As a wedding photographer, I live for authentic moments&mdash;the kind that make you laugh, tear up, and relive the day exactly as it happened. And when a couple wants to throw convention out the window and celebrate their love in a place that truly speaks to them? That&rsquo;s where the magic happens.
Recently, I had the absolute joy of photographing an engagement session at Arcade Odyssey in Miami, Florida. Let me tell you&mdash;this place is a dream for anyone looking to mix nostalgia, fun, and a bit of creative chaos into their photos. If you&rsquo;re considering a vintage arcade session, here&rsquo;s how to make it truly epic.
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<h2>1. Play with the Lights &amp; Colors</h2>
Vintage arcades are a playground of neon hues, flickering screens, and retro signage. Use these vibrant elements to your advantage! I love shooting with a mix of natural ambient lighting from the arcade itself and a touch of off-camera flash for a dramatic pop. If the couple is lost in the glow of a game screen, that&rsquo;s a perfect moment&mdash;let the blues and purples wash over them, creating an intimate, cinematic feel.
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<h2>2. Get Candid with the Games</h2>
One of my favorite things about Arcade Odyssey is that it&rsquo;s packed with games that bring out everyone&rsquo;s inner child. Encourage the couple to actually play! Catching their genuine reactions&mdash;whether it&rsquo;s the triumphant high-five after a win or the dramatic defeat slump when they lose&mdash;makes for storytelling gold. I always remind my couples to forget the camera is there and just enjoy the moment. The best shots come when they&rsquo;re completely in the zone, battling it out in Street Fighter or teaming up on a pinball machine.
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<h2>3. Use the Arcade as a Backdrop</h2>
The arcade itself is an art piece. Rows of vintage cabinets, neon reflections on the floor, and even the token machines make for killer compositions. I like to frame couples between machines to create depth or use mirrors and screens for creative reflections. Shooting through a joystick panel or peeking over a game screen can also add a cool, immersive perspective to the photos.
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<h2>4. Embrace Motion &amp; Blur</h2>
Arcades are full of energy&mdash;so why not capture it? Using a slower shutter speed, I&rsquo;ll sometimes blur the background to emphasize movement while keeping the couple in focus. This technique makes it feel like they&rsquo;re frozen in time while the world of blinking lights and pixelated action buzzes around them. It&rsquo;s a fantastic way to add some dynamic flair.
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<h2>5. Bring in Some Retro Flair</h2>
If your couple is into it, lean into the vintage vibes with wardrobe choices. Think bomber jackets, high-top sneakers, or even a pop of &lsquo;80s-inspired fashion. It can enhance the aesthetic and make the photos feel like they&rsquo;re straight out of a classic arcade era. And if they have any props&mdash;game tokens, controllers, or even a Polaroid camera&mdash;incorporating those into the shoot can add an extra layer of nostalgia.
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<h2>6. End with a Sweet Moment</h2>
After all the excitement, I always love to wrap up with a quiet, intimate shot. Maybe it&rsquo;s a soft focus kiss under the glow of a neon sign, a silhouette framed by arcade lights, or a moment of laughter as they share a victory (or defeat). Ending on a sweet note balances the session and gives the couple a moment to just&nbsp;be&nbsp;together.
Photographing at Arcade Odyssey was hands down one of the most creative and exciting shoots I&rsquo;ve done. There&rsquo;s something about the mix of nostalgia, playfulness, and love that makes an arcade session feel so effortlessly cool. If you and your partner are looking for a unique, offbeat way to capture your love story&mdash;this is it.
So, grab your tokens and let&rsquo;s make some magic.
Game on!
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<a href="https://arcadeodyssey.com/">Arcade Odyssey</a> 12045 SW 117th Ave, Miami, FL 33186

Title: Capturing Love in 8-Bit: A Wedding Photographer’s Guide to Vintage Arcade Magic

