of us the whole week - and the resort staff are enjoying the Punjabi rhythm:

Nia is John and Ramneek's daughter they don't have ... yet:

At 73 years of age, John's dad is unstoppable:

Naz, on the other hand, should be stopped, but it's more fun not to do it:

Congratulations, Ramneek and John! Thank you so much for inviting us to your exotic wedding! Let's do it again!

You guys are all kinds of awesome!

Happy New Year, everybody! See you in 2012!

love.more.cosmin

Tasveer & Harman Are Rocking the Rock Garden

2011-12-27T23:30:00.000-07:00

The Rock Garden of Chandigarh, India.

A place guaranteed to surprise you everywhere you look:

We manage to sneak in 20 minutes before it opens to the general public.

There's an extra payment involved, but it's so worth it:

This shoot is my first so called 'Trash the sari' photo session.

And it takes place a few days after Tasveer and Harman's wedding in Ropar, Punjab.

One more time congratulation, Tasveer and Harman! You guys rock!

love.more.cosmin

Mira is Waiting for Santa

2011-12-24T23:30:00.000-07:00

She makes sure the tree is in good shape:

And personally tests the stockings for space:

She's definitely on the nice list:

As for her parents, it seems like they got all they ever wanted:

Merry Christmas, everybody! Stay blessed!

peace.joy.happiness.love.more.cosmin

Sarah & Fahad - Muslim Wedding in Boston, USA (find the cat)

2011-12-21T22:42:00.000-07:00

The two day celebration starts with the mehndi party at the Westborough Doubletree hotel. I particularly find the low table arrangements very original:

Starting the ceremony:

Fahad's family precedes him:

He takes his place on the stage, waiting for his soon to be bride:

Sarah is welcomed with flower garlands by her future mother in law:

I'm sure president Andrew Jackson had no idea that almost two centuries later he would be a part of the mehndi ceremony:

Very active part, indeed:

We leave the dead presidents for a while and enjoy the more lively dance performances:

Up close:

Sarah's parents are the cherry(ies) on top:

Fahad himself takes the stage:

He's simply contagious and everyone follows:

Next day, before the reception, we go to Sarah's house for a few shots:

She insists we do the whole photo session here.

This image takes me back in time:

The Boston Newton Marriott is the host of the reception:

The decor is a joy to look at:

The groom is ready for baarat. He's not supposed to see much of it:

After the bride's entrance, we have a few speeches:

A few bites:

And a few more speeches:

Rabia - one of Sarah's best friends - is singing for the couple's first dance:

Delightful:

Joota Chupaiee goes a little different this time around. The girls from the bride's family couldn't steal the groom's shoes, but they managed to take his glasses.

The dead presidents are showing up again, but without his glasses, Fahad doesn't seem to count very well...

His brothers help with the negotiations:

That fails, too. An outside expert is called to sort things out. Yes, I'm talking about me:

Luckily, I have six hands or so:

Even my skills prove useless against Sophia's cunning technique and brute force:

No one can touch the money now and the presidents might feel alive again:

The whole episode sets the mood for party:

But the mood changes soon, during the rukhsati:

A trail of tears takes us all the way to the limo:

Where the last goodbyes are sobbed.

Congratulations one more time, Sarah and Fahad! Thank you so much for inviting us to your wedding celebration in Boston!

love.more.cosmin

Mexico - A Splash of Mayan Riviera

2011-12-17T08:47:00.003-07:00

The Caribbean Sea washes the east coast of Yucatan Peninsula, also known as the Mayan Riviera. This is one of the very few remaining spots that doesn't have a resort built on top. Yet.

travel.more.cosmin

Vivah Bollywood - The Fashion Show

2011-12-12T21:58:00.000-07:00

Calgary, AB. Vivah Bollywood Bridal Show. 15 South-Asian princesses. Made up by Virmani Sisters. Dressed up by Pooja's Boutique:

Gagan Sansoha:

Thisari Hewathantiri:

Ishmeet Kambo:

