His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama

I don't write much about my non-wedding photography on this blog but want to make an exception here.

I have spent the past six days documenting the Dalai Lama's visit to Lehigh University in Bethlehem to deliver a series of teachings about a centuries-old Buddhist text.

Thousands came to hear him speak. I saw a woman burst into tears when he greeted and hugged her. After six days and 4,652 images I felt like I had a pretty good sense of the man. I was moved by him. He was humble and wise. He didn't take himself seriously although everyone around him did. He joked and laughed a lot.

Yesterday was the highlight for me when I was able to meet him. I bowed and he reached out and shook my hand and grinned really big. This from the man who is the spiritual leader to the world's 350 million Buddhists.

It was a total thrill.
Douglas

NYC

Joe snapped this picture of me shooting Adam & Lisa from the top of the truck before their wedding yesterday in the City. I had Joe and Kate with me all day - the "A Team" if ever there was one.

I think it's a funny picture. I always end up doing ridiculous things just to get into the right spot. There was a killer cobblestone street in front of their venue, the Tribeca Rooftop at Hudson & Desbrosses, and getting on top of the truck was the only way to get it.

So today has been a lot of fun going through all the images. Lisa looked amazing and Adam is just about the coolest guy ever.

Douglas

Happy 4th!!!!!

Elizabeth & David had an awesome 4th of July wedding yesterday in the backyard of her family home near Allentown. Elizabeth's dad hooked us up with a great show.

Happy 4th!
Douglas

05.25.08 Ross + Alexandra

Last summer I photographed Alex & Ross' engagement session at the Lehigh County Game Preserve. We made an engagement album with the idea that guests could sign it at their wedding. The album turned out great. It was so nice, actually, that Alex almost didn't let her guests write on it.

I felt really close to them from the very beginning of their day. They are really nice people. They were married along the Delaware River at Glen Foerd Mansion in Lower Bucks. It was a really beautiful place and I'm super happy with the images.

Alex said she is, too.

Keep in touch, you two.

Best,
Douglas