Buttons or Zipper? Choosing the Right Back for Your Wedding Dress

A quiet moment of joy—every detail coming together before the big reveal.

When it comes to picking the perfect wedding dress, most brides focus on the silhouette, fabric, and neckline. But there’s one detail that doesn’t always get the spotlight until it matters most: how the dress actually closes. Whether you choose delicate buttons or the ease of a zipper, that small detail can make a big difference on your wedding day.

A row of delicate buttons adds timeless charm and detail to the gown.

The photos above of one of my past brides getting ready show just how much care goes into those final moments—every button fastened, every detail perfected. That simple process of getting into the dress can be either smooth and stress-free or unexpectedly tricky, depending on what you’ve chosen.

Why Choose Buttons or a Zipper?

Here are three reasons why a bride might choose one over the other:

1. Aesthetic Appeal
Buttons add a timeless, romantic touch. They often give the illusion of being hand-sewn down the back, which photographs beautifully. Zippers, on the other hand, keep the look sleek and simple while staying hidden behind fabric.

2. Functionality
A zipper is quick and efficient, perfect if you want to minimize time spent getting dressed. Buttons, while more intricate, can feel more secure once they’re fastened and can hold the structure of a gown firmly in place.

3. Tradition vs. Convenience
For many, buttons feel classic and bridal, a nod to tradition. A zipper is modern, practical, and less of a hassle. The choice often comes down to whether you want that timeless bridal feel or a more streamlined experience.

Making the Buttoning Process Easier

Final touches—buttons secured with love and care before the ceremony.

If you do choose buttons, don’t worry—it doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are three ways to make the process easier:

1. Use a Crochet Hook (or Similar Tool)
A small crochet hook slips the loops over buttons quickly and saves fingers from cramping. I’ve even used a short hex tool from my keychain in a pinch—it works just as well!

2. Start from the Top
Fasten the top button first to anchor the dress in place. From there, work downward. This keeps the fabric from shifting and makes it easier to stay aligned.

3. Have Patience (and a Steady Hand)
Don’t rush. Give yourself extra time in the schedule for buttoning. Having a calm, steady hand—whether it’s your mom, maid of honor, or a bridesmaid—makes all the difference.

Whether you go with the classic row of buttons or the ease of a hidden zipper, it’s all about what feels right for you. Remember, this is one of the last steps before you step into the day you’ve been dreaming of. The details matter—but so does the experience of getting there.

If you’re in the middle of wedding planning and would like to chat about photography and videography for your day, fill out the contact form below—I’d love to connect with you.

5 Tips for Planning an Unplugged Wedding Ceremony

Phones are everywhere.
They’re in our pockets, at our fingertips, and—if we’re not careful—right in the middle of a couple’s wedding aisle.

An unplugged ceremony changes that. It’s your choice to ask guests to put away phones and cameras so the moment can be experienced without distractions. It keeps everyone present and gives your photographer and videographer the space they need to do their jobs without dodging arms holding phones.

Here’s how to make it happen—and keep it that way.

1. Announce It Before the Wedding

Set expectations early. Include a short note on your invitations, wedding website, or in an email to guests. Something simple works best: “We’re having an unplugged ceremony. Please keep phones away until after we say ‘I do.’”

2. Have Your Officiant Remind Everyone

Even with notice, guests may forget. Ask your officiant to make a brief announcement before the ceremony begins. Hearing it right before the processional helps it stick.

3. Use Signage at the Entrance

Place a sign where guests enter the ceremony space. It’s a friendly, visual reminder without singling anyone out.

4. Give the Why

People respond better when they understand the reason. You don’t need a long explanation—just let them know you’ve hired professionals to capture the day, and you’d love for everyone to be fully present in the moment.

5. Build in a “Phone Moment”

A great way to keep phones tucked away later is to give guests a brief window for photos right after the processional, before your vows begin. Your officiant can say, “The couple invites you to take 30 seconds for a quick photo, then please put your phones away for the rest of the ceremony.” Guests get their keepsake shot, and you get a distraction-free ceremony.