Rubaa Sheikh:

Amrita Mann:

Amna Yousaf:

Minusha Geekiyanage:

Mohini Puniya:

Menka Banipal:

Kali Chau:

Amanie Randev:

Michelle Prasad:

Zakhiyya Murji:

Believe it or not, after spending a few hours with these ladies, the organizers - Fusion Bollywood and Unique Event Planners - thought I deserved a certificate of appreciation, as well:

Thank you so much, everyone! We had a blast!

love.more.cosmin

Andrea & Michael - Kissing Games and Airplanes

2011-12-07T02:00:00.000-07:00

Not a mafia movie scene:

It's just how Michael decides to start his day, at Tommy Gun's original barbershop:

His brothers - Brian, also the best man and Steven, the groomsman - are going through the same ordeal:

Again, it's not a scary movie!

Back at Mike's house, everyone is getting dressed and hydrated with mimosas:

It's good to have brothers:

But I don't think the groom is gonna miss them much:

While Ioana is having fun with the boys, I'm spending my morning with the girls, at the Perugia salon:

Self portrait - kind of:

It's an emotional day for Annie's mom and this is just the beginning:

April - the maid of honour - is doing her part:

And dad is helping with the shoes:

So he can walk his daughter down the aisle:

Everybody's proud of Andrea:

Pastor David Calvert is a good singer, too:

All join in:

There's snow on the ground and no degrees in the air, so we can't stay for too long outside:

The Alberta Aviation Museum in downtown Edmonton is an ideal location for winter photo shoots:

Snapping a few more shots back at Chateau Louis Hotel:

Apparently, we have too much time:

At this point, things - and brides - are getting out of hand:

Without delay, we're heading to the reception hall, where the newly weds are welcoming everyone from dozens of pictures from their engagement session:

Andrea's dad has a little speech:

The allergies are giving Michael a hard time:

But his new wife is being a great wife already and comes prepared:

The most original and fun part of the evening are the kissing games:

Mike and Annie have to repeat whatever other couples are doing:

Almost there:

This is another kiss:

What they lack in experience, they make up for in enthusiasm:

And passion:

And this is not even the first dance:

This is:

Followed by a completely new type of dance - the dance lesson:

Salsa, to be more exact, with Daiana Moy Sanchez:

Congratulations, Andrea and Michael! Thank you so much for an amazing day!

love.more.cosmin

Picture of the Last Month - November

2011-12-02T09:30:00.001-07:00

The last picture of the last month of the year came at last! Beautiful couples, happiness and the last, but not the least, love is present in every pixel:

PJ & Raminder:

Tasveer & Harman:

Rina & Kamal:

Nicole & Don:

Ramneek & John:

Jas & Aman:

Lastly, if you want to make your favorite couple even happier, you can! All you have to do is vote for their image in the poll below and - when their picture gets the most votes - they will get a beautiful print. Yes, it will be beautiful, trust me!
The last day you can help is December 10, at 23:59 hours, when the poll closes and it gets really cold outside, anyways.

Jas & Aman - The Angel Wears Louboutin

2011-11-27T23:30:00.000-07:00

On and off, they look awesome:

They look good even when they are not in the picture:

Thank you so much, Jas and Aman! It was great spending the end of fall together!

See you next year, at our wedding!

love.more.cosmin

Ramneek & John Found the Perfect Fit

2011-11-24T22:30:00.000-07:00

Nothing really worked for John before:

Till now:

He won't let Ramneek go:

Maybe a little bit, just so he can get her back:

A huge THANK YOU to Chai Pani - an Indian bistro and clothing store - for welcoming us!

Congratulations, Ramneek and John!

It's almost time for our wedding in Mexico! Vamos a la playa!

love.more.cosmin

Nicole & Don - Smokin' Hot

2011-11-21T23:00:00.000-07:00

The title is pretty much self explanatory.

Enjoying the last seconds of fall:

Thank you so much, Nicole and Don! Can't wait for our wedding in Cuba next year!

