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It’s a poignant moment for the mother, who cried at having to give away her daughter. It was a photo she didn’t want me to take. I felt duty bound to respect her wishes, given the kindness they had shown me. It was an incredible feeling to be accepted as a Yoruk woman, and being able to snap the biggest and most intimate days of their lives.When the bride is ready, the husband and remaining family from both sides must come to the front door to take her to her new home. But before crossing the doorstep for the last time as a single woman, her father must give her to his new in-laws. This all happens silently and without any food or drink being consumed. The bride never speaks, she is just silent, covered head to toe and waiting for the moment she see’s her husband. Village girls must get married before they turn 23 years old, otherwise it gets harder to find a husband and it’s considered bad luck not to settle down. Be sure, she’s very excited because she is getting married.15