An unplugged ceremony isn’t about taking something away—it’s about giving your guests the chance to be part of the moment while ensuring your photographer and videographer can capture it without obstruction.

If you’re ready to plan your unplugged ceremony and have it beautifully documented, fill out the contact form below so we can talk about your wedding day.

Sharonda & Natural’s Intimate Beach Wedding at Arverne East Nature Preserve

A quiet moment before the celebration—Sharonda and Natural taking it all in, wrapped in sunlight, love, and the promise of forever.

Sharonda and Natural were married at Arverne East Nature Preserve in Far Rockaway, NY, surrounded by their closest family and friends. With the sound of waves in the background and sunlight pouring across the sand, their ceremony was heartfelt, joyful, and deeply intentional.

A view from above—Sharonda and Natural’s loved ones gathered on the deck, celebrating together under blue skies at Arverne East Nature Preserve.

From the emotional moment Natural stood with his father at the altar to the celebratory jump over the broom, every part of the day was filled with meaning. The golden tones of the florals, the laid-back beach attire, and the skyline views created the perfect setting for timeless photos and film.

Natural sharing a moment with his father at the altar—smiles, strength, and the quiet joy of what’s to come.

I had the honor of providing both photography and videography for their wedding through my company, Richard J Nieves Photography, with Kate Kerr as the lead photographer on my team. We captured everything from candid group shots to quiet, intimate moments between the couple—along with a full-length ceremony film and a highlight film that reflects the rhythm and emotion of the day.

View their gallery here.

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Vendor Team
Planning – Intimate Occasions by Ikiya
Photography & Videography – Richard J Nieves Photography
Lead Photographer – Kate Kerr
DJ – Smashed DJs
Violinist – Michi Fuji
Waitstaff – Angel Waitress Service

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P.S. I use Aftershoot for all my culling and editing—it’s streamlined my entire workflow and helped me stay consistent across every wedding and session. If you’re a photographer looking to save time without sacrificing quality, I highly recommend giving it a try.
You can get 10% off with my link: aftershoot.com/explore/?ref=richard99
Just use the code RichardNieves10 at checkout.

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If you're planning your own wedding and need photo, video, or both—I’d love to hear what you're dreaming up. Fill out the form below to get started.

Scott & Sofia’s Engagement Session at Winnekenni Castle

Winnekenni Park in Haverhill, Massachusetts is one of those hidden gems perfect for engagement photos—and Scott and Sofia’s session here was the perfect example of why. With the historic Winnekenni Castle as a backdrop and lush green trails leading down to the water, their shoot was full of timeless charm and playful romance.

We began the afternoon capturing their first look in traditional Filipino attire—Scott in a classic barong tagalog and Sofia in a stunning embroidered bolero. The textures of the castle’s stone exterior complemented their outfits beautifully, creating portraits that felt regal, intimate, and deeply personal.

As the session continued, they changed into more casual, summery outfits, exploring the lakeside and wooded paths of Winnekenni Park. From twirling on the balcony to sharing quiet moments by the dock, their natural chemistry made it easy to document the genuine joy they share.

Their full gallery is now available to view here:
👉 View Scott & Sofia’s Engagement Gallery

I’ve divided the gallery into two sections:

• Traditional Elegance – Honoring culture, style, and legacy

• Playful Romance – Carefree connection and lakeside love

If you’re recently engaged and thinking about an engagement session at Winnekenni Castle or Winnekenni Park, I’d love to hear more about your plans. This location offers both historic character and natural beauty—ideal for couples looking to blend elegance with genuine, candid moments.

You can fill out the contact form at the bottom of the gallery page to get started. I’ll be in touch personally to learn more about how I can best serve you.

5 Tips for a Relaxed, Natural Beach Engagement Session

Featuring Sarah & Greg at Bay Head Beach, NJ

When Sarah and Greg asked me to capture their engagement session at Bay Head Beach, I knew we’d have the perfect backdrop—open skies, gentle waves, and that soft coastal breeze that brings everything to life. Beach sessions are a favorite of mine for a reason—they invite movement, connection, and that in-between magic that happens when you’re just present with each other.