We'll try some cigars together!

love.more.cosmin

Rina & Kamal Have their Eyes on Eachother

2011-11-17T02:14:00.001-07:00

Very expressive eyes!

So I let them do the talking.

I can't help remembering what a happy couple Rina and Kamal make.

Congratulations again!

Even fall is happy for you!

Can't wait for our wedding next year!

love.more.cosmin

Tasveer & Harman - From India, With Love

2011-11-14T23:30:00.000-07:00

This is the second time I am honored to be invited to a wedding in Punjab, India. Just like the first time, it happens in India:

Morning of the wedding. My first stop is at the car shop for a quick emergency. Next stop is at Harman's house, in a little village just outside Ropar:

He's in great shape for the big day:

I can't stay for too long as I have to get a few shots with Tasveer, as well:

She's getting ready at her father's private academy, in Ropar.

Cool necklace:

Take a closer look:

As far as wedding decor goes, every once in a while I go speechless:

Nothing of this was here a day before:

I feel safe, too:

Or not? I'm a bit confused:

The spectacular entrance of the groom makes my day:

The first to welcome him is a paparazzi squad:

The milni ritual begins:

I wanted to click this shot in the last 2 years or so, but I never had the chance, being the only photographer present:

The bride's family waits for the groom... And waits:

They welcome him with sweets:

Have you ever seen an army of waiters?

Me neither, but I've seen a regiment or two:

Breakfast has never been so ready:

Oh, hi there, mushroom tikka, long time no see:

I'm too hungry to take more pictures of the countless dishes, but you get the idea:

With a full stomach people are slowly gathering in the outdoor hall for the Anand Karaj - the Sikh marriage ceremony:

Harman presents his respects, while me and my esteemed Punjabi colleagues share the view:

Finally, Tasveer shows up, with her cousins - Sherry and Harry - leading the way:

I hope you notice how awesome this image is without me saying so:

Side by side, they take their places in front of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the final and eternal guru of the Sikhs:

The bride's brother is ushering her around the holy scripture:

While the young ragis are singing hymns of marriage:

A colorful bouquet of guests:

Including Tasveer's good friends from the Minoan International College of Crete, Greece:

The end of the wedding ceremony is followed by the departure of the Adi Granth:

And the arrival of entertainment:

Everybody finds a comfortable seat for the show:

It's early afternoon, but not early to bust a move:

In the same time lunch is being prepared:

And served out of gold plates (if you believe everything I'm saying):

The punch is popular, specially when you can match colors with your turban:

The ice cream man is very busy, as well:

I'd try it, but my mistake is that I've been watching the production process for too long:

The newly weds are ready for sagan:

The set up for this part puts Bollywood to shame:

No, I did not bring the portable studio along from Canada. You know me better than this. All this stuff belongs to the local photo teams:

I have different ideas:

I can't help myself...

Ideas that sometimes involve stunts without stunt doubles:

Congratulations one more time, Tasveer and Harman! Thank you so much for your extensive hospitality and friendship! Can't wait to see you again back in the frozen prairie!

love.more.cosmin

PJ & Raminder - Undress the Dress

2011-11-11T22:11:00.001-07:00

... or the suit:

Well, none of them yet. Not in public, anyways:

Thank you so much, PJ and Raminder, for coming out one more time!

My camera loves you long time!

Too bad it was all over when I finally got comfortable:

love.more.cosmin

!ncredible Enough For You? - Rock Garden - Chandigarh, India

2011-11-08T23:30:00.000-07:00

Chandigarh is the capital of two states: Punjab and Haryana, and is considered to be the cleanest city in India. Nek Chand Saini moved here in 1950 and started to work as a road inspector.