Your wedding day is full of moments you'll want to relive, and hiring a pro photographer makes sure those memories are captured just right. From the big smiles to the little details, they&rsquo;ll help you hold onto the magic of your special day forever.
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Photography is more than just clicking a button; it's about capturing the essence of a moment, the raw emotion, and the love that fills the air on your special day. And that's what I bring to the table. With over a decade of experience in the field, I've honed my skills, not just in shooting photos, but in bringing out the best in people. I know how to make you feel comfortable and at ease in front of the lens, knowing full well that the best photos come when you&rsquo;re relaxed and being yourself.
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Beyond the photos themselves, there's also the peace of mind that comes with hiring a professional. When you hire me, you're not just getting a photographer, you're getting a partner in your wedding journey. I'm there to help you through every step of the way, from planning the shots to selecting the perfect backdrop and setting up the lighting. You won't need to worry about missing a moment, because I'll be there to capture them all.
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I understand that every wedding is unique, every couple has their story, and every moment is precious. That's why I pour my heart and soul into capturing your day in a way that reflects your personality, your love, and your joy. I'm not just a spectator, but a participant in your celebration, immersing myself in the atmosphere and working alongside you to create a visual narrative of your special day.
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When it comes to capturing the most important day of your life, there's no room for compromise. You deserve someone who can not only take stunning photos, but also put you at ease, understand your vision, and deliver a service that surpasses your expectations. That's why hiring a professional photographer for your wedding is not just a good idea, it's a must.
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In the end, it's about more than just photos. It's about creating memories that will last a lifetime, and for that, you need someone who is more than just a photographer. You need someone who cares as much about your wedding day as you do. And that's exactly what I offer. So, why not reach out and let's start creating beautiful memories together?

Why Hire a Professional Photographer for Your Wedding?

Hey there! I'm thrilled to guide you through some of the most stunning wedding venues in Miami, Florida. Now, these are not your typical hotel ballrooms. They are unique, full of character, and perfect for creating unforgettable memories. So, let's dive in, shall we?
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1. <a style="color: rgb(236, 240, 241);" href="https://www.spanishmonastery.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ancient Spanish Monastery</a>: If you're looking to tie the knot amidst history and grandeur, this is the place for you. The Ancient Spanish Monastery, with its stunning stone architecture and lush gardens, is a delight to the eyes. It's perfect for those grand, traditional weddings and the cool Florida winters are the best time to get hitched here. The venue's beauty is at its peak during this time, with the gardens in full bloom.
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2. <a style="color: rgb(236, 240, 241);" href="https://www.villa-woodbine.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Villa Woodbine</a>: This historic villa, with its private, lush grounds and Mediterranean-Renaissance architecture, offers an intimate setting for your special day. Whether you're planning an elopement or a smaller, more intimate wedding, Villa Woodbine has got you covered. The best time to get married here? Spring, when the weather is just right and the villa's gardens come alive with color.
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3. <a style="color: rgb(236, 240, 241);" href="https://vizcaya.org/visit-2/wedding-events/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vizcaya Museum and Gardens</a>: This venue is a vintage-lover's dream. With its European-inspired architecture, stunning gardens, and views of Biscayne Bay, it's perfect for couples looking for a touch of old-world charm. The venue is perfect for medium to large weddings, and while it's beautiful all year round, the best time to get married here is during Fall, when Miami's weather is at its most pleasant.
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4. <a style="color: rgb(236, 240, 241);" href="https://deeringestate.org/venue-rentals/miami-wedding-venues/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-invalid="true">The Deering Estate</a>: Nestled along the edge of Biscayne Bay, The Deering Estate is all about natural beauty. With its historic houses, lush gardens, and stunning waterfront views, it's perfect for outdoor weddings. The venue is best suited for medium-sized weddings, and the best time to get married here is during Spring, when the estate's flora is in full bloom.
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5. <a style="color: rgb(236, 240, 241);" href="http://www.cruzbuildings.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Cruz Building:</a> If you're all about that vintage glamour, The Cruz Building, with its ornate decor, stunning stained glass, and three grand floors, is the venue for you. It's perfect for grand weddings, and the best time to get married here is during Winter, when Miami's weather is at its coolest.
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Remember, these are your memories we're talking about. So, take your time, visit these venues if you can, and choose the one that feels most 'you'. After all, we're in this together!

Top 5 Non-Hotel Wedding Venues in Miami, Florida

Our experience with Gabriel Luis Photography was absolutely outstanding. Gabriel and his team went above and beyond to ensure that our wedding day was not only beautifully captured but also ran smoothly. Their dedication, hard work, and attention to detail were evident in every photograph. I can't express enough how much I appreciate the care they put into their work. If you're in search of a top-notch photography team, I highly recommend Gabriel Luis Photography. They made our day truly special. Five stars without a doubt!