But beach engagement photos also come with their own set of challenges. If you're planning an engagement session along the Jersey Shore—whether it's Bay Head, Point Pleasant, Spring Lake, or any nearby coastal town—here are 5 tips to help you get the most out of your time in front of the camera.

1. Timing is Everything (But So Is Good Light Control)

For Sarah and Greg’s session, we started around 4:45 PM—plenty of sun left and not quite into golden hour. That meant we were working in strong, direct light for most of the shoot. To keep skin tones looking clean and balanced, I brought along a monolight paired with a softbox. It gave me just the right amount of fill to soften shadows while still letting the beach atmosphere come through.

If you’re not shooting at golden hour, that extra lighting support makes a big difference. It lets you shoot earlier and still come away with images that feel soft and natural.

2. Go Barefoot (or Be Practical)

Sand and shoes rarely get along. Consider sandals you can kick off easily, or just embrace the barefoot look—it photographs beautifully and adds a relaxed feel right away. Sarah ditched her shoes early on, and it helped everything feel more natural—less stiff, more grounded, and way easier to move around.

3. Embrace the Wind

Wind is part of the beach story. Let your hair move. Let your clothes catch the breeze. Some of the best frames come from that motion. Rather than fight it, we leaned into it—allowing those moments of movement to help tell the story.

4. Bring One “Statement” Element

Whether it’s a bottle of champagne, a cozy blanket, or a favorite outfit, one personal detail can add meaning and give us something fun to work with. Sarah and Greg brought champagne to pop on the beach—it broke the ice, brought out some big laughs, and gave me the chance to capture them mid-celebration.

5. Don’t Overthink the Poses

You don’t need to show up ready to perform. I’ll offer just enough guidance to keep things moving, but the best photos usually happen when you're focused on each other, not on the camera. That’s how we got some of the most honest shots during Sarah and Greg’s session—the quiet, in-between moments that say the most.

Beach sessions are about light, space, and connection. They don’t need to be perfect—they just need to feel real. Whether you’re camera-shy or just want something that feels true to your relationship, I’m here to help bring that to life.

👉 Take a look at Sarah & Greg’s highlight gallery here: https://richardjnievesphotography.pic-time.com/-sarahpaonessagregjohnson
📍Learn more about Bay Head Beach: https://www.bayheadnj.org/community-spotlight/bulletins/beach-information

Thinking about a beach session for your own engagement photos—or still looking for the right photographer? I'd love to hear more about your plans and how I can help tell your story.

Fill out the contact form below, and let’s start planning something beautiful.

3 Tips for an Amazing Engagement Session at Winnekenni Park

Scott and Sofia walking hand-in-hand in front of the historic stone walls of Winnekenni Castle—one of those moments that perfectly captures the joy of this season and the beauty of exploring somewhere new together.

I had the absolute pleasure of traveling over four hours to meet Scott and Sofia in Massachusetts for their engagement session at Winnekenni Park—and let me tell you, the drive was more than worth it. This hidden gem of a location offered everything we needed: scenic views, peaceful trails, and just enough structure to feel guided without ever feeling staged.

If you're considering Winnekenni Park (or any park, really) for your own engagement photos, here are three tips to help make the experience even more special:

Tucked away in the stillness of Winnekenni Park, Scott and Sofia shared a quiet moment by the water—just the two of them, wrapped in nature and the comfort of each other’s presence.

1. Embrace the Space—But Time It Right
Winnekenni offers sweeping views, forested paths, and an old stone castle that adds a touch of magic to the backdrop. But like any public park, the time of day makes a huge difference. We planned Scott and Sofia’s session around golden hour, which gave us soft light and fewer crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons are your best bet for getting that beautiful, intimate atmosphere without distractions.

Wandering through the woods at Winnekenni Park, shoes in hand and smiles all around—Scott and Sofia turned a simple trail into a scene straight out of a love story.