Some years later he founded the Rock Garden, a unique creation in the form of an open-air exhibition hall, where the artworks have been made by using industrial and urban waste.
A pretty incredible place, indeed!

travel.more.cosmin

Picture of the Last Month - October

2011-11-04T23:00:00.000-06:00

It's that time of the month again. You know, PMS. Picture of the month selection. As always, it's full of emotions:

Ady & Jayson:

Ariel & Barney:

Olga & Kamal:

Kimberley:

Dimple & Prateek:

Amanda & Brent:

Saphia & Sarah:

It also comes with a poll and a chance for you to get involved and vote for your favorite image, image that will become a beautiful print for a lucky someone.

Please don't abuse your internet rights. The fun ends on November 12, at 23:59. Till the next time:

Saphia & Sarah - Hard at Play

2011-10-31T23:00:00.000-06:00

This is how I know I'm getting old:

Even my lens can barely keep up with the girls:

Ronak is playing, too, but he doesn't know it yet:

Thank you so much for the work out, guys! We miss you!

love.more.cosmin

Amanda & Brent - Married, With Pets

2011-10-27T23:30:00.000-06:00

This is my first wedding at the Evangel Pentecostal Assembly and I'm sure it's Amanda's first, as well:

Her mom, Roberta, is lighting the ceremonial candles:

And so does Cathy, the groom's mother. This symbolizes the love and allegiance each family has for their children:

A flowery way is prepared by Charlotte:

"We have gathered here in God's presence to witness the marriage vows of Amanda and Brent":

TJ comes with creative ways to bear the ring:

Brent: "This ring I give to you as symbol of my love and I pledge to you my loyalty and devotion until we are separated by death":

Amanda: " :) :) :)":

You may kiss the bride. Charlotte, you may watch:

Good job, guys:

The bride and groom bring the love of the two families together in a united love of the new couple:

Back at the house, Diesel is very excited to congratulate everyone:

He even switches places with Brent for a while:

Something new for Brent:

Something blue for Amanda:

The geckos are so happy to see her:

Francis really wanted to be the ring bearer:

We go the the Art Gallery for a few more pictures:

The place is busy with a different event, so we can only use the stairs:

The party is at the Coast Edmonton East Hotel, in Sherwood Park:

It's my first time here and I'm impressed:

Everything is blue, including the candy bar:

There's plenty for everyone:

Not enough? Here's the biggest desert buffet I've ever seen:

Still not enough? There's cake, as well. Made by Amanda herself:

Speeches = drama:

The best man - aka the groom's dad shows everyone how Brent changed his preferences in shoe color over the years:

The tear gas stimulates the corneal nerves in the eyes to cause tearing. You can obtain the same effect with Amanda's speech:

Congratulations, Amada and Brent! Thank you so much for everything!

love.more.cosmin

Dimple & Prateek - How to Make a Husband Reservation in 2 Hours

2011-10-22T22:21:00.000-06:00

Or the pre-engagement party or - how the Hindus call it - the Roka ceremony.

Step 1 - ask Rav Flora to do your hair and makeup (she'll be more than happy to):

Step 2 - be yourself (looks good in pictures):

Step 3 - while being yourself, be confident, as well (that looks good, too):

Step 4 - make sure your future fiance is prepared at his house (by the time he realizes what's going on, it'll be too late):

Step 5 - show up (if you look like Dimple, you don't really have to do anything else):

Step 6 - meet the family (hugs are a must):

Step 7 - let the family do stuff to you (it's millennia old tradition):

Step 8 - receive gifts (this is usually the most exciting part):

Step 9 - receive more gifts (personalized ones, if possible):

Step 10 - go in the back yard, hide from the rain and strike a pose for the very talented photographer (keep being yourself, in the same time):

Step 11 - include your almost fiance in a few shots (you did come for him, after all):

Step 12 - do whatever the photographer asks you to do (before his camera gets wet):

Step 13 - take some formal pictures with the future mother in law, too (it's always a good opportunity to strengthen the relationship):

Step 14 - you should get a confirmation on the husband reservation you just made (to avoid double bookings or other type of problems):

Congratulations, Dimple and Prateek! I had so much fun with you and your family! It's just too bad I'm not available for your wedding next year!

love.more.cosmin

A Mediterranean Menu - My First Show and Sell Photo Exhibition

2011-10-19T23:35:00.000-06:00

My life revolves around and is driven by 3 passions: my wife, photography and travel. Number 4 would be eating, but I'll never admit it!

