Overseas Pre Wedding Photoshoot in Armenia

I was presented with a challenge when Chris and Marianna approached me for their destination wedding photos. They like to have it in Europe, with castles, somewhere uncommon and their most recent trip was to Romania. Another challenge was they have combined, travelled most of Europe.

I pondered at my globe, yes I have a large globe in the studio, taking into consideration they are well-travelled and adventurous, I suggested why not we try Armenia or Azerbaijan? A short moment of research later we have an answer and thus the Overseas Pre Wedding Photoshoot in Armenia was born.

Pre-departure, we had a few rounds of discussion, going through the list of locations that I’ve prepared with a suggested itinerary. Preparation is important, so all parties know what to expect and the alternatives that are lined up.

Here we are in high spirits, waiting for our flight to Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. Being our first time in Armenia, we were really excited and looking forward to the sights and cuisine.

Republic Square, Yerevan

Streets of Armenia with the occasional Lada.

Zvarnots Cathedral

We headed first to postcard-perfect Zvartnots Cathedral with the majestic Mount Ararat as a backdrop which was used as one of our locations for the shoot.

Snow Mountains in Armenia

Then we headed up the mountains (not Mt. Ararat) to check out some views but to our surprise, we were met with lots of snow. It’s really interesting to see snow in the predominantly dry landscape of Armenia. Thankfully there’s food up there (and coffee!), yet another surprise, which filled our empty stomachs.

Khor Virap

Another monastery not far from Yerevan is Khor Virap. It is also backed by the famous Mount Ararat which you can find showing on some denominations of the Armenian Dram (AMD), even though Mount Ararat is in Turkey.

Here at Khor Virap, a stone’s throw from Turkey, Mount Ararat looks even closer.

Noravank

Next, we explored further away from Yerevan, to this very special monastery nestled within the cliffs. I’m just amazed at how remote the monastery is and it speaks so much of the devotion of the monks & bishops who built them.

We’re so mesmerised by the views throughout the country.

Tatev Monastery

This has to be one of the most breathtaking locations in the whole of Armenia, and one of the most remote and spectactular. It is more than 4 hours away from Yerevan. There’s something about monasteries and remoteness.

The views here were simply breathtaking. So was Armenian food.

Getting gas for the car and views as we approached Yerevan.

Armenia has been good to us, its been wonderful and the people friendly and warm. There’s so much to like about here.

Yerevan

Thank you to all who have made this shoot possible. Armenia, you’re wonderful.

John