March Wedding Photography Special

For the month of March, I’m offering a limited promotion on my Essentials Wedding Photography Package.

Regular Price: $1995

March Price: $1500

To receive the discounted rate, your proposal must be signed by March 31st.

The Essentials package includes 8 hours of continuous wedding day coverage and an online gallery with upwards of 700 carefully curated images. My approach focuses on documenting real moments as they unfold so you have photographs that reflect how the day actually felt.

I’m based in New Jersey and regularly photograph weddings throughout New York and the surrounding East Coast, though I’m always open to traveling wherever your celebration takes place.

If you’re planning a wedding and want to take advantage of the March pricing, use the inquiry form below to check availability and start the booking process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are you based?

I’m a wedding photographer based in New Jersey, and I regularly photograph weddings throughout New York and the surrounding East Coast.

Do you travel for weddings?

Yes. While many of the weddings I photograph take place in New Jersey and New York, I’m happy to travel wherever your wedding day takes place.

What is included in the Essentials Photography Package?

The package includes 8 hours of continuous wedding day coverage and an online gallery with upwards of 700 carefully curated images available for viewing, downloading, and sharing.

How do we secure our wedding date?

Once you’re ready to move forward, I’ll send an online proposal that includes the contract and invoice. Only $500 is required upfront to lock in your date, and the remaining balance can be paid through small payments leading up to the wedding.

How do we receive the March discount?

To receive the promotional rate of $1500, your proposal must be signed by March 31st.

3 Planning Tips to Keep in Mind When Planning a Fall Wedding

Picture this: The crisp autumn air fills the venue as golden leaves gently fall, creating a natural backdrop you didn’t even need to plan for. Your guests are sipping warm cider, wrapped in soft blankets provided to keep them cozy. As the sun sets earlier than you expected, casting a warm, golden glow over everything, you and your partner share a moment that feels straight out of a storybook.

This is the magic of a fall wedding—but behind every seamless detail is careful planning to make sure the day lives up to your dreams. If you're planning an autumn wedding, here are three important tips to keep in mind to ensure your big day is as beautiful as the season itself.

1. Plan Around the Weather (But Don’t Stress!)

One of the most charming aspects of fall is its unpredictability—one day can be sunny and perfect, while the next could bring a surprise chill or even a drizzle. Fall weddings require a little extra flexibility, but trust me, it’s worth it for the beautiful moments this season provides.

To avoid any last-minute stress, plan for all weather conditions. If you’re having an outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour, have a tent or backup indoor space just in case. Also, consider offering thoughtful touches like cozy blankets or outdoor heaters for your guests as the temperature cools in the evening. Not only will this keep everyone comfortable, but it will also add to the intimate, cozy feel that makes fall weddings so special.

Pro tip: Check your wedding date's sunset time. Fall days are shorter, and the earlier sunset means you’ll need to plan your ceremony and photography schedule accordingly to capture those dreamy golden-hour moments.

2. Embrace the Seasonal Decor

Fall comes with its own natural decor, making it easier to create a beautiful wedding with less effort. The rich colors and textures of the season—deep burgundy, mustard yellow, burnt orange, and forest green—can set the tone for your wedding without feeling overly themed.

Consider incorporating these colors into your florals, bridesmaid dresses, and even your table settings. Seasonal blooms like dahlias, mums, and sunflowers can give your arrangements that perfect autumn touch, and you can elevate the look with subtle accents like dried pampas grass or eucalyptus. You could also take advantage of the harvest season by decorating your tables with gourds, pumpkins, or rich wooden elements.

Want something more sophisticated? Mix in metallics like copper or gold, or add velvet accents to your seating or tablescapes. These elegant details complement the fall aesthetic while adding a luxe, polished feel.

3. Mind the Seasonal Menu

One of the best parts of a fall wedding is the opportunity to craft a menu that reflects the cozy, comforting flavors of the season. Think about adding warm, inviting options that will keep your guests satisfied and in the fall spirit.

Comfort foods like roasted root vegetables, butternut squash soup, or even a gourmet mac and cheese bar are sure to be crowd-pleasers. For dessert, why not offer fall-inspired sweets like mini apple pies, pumpkin spice cupcakes, or even a s’mores station for that nostalgic, fireside vibe?