Dubrovnik, Croatia - July 2005:

Before our successful relocation to Canada 3 years ago, me and Ioana use to live in Romania, an enchanting (maybe a little too enchanting for us) country in Eastern Europe.
Istanbul, Turkey - November 2006:

But this is not about Romania and the many years spent taking pictures over there: Romanian Heritage. This is about travelling outside of Romania, to the 4 corners of Europe and beyond. More specifically, its about the spectacular lands and cultures around the Mediterranean Sea.
Lido Di Latina, Italy - May 2006:

It's hard to describe the feelings I had - but let's go with extreme excitement - when I received a proposal for a show and sell photo exhibition in a brand new restaurant on Whyte Avenue: Ousia - A Mediterranean Fare. Matthew Lakis - the proud owner - wanted some art on the walls, photographs that would resonate with the colorful flavors found on the menu.
Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia - April 2006:
Long story short, that's how this:
Genoa, Italy - April 2006:

Became this:
Each picture comes as a 12x18 inches metallic print and a total by 24x30 inches with the black mat and the metallic frame. All of them are in a limited edition of 20 and come with a certificate of authenticity. You can take any of these beauties home for only $ 475:

The excitement continues for us, as we were invited to the first day of business of the restaurant! It all went down last night. Fair warning: don't scroll down on an empty stomach! It's gonna hurt!

We had the unique chance to be the first official customers to check out the menu, place an order and salivate for a little while:

The first official drink order - that would be Ioana, of course - was a Tamarind Margarita complete with chili powder rim:

And the first official dinner service:

Ioana had the Moroccan Spiced Chicken Kebab with apricot and date chickpea curry and mint tomato jam. Believe me it tastes even better than it looks and sounds:

I had the Wild Mushroom and Mascarpone Risotto drizzled with truffle oil. But I also had like half of Ioana's - against her will - because it was too good:

Another historical first for us: ordering the desert from the digital menu. Well, until the printer is getting fixed:

Matthew himself is preparing a Bellini and Red Wine Poached Pear for Ioana:

I tried the Mascarpone Cheesecake with Cherry Compote and good thing I tried it, because now I know how a cheesecake is supposed to melt in your mouth. I think it ruined all the other cheesecakes for me:

Wish I could say that sweet baby Arassay was the first official customer that put food on her clothes, but actually it was Ioana. It happened so fast, I didn't even have the chance to take a picture, so here's the second place:

But I'll give Arassay something: she's the first one to eat with her hand and being really cute while doing it:

Congratulations, Matthew, on starting this incredible yummy new adventure! And thank you so much for the photo exhibition opportunity! The best of luck, Ousia!

travel.eat.love.more.cosmin

Kimberley's Wish

2011-10-16T22:29:00.000-06:00

For her 20th birthday, Kim wanted a photo shoot with Cosmin Danila.

Luckily for me, I'm the only Cosmin Danila she knows.

Delicate makeup by Amber Ali:

Thank you so much, Kim! We had a great time together!

love.more.cosmin

Olga & Kamal Won the Jackpot

2011-10-13T22:10:00.002-06:00

Their story starts a while ago, but for you - my faithful blog visitors - it all begins when I start taking pictures and that's on a chilly September evening:

This is when the ladies' sangeet/chunni ceremony happens. Olga's priorities are very well defined:

Kamal is fed a few pounds of sweets:

I think he's full:

Sounds like a party:

Enter the jaago:

The mehndi party takes place on a late October evening, right before the wedding day:

The present ladies are beautifully decorated by two skillful henna artists - Rukhshinda Zubair and Simran Athwal:

The bottom of the feet design looks familiar, doesn't it:

It's easy to notice how good is Olga at multitasking, but don't ask her to plan your big day! She's making the schedule for the wedding ceremonies after they began:

But Lord Ganesha is here, so I'm not worried:

Next day is the wedding and we're at Olga's at 5 am for a few very early morning rituals. She's warming up for the maiya:

For some of us it's way too early:

It doesn't mean you can't have a smile on your face:

And even one on your knee:

Olga's mom creates some rangoli art on the glass door:

Outside is still dark and the wedding bangles are prepared for the choora ceremony:

Hindus need a pandit (priest) for that and he's here, waking up whoever is still sleeping:

Slowly, the bracelets are going where they are supposed to stay for one year:

All done:

Ioana takes over the photography from here and Shana Chowdhury takes over the makeup:

Not before a quick snack:

Monica is a little behind with the makeup:

But she can get all the final touches in the limo:

Meanwhile, I'm at the hotel where the future groom's family spent the night. They all came from Calgary to get a wife for Kamal.

This is proof that maiya ceremony can be completed in under two minutes:

With very pleasant results, too:

After a needed shower, Kamal has to step on a bunch of clay pots and brake them:

With a little team effort, we have a perfectly usable groom in minutes:

Of course mom is so proud of him:

A very excited baraat procesion makes its way to the Hindu Mandir of Bhartiya Cultural Society of Alberta:

Kamal is welcomed by his soon to be mother in law:

The milni ritual is fueled by love:

Hindu gods are waiting inside:

The flower girls:

Kids find the perfect moment and place to play tag:

The traditional greeting by exchanging the garlands goes differently than usual:

Olga probably needed some lasso training for this challenge:

I'll turn off the commentary for a little while so you can enjoy the ceremony in silence (actually, I don't want to spend two more hours thinking of something smart to say):

"Take this fourth step with me towards welfare and total well being of each other":

Olga is welcomed in Kamal's family:

The weather is tricky this time of the year (in Alberta that means the whole year), so we have to hide away from the rain for some shots:

This is too easy! I let you comment on it:

Guess what - Olga is hungry again:

And she needs some money for the vending machine:

The fun is over and some more ... fun begins. Obviously we're back at Olga's place and Kamal is well received by his new wife's family:

Kamal's brothers are engineers and looks like they don't have a chance negotiating against Neha:

Pretty soon she gets what she wants:

Olga is ready to leave her family now:

She's going to live in Calgary with the man she loves.

It's customary for her brothers to push their car away. Not all the way to Calgary, only for a few meters:

Congratulations, Olga and Kamal! Thank you so much for everything!

love.more.cosmin

Ariel & Barney - A Formidable Duo

2011-10-10T23:43:00.001-06:00

Ariel and Barney invited us to Grande Prairie for a photo shoot in their new home:

Their friends, Natasha and Vick, want some pictures, as well:

Everything goes well for a while:

Until Natasha and Vick decide to take advantage of their generosity and invade their quarters:

Barney retaliates and seizes the remote control:

But the conflict ends very soon and all four are watching the game together:

Back in Edmonton, after a few short days, the sweetest - literally - surprise gift shows up at our door:

And the sweetest - metaphorically - note:

Thank you so much for inviting us to Grande Prairie! We had a really great time with your family! A special thank you for the yummy treat! I promise to share!

love.more.cosmin

Ady & Jayson - No Turn Around

2011-10-07T15:36:00.001-06:00

Adriene is getting ready at her Matron of Honor's house. Nice house! Very nice Ady:

Other view of the dress, the one I don't get to see very often:

The awesome necklace is from her grandma:

You thought the bigger the rock, the greater the value, right? Wrong:

While we're talking about sizes, let me confuse you a little bit:

Still thinking about it?