2. Wear Comfortable (But Stylish) Shoes
You’ll want to explore the grounds, and some of the best spots require a bit of walking over gravel or grass. Scott and Sofia kept it classy but practical, which gave them the freedom to move around and focus on each other instead of worrying about sore feet. If you have a second outfit with fancier shoes, bring it along—just change when you’re closer to the location you want to photograph.

Wrapped in each other’s arms and surrounded by nature, Scott and Sofia shared a laugh that echoed across the lake—a reminder that the best photos come from simply being yourselves.

3. Let the Natural Moments Lead
One of the best things about being in a place like Winnekenni Park is how easy it is to settle into the moment. You’re not surrounded by city noise or distractions. I encouraged Scott and Sofia to take their time, enjoy the space, and just be themselves. The best photos came from their genuine connection—laughing, walking, pausing to take it all in.

A quiet moment, a steady shoulder, and the ring that marks the beginning of forever. Details like this tell the story just as powerfully as the big moments.

Engagement sessions aren’t just about great photos—they’re about honoring this season in your life and giving yourselves room to be fully present with one another. If you're up for a little travel and a lot of beauty, Winnekenni Park is absolutely worth exploring.

Like what you see? If my work resonates with you and you'd like to plan an engagement session of your own, fill out my contact form to get the conversation started. I'd love to hear more about your story and help you find the perfect location for your session.

A May the 4th Wedding at Water Works, Philadelphia: Nikki & Adam

A little rain, a lot of love. Nikki and Adam shared this quiet moment under an umbrella at Water Works in Philly—proof that even cloudy skies can’t dim a day this full of joy.

A May the 4th Wedding at Water Works, Philadelphia: Nikki & Adam

Nikki and Adam's wedding at Water Works by Cescaphe was everything you'd want from a Philadelphia celebration: timeless architecture, sweeping river views, and a personal touch that made the day truly unforgettable. Held on May 4th, their wedding included subtle nods to Star Wars, making their love story just a little extra cosmic.

Surrounded by love and the loudest cheer squad—Nikki and Adam’s wedding party brought the energy and the heart to Water Works. A joyful, unforgettable moment under the blooming trees of Philadelphia.

They brought their friends and family together under the grand tent with chandeliers, set against one of Philly's most iconic backdrops—the Schuylkill River and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The whole day felt elegant but relaxed, with bursts of personality everywhere you turned. Nikki's dress was a showstopper, and Adam’s reaction during their first look said it all.

A stunning view of Water Works by Cescaphe, nestled along the Schuylkill River with the Philadelphia Museum of Art standing tall in the background—an iconic setting for an unforgettable wedding day.

As a wedding photographer and videographer, I’ve captured weddings across the East Coast, but there’s something about Water Works that stands out every time. It’s the way the light hits during golden hour, the drama of the architecture, and the way the space flows seamlessly from ceremony to reception.

Below are three key tips I’ve learned from photographing at Water Works that I think every couple—and every photographer—should know:

1. Scout for Natural Light Opportunities in the Late Afternoon

A quiet embrace, a deep breath, and a moment to simply feel it all—this is what love looks like on your wedding day.

Water Works offers a blend of open-air space and covered tented areas, and it sits right along the water. Around golden hour, the natural light reflecting off the Schuylkill can elevate portraits with soft, flattering tones. Make sure your portrait session is timed to take full advantage of that 5:30–7:00 PM window, depending on the season.

As day turned to night, Nikki and Adam shared a quiet moment framed by the Water Works skyline and a fiery May 4th sunset—proof that some love stories are written in the stars.

2. The Museum Steps and River Trail Are Worth the Short Walk

If time allows, take a short walk toward the Philadelphia Museum of Art or along the river trail. These spots offer incredible context and scale—think skyline views, stone steps, and wide scenic shots that give your wedding gallery a strong sense of place. Nikki and Adam were all in for the adventure, and it paid off in their final gallery.

Nikki and Adam took a quiet walk into their beautifully styled reception at Water Works by Cescaphe—a moment to soak it all in before the celebration kicked into full swing.