Don’t forget the drinks! A signature fall cocktail, like spiced cider or a maple bourbon old-fashioned, can be a fun addition and bring your seasonal theme to life. Your guests will appreciate these thoughtful touches and remember your wedding as the perfect blend of taste and comfort.

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Why Fall Weddings Are So Special

Fall weddings are truly unique. The season brings its own charm, with changing leaves, earlier sunsets, and a sense of warmth and togetherness. By keeping the weather, decor, and menu in mind, you can create a wedding day that embraces everything beautiful about autumn.

Whether it’s the cozy atmosphere, the rich colors, or the cool breeze, fall weddings are a personal favorite of mine to photograph and film. There’s something about this season that brings out the best in love stories, and I’m here to capture every moment.

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Planning your fall wedding? I’d love to help bring your autumn wedding vision to life. Fill out the Contact Me form below, and let’s chat about how I can capture the magic of your day through beautiful photos and videos.

Contact Me

Why I Bring My Pentax 6x7 to Photograph Weddings: A Photographer’s Perspective

When it comes to wedding photography, choosing the right equipment is critical. I consistently rely on my Pentax 6x7 medium format camera, always paired with the 105mm f/2.4 lens and an ND filter, for capturing timeless moments. While digital photography reigns in convenience, shooting film on medium format brings unparalleled depth, richness, and emotion to a wedding day. Let me explain why this combination is my go-to for weddings.

The Beauty of Medium Format Film

One of the main reasons I choose my Pentax 6x7 is because of the distinctive look it offers. The medium format produces images that are softer, more organic, and carry a cinematic quality that digital can’t always replicate. It emphasizes textures, lighting, and colors in a way that feels more tactile and real. For daytime shoots, I rely on Kodak Portra 400 for its balanced, natural tones, perfect for outdoor ceremonies and engagement sessions. As the evening rolls in and light becomes dimmer, I switch to Kodak Portra 800, a film that handles lower light while still delivering that beautiful depth and detail.

Take a look at the recent engagement session I photographed in Tarrytown, NY—notice the way the colors pop with a natural vibrancy, from the subtle hues of the mural backdrop to the soft glow around the couple’s skin. Whether under bright daylight or the soft twilight of an evening, Portra film delivers a timeless and consistent quality.

The Importance of the 105mm f/2.4 Lens

Pairing my Pentax 6x7 with the 105mm f/2.4 lens is a choice rooted in versatility and creativity. This lens, known for its sharpness and beautiful depth of field, allows me to create images where the subject truly stands out. The creamy bokeh it produces, especially wide open at f/2.4, creates a natural separation between the couple and their background, giving each image a dreamy, romantic quality.

This lens is especially perfect for intimate moments like a couple’s embrace or close-up shots of rings and delicate details. In weddings, where emotions are raw and the moments are fleeting, the 105mm’s focal length allows me to stay at a comfortable distance while capturing all the emotion and intensity in a scene.

Why I Use an ND Filter

Using an ND filter (neutral density filter) is crucial when shooting with film, particularly when working with the wide aperture of the 105mm f/2.4 lens in bright conditions. Often, wedding ceremonies take place outdoors during the day, where the natural light can be overpowering. Without the ND filter, I’d need to stop down the aperture to balance the exposure, but that would compromise the beautiful shallow depth of field this lens offers.

The ND filter allows me to shoot wide open, even in full sunlight, maintaining the soft, blurred background that makes my subjects pop. It gives me control over the light, ensuring that I capture every moment exactly as I envision it, without losing the qualities that make medium format film so special.

The Intentionality of Every Shot

In a world where digital photography can result in hundreds of throwaway shots, shooting on medium format film is deliberate. Each frame counts. With just 10 exposures per roll of 120 film, I approach every shot with precision and care. It’s a philosophy that mirrors the significance of the day itself: every interaction, every smile, every exchange of vows deserves attention and focus.

This intentionality is something I believe my couples appreciate—there’s a certain trust that develops when they know that I am fully present with every shot I take. Film slows the process down, allowing for more thoughtfulness and less distraction.

