I love capturing nature at events. And, while this spring has been off to a chilly start, soon flowers will be in full bloom... the perfect setting for a wedding. And for spring, it's all about romantic pastels and fragrant flowers. The bouquets are especially stunning, providing a gorgeous reflection of the season's natural beauty.
If you've been to a Bar/Bat Mitzvah party recently, you might think you've stepped into a nightclub. Nonstop dancing, the latest hip-hop and pop tracks, fashion statements everywhere, and a custom logo to top it off. Welcome to this generation's mitzvah scene... they're having a blast!
Venues captured here: Orange Lawn Tennis Club, Chatham Fish & Game & Slate NYC
As we enter into February, I looked back at my family photographs from 2017 and compiled a slideshow of my favorites. I love capturing the innocent, whimsical, and carefree nature of childhood. Thank you to all of my clients for helping me create beautiful, authentic images of your families!
xo Kristine
I had the honor of shooting this classic, picturesque wedding in the heart of New York City at Bryant Park Grill. While November brought some bitter cold for the day, we were able to get outside and be part of the vibrancy that fills the park. Congrats to the lovely couple!
Picking a season is a fun first step for the newly-engaged. Fall leaves, spring flowers, summer warmth, and brisk winter air help to inspire your wedding style. I always get outside for a few shots... even with some raindrops, every season is beautiful. Here are some select outdoor photos of weddings throughout the year.
Some of the venues featured include: Wave Hill in Riverdale, NY, Red Maple Vineyard in West Park, NY, The Crane Estate in Ipswich, MA, Roundhouse in Beacon, NY, Bryant Park Grill in New York City, The Westchester Country Club in Rye, NY.
Ah, weddings. We often talk about the fabulous venues, gorgeous dresses, beautiful flowers... the details. But in addition to that, it's the subtle moments, connections and laughter that truly warm up the photos. I had the joy of capturing it all at this New York City wedding.
There's nothing like the first few weeks. It's a complete joy for me to capture the expressions, interactions, and pure love that the littlest ones bring to a family. My favorite prop: the sibling. Enjoy!
School is back in session, some cooler days are here, and I've seen quite a few posts about pumpkin spice. It's nearly fall and a beautiful time for family portraits. Any location works in the fall...backyards, a nature trail, urban back drops. They all bring out the hues and gorgeous light of the season. Here are a few photos from 2016 to inspire.
In celebration of Valentine's Day, I thought I'd post some of my most romantic shots at weddings. My favorite moments are those that others don't see. The secret kiss over dinner, the embrace after the "first look", the look of a groom's face when he sees his bride walk down the aisle. The hidden moments are ones that aren't cliche or staged, but rather an authentic connection between two people. Happy Valentine's Day!
Summer is coming to a close and I'm looking forward to taking some beautiful family photos this fall. If you haven't booked your fall family portrait session yet, please contact me today. Dates are quickly filling up!
This Spring I had the pleasure of photographing Becky's bat mitzvah at Orange Lawn Tennis Club. Becky's grandparents are members of my synagogue so it was great seeing familiar faces and getting to know their amazing granddaughter. What a lovely and fun celebration! Mazel Tov, Becky!
Tonight's fireworks in Maplewood were spectacular. Here are a couple pictures I took. I wasn't able to get that close but I think the trees frame the fireworks nicely. I hope everyone had a great holiday. More blog posts to come! xo Kristine
Red Maple Vineyard was a stunning backdrop for Carlee and Matt's late summer wedding. I had the privilege of photographing Carlee's brother's wedding several years back in NYC so I was happy to see her family again for another celebration. The natural beauty of this Hudson Valley venue was coupled with personalized details and a few references to their shared alma mater, Colgate University. I had a wonderful time photographing their wedding and I hope to return to Red Maple again. Congrats to Carlee and Matt!
Here are a few pictures from my archive that feature the special color of the day: green, of course!
I've had a busy week organizing and editing my photographs as I prepare to add a new section to my website: bar/bat mitzvah photography! As with my weddings and family portrait work, I will continue to strive for the candid, fun, and real moments as I photograph. Stay tuned. More to come!
I've been photographing weddings in the New York City area for over 10 years and I can proudly say that I've worked at some of the most interesting venues in town. Here is a list of 10 of my favorites venues for weddings in New York City for photography (in no particular order):
1) The Metropolitan Club off of 5th Avenue is old New York at its finest. The ornate detail in the ceremony and reception rooms are spectacular and make such an impact in photos. Look at those ceilings!
2) Continuing with the Old New York theme, the New York Yacht Club in midtown boasts one of the largest collections of model sail boats in the country. It's surprising to find such a gem like this right in the middle of Manhattan. The ceiling in the main dining room is made of Tiffany glass. So beautiful!
3) Old Jewish New York can be found at the amazing Angel Orensanz Foundation on the Lower East Side. A former synagogue turned art and event space, the building has amazing character and ambiance.
4) Sometimes is all about the view. The Mandarin Oriental Hotel's event space looks right over Columbus Circle and Central Park. You really can't get a more spectacular view of Manhattan than this.
5) Most views require you to look out a window, but not at 620 Loft and Gardens. Here you can have your ceremony or cocktail hour overlooking St. Patrick's Cathedral and Rockefeller Center. The beautifully manicured garden is a nice contrast to the sharp lines of the city scape.
6) The penthouse terrace on the top floor of the Gramercy Park Hotel can't be beat for its warm, romantic ambiance. The string lights that line the ceiling are great for photos.
7) Over in Brooklyn, I've had wonderful wedding shoots at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. It's lovely to be in a huge city but have access to this lush, sprawling botanic garden. Cocktail hour by the lily pond is breathtaking.
8) Another garden wedding can be had at Wavehill in the Bronx. Receptions happen in a tudor-style historic house on the grounds and ceremony and portraits can be taken anywhere in the gardens. A view of the Hudson River is a nice bonus for this beautiful spot. I love photographing here!
9) I photographed here several years ago but it was definitely one to remember. The Chinese Scholar Garden in Snug Harbor (Staten Island) is as far removed from the intensity of New York City as you can get. The pavilion, paths, rocks and waterfalls are incredible for wedding photography.
10) And, finally, sometimes a warehouse full of vintage furniture and decorations is all you need for some creative wedding photography. The Metropolitan Building in Long Island City has been a long-time favorite of mine because it has dramatic lighting and excellent props.
It's Valentine's Day and it reminds me of all of the times in recent months I have photographed couples kissing! From NYC taxis to topiary gardens in NJ, I have taken many pictures of newlyweds kissing. Here are some of my favorite smooches. Have a lovely Valentine's Day! xoxo
Ally and Dan had a picture-perfect fall day for their wedding at the Beach Point Club in Mamaroneck. After their first look and portraits, they had a traditional Jewish ceremony outside at dusk, overlooking the Long Island sound. I grabbed them for a quick portrait on the jetty before they joined their guest for drinks, dancing and a really fun hora. I had an awesome time documenting their special day. Congrats Ally + Dan!!!
Murphy and Corbin had a beautiful day for their summer wedding in New Jersey. The ceremony was at Kean University's Liberty House and the tented reception was at the family's home. The wedding celebration had many family traditions and personal touches. The bride designed her own gorgeous wedding dress and several family members performed music during the reception. They are a beautiful couple on the inside and out and a joy to work with. Congrats to Murphy + Corbin!
Now that the winter cold is finally here, it makes me daydream about warmer days. This past summer I photographed a crew of cute kids at the Jersey Shore on a perfect, summer day. The five kids are cousins and it was really fun to document them candidly playing together on the beach. The cousin and sibling love shines bright in these photos. Stay warm!