Here's a clue:

I may not be good at marketing, socializing or business in general, but you know what? I'd rather be creative than all the above! It just makes me happy:

This is my first outdoor wedding in Canada. The ceremony takes place at Sunridge Ski Area on a late September sunny and hot day:

I told you it was hot:

The atmosphere is complete with heavenly sounds from Hannah Elossias' harp:

Now the father of the bride can enter and he's not coming alone:

Ioana uses a different angle and lens:

Emotions. All kinds of them:

Officiant Doug Sedore is funny:

The Bible is opened by Marilyn Stuart and she reads from Ephesians 5, giving the couple instructions on how to love each other:

The wedding ring embodies the continuous flow of love, a circle that symbolizes eternity where there's no beginning and no end (I read that somewhere):

Lighting of the Unity Candle ceremony is a relatively young tradition and it's most popular in North America:

Just married:

We find some nearby locations for pictures:

Much better than I hoped for:

A few more shots with the bridal crew back in Sherwood Park:

Time to rush to the party:

Which goes down at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Hall:

Speeches and toasts:

Danny - the best man - is simply hilarious. He can do this for a living:

There has been some complaints regarding Jayson's lack of determination when it comes to giving up his old clothes. To make things hopeless, his mom and dad show Ady her husband's blanky, since he was a little boy:

Sweet stuff:

More colors at the candy bar:

This is the level of M&M's peanuts before I had the chance to stock for Winter:

First dance:

Same dance:

Father and daughter dance:

Mother and son:

Everybody's dance:

Freestyle dance! The way kids do it:

The way enthusiasts do it:

And the professional's way:

Congratulations one more time, Ady and Jayson! Thank you so much for an awesome day!

love.more.cosmin

Picture of the Last Month - September

2011-10-02T23:58:00.000-06:00

I decided to take a day off today. Because it's Mahatma Gandhi's birthday! And, according to my facebook profile, it's my birthday, as well! What was that? How old am I? Well, I'm only a little younger than Gandhi and maybe in a little better shape. Just maybe.

You may not be very familiar with this quote by Mahatma: "I believe in equality for everyone, except reporters and photographers". And I may not be very sure of what he meant by it, but here I am to prove him wrong .... or right. Our awesome candidates for the picture of the last month contest:

Dimple & Navodit:

Melanie & Jassie:

Andrea & Michael:

Tania & Uthman:

Ariya:

Radhika & Saieesha:

Sam & Karmi:

Arman:

You know what else Mohandas Karamchand said? "You may never know what results come of your action, but if you do nothing there will be no result". In this case, he might have been referring to the poll below. You have to vote for your favorite image! I don't really have just one favorite, but I'll vote, too! Once a day, just like everyone else! The game is over on October 10th, at 23:59 hours.

I think this is also a good day and time to let you know that I have the absolute honor to be the official photographer of the first and only South Asian Bridal Expo in Calgary, Alberta. If you want to see me in action or simply to bother me when I'm working, October 30th 2011, at the Commonwealth Hall will be the best time and place. More info on the Vivah Bollywood site. I hope to see you all there! This is even more important than voting! "Almost everything you do, will seem insignificant, but it is very important that you do it". Yeah, it felt awfully appropriate to end with another one of Gandhi's words of wisdom.

I'm going back to my day off now, whatever is left of it.

Arman - The Little Prince of the Prairie

2011-09-29T23:47:00.000-06:00

Arman, thank you very much for taking us out!

love.more.cosmin

Sam & Karmi - The Flowers of Devonian Gardens

2011-09-26T23:55:00.002-06:00

The flora of northern Alberta is very exotic:

Karmi came all the way from UK to pick himself a special flower:

Are you thinking what I'm thinking?

Well, I'm thinking Karmi is a lucky guy:

Congratulations on your engagement, Sam and Karmi! I'm really sorry I'm not available for your wedding next year!

love.more.cosmin

Radhika & Saieesha - To Watch Us Dance is to Hear Our Hearts Speak

2011-09-23T01:08:00.000-06:00

Bharata Natyam is one of the oldest dance forms in India. It is heavily based on devotion, worship and discipline, originating from Tamil Nadu in South India.

