Let’s start by asking “what is the real meaning of a Baptism?”

Many Christians believe that a baptism is important because Jesus was baptized, and after his resurrection he told his disciples that they should be baptized too. This tradition has carried on centuries into our modern day society for those who are part of the Christian Church. It is an act in which water is sprinkled onto a person’s forehead (or sometimes a full immersion into water) and it symbolizes rebirth or a purification. This is how one gains passage into the Christian Church.

I’ve been a witness to so many different Baptisms and each are unique in their own way. I’ve had the pleasure of photographing a Greek Orthodox Baptism, in which after the immersion the family, godparent and priest circle the baptismal font three times. I’ve photographed a Polish Orthodox Baptism, and Baptisms in the Catholic Church. Prior to becoming a photographer, I didn’t know much of a difference between all of these different types of Ceremonies. Now having been a part of these celebrations, I’m fascinated by how each culture has it’s differences.

Now let’s talk about what gets photographed

Prior to the Ceremony, many families ask to have photos of the baby “getting ready”. If you remember the getting ready part of your Wedding day, you will find it’s very similar to this. I always ask that parents have the “details” ready. This includes the following:

• Pre-Ceremony Outfit

• Baptismal Outfit

• Baptismal Cross and Chain

• Olive Oil

• White hand towels

• Baptismal Candles

• Martyrika-in some cultures these witness pins are used which are handed out to guests at the end of a ceremony

•Additional items include shoes, a copy of the invitation for the guests, florals, or any other details you see fit.

If time allows, I usually like to get some family photos done prior to the Ceremony, but at this point in time I primarily focus on candids.

The Ceremony

Again, depending on the type of Baptism your child receives, a ceremony can be anywhere from 45-90 minutes. During this time I confirm with the Priest where I am allowed to stand and photograph. In most cases they allow me onto the alter to take close-up photos of the baby being submerged. Other than that we have the lighting of the candles and the blessings which are typically done while the Godparents, family and baby are seated in the pews. Having done many Baptisms, I am very familiar with the timing of these events.

After the Ceremony

Immediately after the Ceremony concludes I ask the Priest to jump in for a family photo. After that, we will proceed to the remaining family portrait combinations. To learn more about what types of family photos I typically take during an event you can refer to my recent blog post “Family Portrait Combinations”

The Reception

Now it’s time to have fun! During the reception I will be capturing the decor details, cake, food, cocktail reception and plenty of candids! At this point all the family photos and important rituals are covered, so parents get to sit back and enjoy. I hope this post helped those of you who are planning a Baptism in the future and be sure to send me a message with any questions you may have!