3. Keep an Eye on the Tent Lighting for Reception Shots

The tented reception space at Water Works is stunning with its draped fabric and chandeliers, but the ambient light shifts quickly once the sun goes down. I always prepare a lighting setup that works seamlessly with the tent’s aesthetic—balancing flash with ambient tones to preserve the mood while keeping the images crisp and clean.

With chandeliers glowing and celebration in full swing, Nikki and Adam made their grand entrance into the tented reception at Water Works—hand in hand, hearts full, and ready to dance the night away.

Nikki and Adam’s wedding was a celebration of love, laughter, and shared passions—from Star Wars to heartfelt toasts and a dance floor that stayed packed all night. If you're thinking about getting married at Water Works by Cescaphe, I can say from experience—it’s a dream venue for timeless imagery and a seamless flow from start to finish.

Ready to have your story documented at this incredible location? Fill out the contact form below—I’d love to hear what you're dreaming up for your day.

A Love-Filled Celebration: J'nae & Nicholas at 501 Union

Some weddings just radiate warmth from the very first moment, and J'nae and Nicholas' wedding at 501 Union in Brooklyn was exactly that. It was a day overflowing with love, deep emotion, and the kind of support that makes weddings so much more than just a celebration—it makes them a testament to the strength of a couple’s journey together.

Getting Ready: The Energy of Sisterhood

The morning started with J'nae surrounded by her bridesmaids and her mother, each of them bringing a unique energy to the room. There was laughter, a few happy tears, and an undeniable sense of unity. You could tell these were the people who had been with her through it all, making sure her wedding day was exactly as she envisioned. Every detail, from the final touches on her dress to the embrace from her mother, set the stage for an unforgettable ceremony.

The Ceremony: A Moment of Pure Emotion

While we didn’t get to capture much of Nicholas' prep due to timing, the emotion he poured into the ceremony made up for it tenfold. The second he saw J’nae walking down the aisle, every wall came down. The love, the admiration, and the weight of that moment hit him all at once, and it was powerful. Weddings have a way of bringing out raw, unfiltered emotions, and Nicholas’ tears were a reminder of just how meaningful this day was for both of them.

Under soft lights and surrounded by lush greenery, J'nae and Nicholas exchanged vows, sealing their commitment in a moment that felt as intimate as it was grand. 501 Union provided the perfect blend of modern elegance and warmth, allowing their love story to take center stage.

The Celebration: Love, Laughter & A Packed Dance Floor

Once the formalities were over, the celebration truly began. From heartfelt toasts to high-energy moves on the dance floor, J'nae and Nicholas made sure their night was one to remember. Their first dance was filled with pure joy, and as the night went on, their guests matched that energy, making for a reception full of life and laughter. Every corner of the venue felt like it was pulsing with love, proving just how much these two mean to the people around them.

Gratitude & Looking Forward

Being a part of J'nae and Nicholas’ wedding day was an honor. Every wedding has its own story, and theirs was one of deep love, connection, and the kind of joy that lingers long after the last song plays. I’m beyond grateful to have been there to capture it all.

If you're planning your own wedding and want a photographer who will be there to document not just the moments but the emotions that come with them, fill out the contact form below. I’d love to hear more about your vision and help bring it to life.

3 Key Tips for Engagement and Wedding Photography at Harkness Memorial State Park

Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford, CT is a dream location for couples looking for a stunning mix of elegant architecture, open fields, and oceanside views. Whether you’re planning engagement photos or a wedding shoot, this park delivers a natural charm that’s hard to beat. I recently had the opportunity to photograph Erin and Chevar’s engagement session here, and I walked away not only with some beautiful moments but also with a few practical takeaways for making the most out of this scenic gem. If you’re planning a shoot or wedding here, keep reading—these tips are for you.

1. Time Your Session Around the Light

Golden hour hits differently at Harkness. The park sits right along Long Island Sound, and the sunlight as it moves lower in the sky brings warmth to both the gardens and the ocean backdrop. If you're planning an engagement shoot, I highly recommend starting about two hours before sunset.