Timeless, Lasting Quality

Film photography is timeless. With digital images, trends and editing styles can shift with the seasons, but the look of film remains classic. The shots I capture on my Pentax 6x7 feel enduring, making them perfect for a wedding, which is itself an enduring moment in a couple’s life. Decades from now, the couple will be able to look back at their photos with a sense of nostalgia, not for the trends of the moment, but for the genuine emotions of the day.

Just look at the images I took near the lighthouse. The richness of the tones, the soft gradient between light and shadow—these are characteristics that are hard to replicate digitally without a lot of post-production effort. Yet with film, they’re inherent.

The Element of Surprise

Another benefit is the element of surprise. Unlike digital photography, where you can immediately review the results, film forces you to wait for the development process. It adds an extra layer of excitement for both me and the couple. I’ve found that this anticipation brings the couple even closer to their images—they know that what they’ll receive will be something special and unique.

Merging Artistry with Technology

While I primarily shoot film during weddings, I also incorporate digital photography to ensure that I capture every angle and moment. This blending of traditional artistry with modern technology gives my couples the best of both worlds: they’ll have the candid convenience of digital, combined with the romantic timelessness of film. It’s a balance that speaks to today’s couples who value experiences and moments over volume and excess.

The engagement photos from this session—whether it’s the quiet moments shared by the water or the playful portrait of their dog wearing a “Humans Getting Married” bandana—demonstrate how film captures both the big moments and the small details with equal importance.

Why This Matters for My Clients

Weddings are a whirlwind of emotions, love, and celebration. My role is to capture that whirlwind in a way that speaks to the heart and soul of the day. My Pentax 6x7, paired with the 105mm f/2.4 lens and ND filter, helps me deliver on that promise. I believe the quality and artistry of film resonate deeply with couples who value the finer details, those who cherish the authenticity and depth of the experience over fast results.

For my clients it’s about more than just pictures. It’s about preserving the beauty of their wedding day in a way that feels personal, intimate, and everlasting.

As an experienced wedding photographer, I aim to create a blend of artistry and storytelling through my lens, capturing those once-in-a-lifetime moments with a medium that’s as meaningful as the day itself. The Pentax 6x7 enables me to do just that, producing images that will be cherished for a lifetime.

By blending film and digital photography, I offer a comprehensive package that resonates with those who appreciate both creativity and craft, ensuring that their wedding is remembered in the most authentic, beautiful way possible.

This approach has allowed me to continuously capture the emotions, joy, and love in a way that feels classic, yet modern. I look forward to bringing this artistry to many more weddings, including yours.

Kathryn’s East Hampton Bachelorette Party Highlight Reel: Stress-Free Tips for Planning Your Own Bachelorette Party

Kathryn, glowing with excitement as she celebrates her bachelorette party in East Hampton, surrounded by friends and love.

Planning a bachelorette party should be fun and exciting, not stressful. Kathryn’s bachelorette party in East Hampton was the perfect example of a day filled with love, laughter, and beautiful moments shared among friends. I had the honor of capturing it all on film, and now I’m thrilled to share the highlight reel with you. Watch it below to see how the day unfolded!

As you prepare for your own bachelorette party, whether you’re hosting it or planning it for a close friend, keep in mind that simplicity and careful planning can go a long way toward reducing stress. Below are three essential tips to help you organize a memorable bachelorette party with ease.

1. Keep It Simple, Yet Personal
One of the keys to a successful bachelorette party is balancing personal touches with simplicity. Instead of overwhelming yourself with a packed itinerary, focus on a few meaningful activities that reflect the bride’s personality. If she loves the outdoors, consider a day at the beach or a scenic hike. For those who enjoy a more relaxing experience, a spa day or a wine tasting can be ideal. The goal is to create an atmosphere where the bride can relax and enjoy quality time with her closest friends.

2. Delegate Responsibilities
When planning a bachelorette party, it’s important not to take on everything yourself. Reach out to the bridal party or close friends to help with certain tasks—whether it’s coordinating transportation, booking reservations, or even choosing party favors. Delegating helps reduce the workload and ensures that no details are overlooked, allowing you to focus on making the day special for the bride. It also gives everyone a sense of involvement, which adds to the overall experience.

