The night before, I searched through my closet for lightweight, breathable clothing to help prevent another one of the harsh headaches I’ve been getting from the summer heat. The heat wave had settled over the Rhône Valley by the following Sunday morning, and by the time I arrived at the Cathedral of Valence, I already knew it was going to be a warm photoshoot.

The temperature outside the cathedral was scorching with the sun beating down relentlessly. But without giving much thought to the weather, I immediately began navigating my way around the cathedral, searching for the best places to capture the behind-the-scenes moments. I had to think quickly—finding patches of shade, tight corners, and angles that would allow me to work discreetly while staying out of the ceremony’s way. 

As soon as I stepped inside the cathedral, the familiar scent of frankincense instantly took me back to my childhood when I attended each Sunday Mass with my mom. I attended many times at the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in downtown Oahu. After church, my mom would always bring me to Ala Moana to get lunch as a treat for being a good little girl and attending mass with her. The musty aroma of the old stone walls mixed with the burning candles brought back memories I hadn’t thought about in years.

I’ve always enjoyed photographing inside churches. Maybe “enjoy” isn’t quite the right word. I appreciate the challenge. Every church has its own personality, and each one asks something different of me as a photographer.

The Cathedral of Valence was no exception. Stepping inside felt like stepping back in time. The walls carried centuries of history, the stone floors showed their age with uneven cracks and worn surfaces, and there wasn’t a hint of air conditioning to escape the summer heat.

The lighting, though… that’s where the fun begins. The cathedral was filled with warm tungsten lights that cast a deep golden glow throughout the space. It’s beautiful to experience in person, but it can be challenging to photograph. This is where I get excited. Setting up my lights, balancing the ambient light with my flashes, and preserving the atmosphere while keeping everyone’s skin tones natural is like solving a puzzle. Every venue teaches me something new, and I genuinely enjoy figuring it out. The priest mentioned that different parts of the ceremony would take place throughout the cathedral, so I had to be strategic about where I placed my lighting. I wanted to be prepared without becoming a distraction.

I have to give a little shout-out to my husband. He never complains when I ask him to help carry light stands, flashes, and camera bags. Having an extra pair of hands makes such a difference, especially on warm days when the equipment feels twice as heavy. His help allowed me to focus on what I love most—telling a family’s story.

This story belonged to little Anastasia.

Around forty friends and family gathered to celebrate her baptism, and watching her throughout the ceremony was one of my favorite parts of the morning. She had this sweet little personality that quietly revealed itself through curious glances, tiny smiles, and peaceful moments in the arms of those who love her. Those are the moments I’m always searching for behind the camera. They aren’t posed—they simply happen.

One part of the ceremony especially stayed with me. After Anastasia’s parents received their blessing, a close family friend stepped forward to sing Ave Maria. As soon as she began, the cathedral came alive. Her voice echoed beautifully through the old stone walls, filling every corner of the space. It was breathtaking. I remember getting chills as I stood there listening. For those few minutes, I wasn’t thinking about my camera settings or the next photograph—I was simply present, taking in the beauty of the moment alongside everyone else.

People sometimes ask if difficult lighting or uncomfortable weather makes photography less enjoyable.

For me, it doesn’t. Those little challenges become part of the experience. They push me to think creatively and remind me that every location has its own character. By the end of the hour-and-a-half ceremony, I had completely forgotten about the heat. I was simply grateful to have witnessed another family’s special milestone.

As I packed away my cameras and lights, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for everyone who places their trust in me. Every baptism, birthday, or celebration is another chapter in someone’s life, and for a brief moment, I’m invited to witness it through my lens.

Thank you, Nathan and your family, for allowing me to preserve a small piece of Anastasia’s story. Photography has introduced me to people I may never cross paths with again, yet for a brief moment, I’m welcomed into one of the most meaningful days of their lives.

I am always grateful to the people who entrust me with these special moments. Long after the decorations are put away and the day becomes a memory, I hope my photographs allow families to relive the joy, the love, and the emotions they shared. That is a privilege I will never take for granted.

Love and Aloha,

Pen~