I got a phone call from Simeona’s Dad last night.
He is a 7 foot tall Orthodox Priest who rocks a Santa Claus beard, ponytail, robe and crucifix around his neck, so it’s fair to say that he has a bit of a presence. Upon first meeting him, he instantly proclaimed ‘You’re not an Eric! You’re… Sebastian!’, and so for the remainder of my time in Montenegro Sebastian was my adopted name. I took an instant liking of this quirky Priest. I didn’t mind my new alias either.
Perhaps the big guy upstairs may have given my new friend Father Radan a nudge to call me last night because the timing of the call could not have been more perfect. I answered the phone to a stern yet jovial ’Hello Sebastian’. I instantly smiled ear to ear. Who would have thought I’d be sitting on my couch at 8 o’clock at night chatting to an Orthodox Priest that I met while shooting his daughter’s wedding in Montenegro? I live for this stuff. We chatted about all things photography, art and relationships. It was exactly what I needed.
So with that in mind, I figure today is the day to share this story. It was a profoundly beautiful, unique and a powerful experience that was inspiring to photograph. At the core, of course, is our couple – Simeona & Mirko. We had a lot of laughs which is always great, but the thing that struck me the most about this couple is that they both seemed almost from another time and place. Mirko is an absolute gentleman and Simeona was like this graceful, calm and beautiful princess (but with a witty sense of humor). They clearly shared a strong connection which lies at the heart of this special story…
FEATURED BY HELLO MAY & RANGEFINDER
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