3. Focus on Being Present
In the rush of planning, it’s easy to get caught up in the logistics and forget to simply enjoy the day. A bachelorette party is about celebrating the bride and her upcoming wedding. Take a moment to relax, be present, and savor the memories being made. When the focus is on the people and not the perfection of the details, the experience becomes much more meaningful for everyone involved.

View Kathryn’s Photo Gallery
Be sure to check out the full photo gallery from Kathryn’s bachelorette party, capturing all the fun and intimate moments of the day. From candid shots to beautifully posed portraits, these images highlight the joy and celebration shared among close friends. Click here to view the gallery and get inspired for your own bachelorette celebration!

Planning a Bachelorette Party Soon?
Whether you’re organizing a laid-back gathering or a more elaborate celebration, remember that the most important aspect is celebrating the bride and creating memories. I hope these tips help make your bachelorette party planning process easier and more enjoyable.

For more wedding and bachelorette party inspiration, follow me on social media and stay updated on my latest photography and videography projects:

FOLLOW ME:
Instagram: @rich_photo_video
Twitter: @rich_photo_video
Facebook: @richardjnievesphotography
Website: www.richardjnphoto.com

Capturing Picture-Perfect Grooms: Preparing for Unforgettable Wedding Shots!

As a wedding photographer, my goal is to ensure that every moment of your special day is beautifully documented. Today, I want to share some tips on how grooms can be ready for those stunning pre-ceremony photographs even before I arrive. Let's dive in:

1. Organize Your Details: Just like Kevin's heartfelt vow book and exquisite Tissot watch, gather your special items in advance. Lay out your cufflinks, tie, shoes, and any other meaningful accessories. This allows us to capture intricate shots that tell a unique story.

2. Write in Your Vow Book: A personal touch like Kevin's handwritten vows adds an emotional layer to your story. Take a moment to jot down your feelings, promises, or thoughts in your vow book. We'll create a timeless image that reflects the depth of your commitment.

3. Best Man Bonding: Enlist your best man or groomsmen to help you get dressed. Not only does this lead to some candid, fun moments, but it also captures the camaraderie that's an integral part of your wedding day.

4. Preparation Space: Choose a well-lit, clutter-free space for getting ready. Natural light makes for stunning photographs, so a room with large windows is ideal. Keep the area tidy to create a backdrop that complements your elegance.

5. Time Management: Plan ahead and give yourself ample time to get ready. A relaxed pace allows us to capture candid interactions and genuine emotions, resulting in captivating images.

6. Grooming & Styling: Prioritize grooming to look your absolute best. Whether it's a fresh shave or a perfectly styled haircut, attention to detail enhances your overall look and ensures picture-perfect shots.

7. Personal Moments: Take a moment to reflect before the whirlwind of the day begins. A candid shot of you contemplating or practicing your vows adds a touch of authenticity to your wedding album.

8. Location Scouting: If you have a specific location in mind for portraits, let me know in advance. We can discuss the best time for lighting and plan accordingly to capture the magic of your chosen setting.

9. Embrace the Surroundings: Much like Kevin's beach portrait, think about incorporating the surroundings into your photos. Whether it's a stunning garden, a cozy corner, or a meaningful spot, let's use the environment to enhance your visual story.

10. Relax and Enjoy: Most importantly, remember that these moments are about you and your love story. Embrace the joy, excitement, and anticipation of the day. When you're relaxed and having fun, it shines through in every photograph.

So, dear grooms-to-be, follow these tips to ensure you're prepped and ready for those unforgettable pre-ceremony snapshots. Your wedding day is a chapter in your love story, and together, we'll create images that you'll cherish forever.

ISO: In Search Of | Episode 2: Wedding Photographer Taliya Michelle!

ISO: In Search Of | Episode 2: Wedding Photographer Taliya Michelle

Good afternoon, everyone!

The second episode of ISO: In Search of features the fantastic wedding photographer Taliya Michelle!

We’ve previously worked together and I couldn’t be more happy to share her wonderful personality and energy with you all.

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ISO: In Search Of is a YouTube series dedicated to showcasing fellow wedding venders so couples can get a greater sense of who they may be hiring for their wedding.

It also gives people looking to get into the wedding industry a sense of how and why we do what do for couples.