The Arangetram (graduation) program begins with a prayer:

Radhika and Saieesha receive their foot bells from their guru - Kusum Koushik. They will need them in order to 'wake up the gods':

Each dance is based on a specific god:

The high school girls have been practicing this art for the last 10 years.

Bharata Natyam, as the name depicts, is the combination of: BHA - Bhava (Expression), RA - Raga (Music) and TA - Tala (Rhythm).

Traditionally, the dance was performed by Devadasis (community of temple dancers) in the ancient temples.

The Devadasis were women who dedicated their lives to serving the temple deity as dancers and musicians.

The tips of the fingers and toes are colored red to emphasize the gracious movements:

There are three costume changes in the show.

I could talk some more, but I'd only ruin it, so I let you watch and enjoy:

Fantasy of abstract dance, scintillating passages of movement and rhythm (sorry, last one):

Bravo!

The teacher congratulates her 26th and 27th students for graduating today from Nrityalaya dance academy, institution started by Kusum Koushik:

The disciples thank their guru and parents by touching their feet:

Congratulations, Radhika and Saieesha! Thank you so much for inviting us to your Indian classical dance debut!

And just when you thought things couldn't get any more spectacular, I decide to show Radhika what I've learnt in India! This is the level of achievement after years of practicing in front of the computer, editing pictures:

dance.love.more.cosmin

Ariya Is Still Taking My Breath Away

2011-09-19T23:30:00.000-06:00

I'm not the only victim. Mommy and daddy are hooked for life:

Who wouldn't be, really?

Double dose:

This is making history! The only superbaby who actually reached out and wanted to come into my arms! And you thought the pink beard was not working:

Thank you so much, Ariya! We already miss you like crazy!

love.more.cosmin

Tania & Uthman - Pakistani Wedding in Edmonton

2011-09-16T22:48:00.001-06:00

Tania's last few minutes as a single girl:

The nikah ceremony will be broadcasted live all the way in London, UK:

The groom to be and his family come from Toronto and are welcomed by the bride's parents and relatives:

The basement is lively decorated for the occasion:

The prayer is part of the Muslim wedding ceremony:

It can be done with one hand, as well:

Actually, it looks like the cameras are a must have prayer accessory:

And it's done! Uthman is congratulated by his father in law:

In a different room, Tania has to sign the marriage contract. It's only the most important part of the nikah and, evidently, one auntie thinks this is the perfect time to jump in front of me, to arrange her maang tikka:

The bride is going to leave her parents and move to Toronto right after the wedding.

She comes downstairs, ready to meet her new husband:

Uthman is ready to meet her, as well:

With bling and everything:

Turns out the backyard is the right place for a few snaps:

The reception is the next day and we take some more pictures at the Sandman Hotel:

The Mirage Banquet Hall is in celebration mode:

Things get even more obvious when Choo Choo the Clown shows up:

He'll be busy all night:

It's ime for the groom and his family to make an entrance:

Followed by his bride:

A few speeches:

And a very rare flower from Choo Choo:

What can I tell you about the food? Well, good thing you can't see me now! This wedding season has been way to hard on me and my pants:

This is the part where Tania's sisters bring a glass of what seems to be cocoa milk for Uthman:

He has to drink it, but - surprising enough - he doesn't trust his new sisters in law and he asks his wife to taste it first. Tania is more brave:

Not only Uthman didn't ask for the milk, but now he has to pay lots of cash for it:

The departure is a very emotional affair:

Tears can't be refrained while Tania is saying goodbye to her family:

Congratulations, Tania & Uthman! May you have a lifetime of love and happiness together!

love.more.cosmin

Andrea & Michael - The Young and The Restless

2011-09-12T23:55:00.000-06:00

My bravest couple to date! Allow me to demonstrate:

You want more proof?

Congratulations, Andrea & Michael! I can't thank you enough for saying yes to my ideas even before I asked the questions!

Now I'm dreaming of a Trash the Dress session on a frozen waterfall in a land not very far away ...

PS. I don't agree with this, but it's quite photogenic:

love.more.cosmin