There’s no harm in wanting a wedding portrait that really stands out from everyone else’s — except when firearms are involved.

The wedding of two Italian sweethearts was canceled after their wedding photographer, Calogero Scimea, was shot in the head and killed during a portrait session. The couple’s original photographer had fallen ill, so Scimea subbed in at the last minute to ensure everything went off without a hitch.

From the couple’s statements and the police report, it’s been established that the photographer asked the groom’s parents if they had any guns to use as props in a picture. In southern Italy, guns are traditionally fired at special family events, so the request wasn’t out-of-the-ordinary.

Two guns were given to the couple, and as Scimea grabbed one to position it correctly, it discharged. The bullet struck him in the head and instantly killed him.

Police noted “the firearms were legally held, but they should all be kept safe and not be handled by people who are not used to them and have no experience.” Because the incident occurred on the groom’s parents’ property, they may be prosecuted for the death, though no charges have been filed.

Tags: Firearms, Italy, Photographer, Wedding