Gabriel Torres

From the moment we met Gabe we instantly knew he was going to be our photographer for our wedding. From the engagement session to the wedding it was nothing but smooth sailing. His team is top tier! (Moses) was the best. Day of the wedding they had everything organized and kept us on track. The team captured every moment of our special day. Gabe always let US enjoy OUR wedding. He didn’t pull us every 5 minutes like we noticed in other weddings. So comfortable with them even with personal moments. Sneak peek was amazing and we can’t wait to see the final video and photos. Don’t hesitate to hire Gabriel Luis!  - Peter and Marissa 2.2.24

Peter Wolz

Where do I even begin?!
Gabriel went above and beyond my expectations! He truly makes sure to capture every little detail you say is important to you. There are not many brides that actually enjoy their meal during their reception or even make it to their cocktail hour but I was that Bride all thanks to Gabriel. He made it to my Air bnb to take some pictures with my bridesmaid and I as we did final touches on our makeup. All of our family and friends raved about Gabriel and how you can see he truly loves what he does. One major thing I told my husband after the wedding was I cannot believe how comfortable we felt being photographed by Gabriel (this is coming from two people that are not photogenic).

Tang Daisy

How can I begin this review without getting emotional…. My husband and I met Gabriel during our tasting at Hacienda Los Robles, and the best decision we have ever done was choosing him as our photographer for the most important day of our lives. If I were to describe Gabriel in a couple words, it would be “ A wizard behind the lens” he will make your pictures look part of a fairytale! I am so happy we chose him, we will keep using him as our family photographer for many years to come. If you want your wedding/event to look AMAZING choose him.

Adriana Suarez

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Capture the essence of your special day with our Intimate Wedding Day Photo Package. Priced at $2900, this package is designed for couples who want to focus on the key moments of their wedding day without the need for extensive coverage. You'll receive 6 hours of professional photography, perfect for smaller, more intimate weddings where every moment matters. Included are high-resolution digital downloads with a print release, allowing you to relive your day through beautiful prints or share them with loved ones. For an added personal touch, an optional engagement portrait session can be included, making this package ideal for couples who value a blend of simplicity and elegance on their wedding day. Want more? Enhance your memories with our optional video coverage and edits add-on, featuring 6 hours of coverage, various curated cuts, and complementary drone footage (weather and venue permitting).

Intimate Wedding Day Photo (6h)

Don't miss a moment of your wedding with our Intimate Wedding Day Photo + Video Package. Priced at $4700, this package is crafted for couples who seek a balance of simplicity and sophistication, ensuring that the most important parts of your wedding day are beautifully documented. With 6 hours of professional coverage, this package is perfect for intimate weddings where every detail counts. You'll receive high-resolution digital downloads with a print release, giving you the freedom to create stunning prints or share your memories with loved ones. In addition to photography, this package includes a 1080p digital video download, allowing you to relive your day through cinematic storytelling. You'll receive two video edits: an Experience Cut (10-20 minutes) that captures the essence of your wedding day and a Trailer Cut (3-5 minutes) that highlights the most memorable moments. For those who want to add a personal touch, an optional engagement portrait session can also be included, making this package ideal for couples who appreciate elegance and timeless memories.

Intimate Wedding Day Photo + Video (6h)

Capture every moment of your wedding day with our Ultimate Wedding Photo + Video Package. This all-inclusive package provides 8-10 hours of coverage with both a second photographer and a second videographer, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. You'll receive high-resolution digital photo downloads with a print release, along with a full suite of video edits, including an Experience Cut (10-20 min), Trailer Cut (3-5 min), Ceremony Cut, and Speeches Cut, all delivered in 1080p HD. Customize your package further with optional extras like an engagement portrait session, rehearsal dinner coverage, or a beautifully crafted 10" album or 16x24 wall art to showcase your favorite moments. This package is perfect for couples who want a comprehensive and beautifully captured record of their special day.

Ultimate Wedding Day Photo + Video (8-10h)

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All You Need (Website + Booking System) Plan

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Video Title

You will find the about page from my existing website between the “” below. You can use this section primarily for tone of voice and style as opposed to content. Make sure that all references to the self are in the first person singular, as I am the only photographer on my team. Please also ensure that there are no references to “our team” or “our photographer”. Instead, all writing should be coming directly from me. I would also like it to be quite down to earth and without lots of fluff and flowery language.
"I’m Gabe. I want to be your wedding photographer. 
Documenting the story of love and family has been the most challenging and rewarding work, which I’ve dedicated my career to this past decade. 
I take my craft seriously, myself not so much. The from creative portraits to silly snapshots, I’m here to document the day your love is celebrated by your favorite people. 
Photography and music are my lifelong passions. My grandfather gave me a guitar the same year my parents bought me a camera. When I played in punk rock and hardcore music bands we were all about community and presence. My photography work and approach to wedding photography take the same approach. We’re in this together. "