BEAUTIFUL. REAL. THE UNEXPECTED.

Modern documentary wedding photography for all couples in love.

Wedding Photography: More Than Just Taking Pictures

When you think of a wedding photographer, you might envision someone simply snapping photos throughout the day. However, the role of a wedding photographer goes far beyond just taking pictures. As a dedicated wedding photographer in the Hudson Valley, I provide a comprehensive service that ensures every aspect of your special day is beautifully documented and runs smoothly. Here’s a look at the multifaceted role of a wedding photographer and why choosing the right professional is crucial for your wedding day.

Pre-Wedding Planning and Consultation

Before the big day arrives, your wedding photographer will engage in thorough planning and consultation to understand your vision and preferences.

What This Involves:

  • Initial Online Meetings: We start with an in-depth discussion about your wedding day plans, your style preferences, and any specific shots you want. For us, this starts the first time we talk to you over zoom or on the phone. We develop a customized proposal that suits the specifics of your wedding day.
  • Site Visits: Visiting the venue ahead of time can allow us to scout the best locations for photos and anticipate any lighting challenges. Most of the time, we do not need to do this. However, if you and your planner we will most definitely work this into our proposal.
  • Timeline Coordination: Working closely with you and your planner, we create a detailed timeline to ensure all key moments are captured without stress or rush. This is key and is our goal. We want your wedding day to be stress free.
photo of a bride and her mother on a wedding day

Capturing Candid Moments and Genuine Emotions

On your wedding day, a professional photographer excels at capturing candid moments and genuine emotions, preserving the spontaneous joy and love shared among you and your guests.

What This Involves:

  • Discreet Presence: By blending into the background, we capture natural, unposed moments that reflect the true essence of your day. While we do get close, we work in such a way that allow you to be in the moment.
  • Emotion-Focused Shots: From the tearful exchange of vows to the exuberant celebration on the dance floor, we are there with you to ensure these fleeting moments are documented forever.
a jewish wedding dance in a barn

Artistic and Editorial Photography

In addition to candid shots, we provide artistic and editorial-style photos that offer a touch of sophistication and creativity to your wedding collection. We want you to look your best, and depending on the couple, we work with you to create effortless and timeless portraits.

What This Involves:

  • Stylized Portraits: These are carefully composed and creatively lit to highlight the beauty and elegance of the couple and the venue.
  • Detail Shots: Photographs of the details from your bouquet and décor, to other elements that add character and tell your wedding story.
gay grooms embrace on their wedding day

Technical Expertise and Equipment

A professional wedding photographer brings technical expertise and high-quality equipment to ensure every photo is perfect, regardless of lighting conditions or weather.

What This Involves:

  • Advanced Cameras and Lenses: Using top-of-the-line equipment allows for sharp, vibrant images in any setting. We happen to use Sony cameras and Profoto lighting gear.
  • Lighting Mastery: Whether it’s natural light, flash, or continuous lighting, we adapt to every situation to capture the best possible images.

Post-Production and Editing

After the wedding, the work continues with post-production and editing to enhance your photos and create a cohesive, stunning wedding collect.

What This Involves:

  • Image Selection: Carefully selecting the best shots that tell the complete story of your day. Most couples will receive between 600-1200 images depending on the length of the day, size of the wedding and the wedding day events.
  • Professional Editing: Adjusting color balance, exposure, and retouching to ensure every image looks its best while maintaining a natural appearance.
  • Album Design: Creating a beautifully designed album that showcases your favorite moments and highlights from the day.

Providing Emotional Support and Guidance

On your wedding day, emotions run high, and having a calm, supportive professional by your side can make a significant difference.

What This Involves:

  • Reassurance and Confidence: Offering gentle guidance and reassurance to help you feel relaxed and confident in front of the camera.
  • Problem-Solving: Quickly addressing any issues that arise, whether it’s adjusting a boutonniere, fixing a veil, or helping coordinate with other vendors.

Conclusion

A wedding photographer’s role encompasses much more than just taking photos. From pre-wedding planning and candid captures to artistic photography and post-production, we are there to ensure every detail of your wedding day is beautifully documented. As your photographer, I’m committed to providing a seamless, enjoyable experience that results in stunning photos you will cherish forever. Contact me today to discuss how we can make your wedding photography vision a reality in the Hudson Valley.

By understanding the comprehensive role of a wedding photographer, you can appreciate the value of investing in a professional who will go above and beyond to capture the magic of your special day.

Wedding photography by Hudson River Photographer

When you think of a wedding photographer…

Hi there.  I'm Diane.

I've been photographing weddings for over 15 years in new york city & the hudson valley.  

I bring my background in design & filmmaking, to my love of still photography the day I document your wedding.  It is truly something i love. 


Modern documentary wedding photography for all couples in love.  Inclusive & judgement free.

—  HALEY & SPENCER | ANKONY CARRIAGE HOUSE

Thank you for being part of our rock star wedding team! All the photos are absolutely stunning.

—  elissa & jess | roundhouse beacon

As a same-sex couple, it was such a comfort to have a photographer with experience in queer weddings who made us feel special in all the right ways. We can’t recommend Diane enough!

—  ASHTON & TANNER | BASILICA HUDSON

We are so thankful for such an incredible experience. she is the best in the business! She loves her profession, is willing to listen, & above all, humble & affectionate. 

—  HEATHER & JACLYN | FULL MOON RESORT

Diane operates with such energy and ease. We feel so fortunate to have found you. Diane can find beauty anywhere. She was such a pleasure to work with and the photo results are incredible!

—  LAUREN & JEREMY | THE GARRISON

If a picture is worth a 1000 words, than we have 1 million wonderful words from our wedding. We had such a terrific experience working with Diane. 

—  BROOKE & JOSH | L'ESCALE DELAMAR GREENWICH

She was able to capture the love & energy we felt in every single picture. Diane’s kind & easy nature made photographing the day simple. Her work is incredible! Diane is the best & we highly recommend her.

—  SEAN & ERIC | HELSINKI HUDSON

As a gay male couple, we had some disappointing conversations, feeling like a portfolio novelty. When we found Diane, she made clear her only point of view was to capture the beauty & truth of our day. 

—  TAYLOR & TATE | ROUNDHOUSE BEACON

We’re grateful for your expertise & your calming presence! Thank you for making our pictures feel easy & stress-free. We’re grateful for your expertise & your calming presence! 

—  JESSE & WILL | DEER MOUNTAIN INN

We could not have been happier. Her work is beautiful but also authentic. She captured our day perfectly. She's a real pro, and she knows exactly what she's doing and how to do it well.

—  MARISA & DAVID | BARN AT LIBERTY FARMS

We are so thankful that we chose Diane as our wedding photographer! her beautiful photos exceeded our expectations. Diane captured the magic & love of our wedding perfectly. Highly recommend Diane!”

—  COURTNEY & CAIT | OUTLIER INN

Thank you so much for being a part of our big day! You were such a critical part in making our dream wedding a reality & we cannot thank you enough. We feel so lucky you shared your amazing talents with us. 

—  KATIE & LUCAS | GREYWACKE MEADOWS

A Photographer Who Got Us. She not only captured our energy & vibe, but most of all, I swear you can feel love when you look at our photos.

—  JAIMIE & MEGHAN | RED MAPLE VINEYARD

Whether you’re a gay, lesbian, straight, bisexual, or trans couple, you want her to capture your big day. Diane is a pro & total joy to work with. She was truly everything we were looking for—and she defied expectations.