That said, our session with Erin and Chevar actually started at 10am—a time many photographers might avoid due to the direct sun. But instead of fighting it, we leaned into it. We embraced the bold shadows, found shade when it mattered, and let the light create a sense of vibrancy and clarity that’s hard to replicate. A standout series was captured in the daffodil field—sunlight pouring in, creating contrast that made Erin's dress pop against the yellow and white blooms. Down by the beach, we highlighted not just the couple but also personal touches—like Chevar’s bright red bag or the golf balls Erin hand-lettered with their wedding date. Those thoughtful details popped under that strong sun and added personality to the shots.

2. Use the Architecture and Landscape Together

One of the things I love most about Harkness is how it allows for so many visual layers. You’ve got the stone mansion with its grand arches, the formal gardens bursting with seasonal color, and then wide open green space rolling into the shore. It gives you a range of moods without ever needing to leave the property.

A favorite moment from Erin and Chevar’s shoot was when we framed them under one of the iron archways near the gardens, then let them walk it out toward the tower. It gave their photos this cinematic progression, while also showcasing the unique structure of the park itself.

3. Keep Things Moving

This location shines when your couple feels free to move. Instead of just having Erin and Chevar pose, we let them stroll, dance, and interact naturally. That energy translated into a gallery full of connection and spontaneity. With so much space and variety at Harkness, you’re never locked into one setting.

We played with the idea of movement in the fields, took a quiet moment on a garden bench, embraced laughter under the shade of towering trees, and explored the symmetry of the mansion. Every shift in setting gave the photos a fresh layer of personality.

Whether you’re planning engagement photos at Harkness Memorial State Park or looking for a wedding photographer familiar with the space, this park offers something for every couple. Check out the official Harkness Memorial State Park website for more info on the venue.

And if you're still looking for a photographer who knows the flow of the space and can guide you through every moment, I'd love to chat. Just fill out the contact form below to get started.

Engagement Highlights with Christian and Deanna at Rutgers Gardens

I had the chance to film Christian and Deanna’s engagement session at Rutgers Gardens in New Jersey, and from the start, everything just felt right. These two were easygoing, full of love for each other, and open to ideas—which is everything I hope for in a session.

The only real challenge? Spring hadn’t fully kicked in yet. Around mid-April, the trees are just starting to wake up and bloom, so we had to get creative—searching out little patches that were already showing color while avoiding areas that still looked like winter. It took some walking and scouting the day before, which is when I picked up an unwanted guest: a tick. I dealt with it, but it’s a good reminder that nature doesn't always care if you have a shoot the next day.

Still, the session was worth every step (and every itch). The light was soft, the weather was comfortable, and the energy between Christian and Deanna made for such an enjoyable experience. I also got to team up with Nichole, one of my go-to photographers, for the first time in a while. She handled digital while I focused on video and behind-the-scenes film. It's always a good rhythm when we work together—no stress, just flow.

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Tips for Planning an Engagement Session at Rutgers Gardens

Whether you're a photographer or a couple prepping for your session, here are three tips for getting the most out of Rutgers Gardens:

1. Secure a Photography Permit

Rutgers Gardens does require a permit for professional sessions, and you’ll need to schedule that in advance through their website. They limit the number of sessions at one time, so don’t assume you can just show up and shoot. Plan ahead and secure your slot.

2. Scout the Location Ahead of Time

This place is big, and not every area is equally photogenic all year round. Around early spring, some trees and flower beds may still look bare, while others are just starting to pop. Walk the grounds a day or two ahead—find the pockets where the light hits just right or where color is starting to show. Bonus: bring bug spray.

3. Time It Around Golden Hour

There’s a lot of tree coverage, which means the light changes fast. Shooting closer to golden hour can soften any harsh shadows and give the greenery and florals a natural glow—even if the blooms are still a little shy.

Sessions like this remind me how important it is to blend preparation with flexibility. You never know what nature is going to give you, but if you stay open and work with the couple’s energy, you’ll always walk away with something beautiful.

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If you’re planning your own engagement session or wedding in New Jersey and are looking for photo or video coverage that feels relaxed, creative, and real—fill out the contact form below and let’s talk about how I can help document your story.