Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and choosing the right wedding photographer is just as important as picking the perfect dress or venue.
These are the images that will tell the story of your love for years to come, so it’s key to find a photographer who can capture every emotion, detail, and spontaneous moment.
In 2024, wedding photography is more than just posed portraits—it’s about creativity, innovation, and storytelling.
The photographers on this list are redefining the industry with their artistic vision, fresh techniques, and unique approach to capturing weddings.
Whether it’s cinematic storytelling, documentary-style shots, or breathtaking editorial photography, these creatives bring something extraordinary to the table.
Keep reading to discover the most creative and famous wedding photographers of 2024 who are turning wedding moments into timeless works of art.
Key Takeaways
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Wedding photography in 2024 goes beyond traditional portraits, focusing on artistic storytelling, documentary-style shots, and fine art techniques that capture emotions and spontaneous moments.
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Featured photographers like Jesse & Moira La Plante, Jose Villa, Samm Blake, and others bring unique styles, from film photography to the innovative “Brenizer Method,” setting new standards in the field.
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Finding the best photographer isn’t just about skill; it’s about matching their style to your vision, ensuring professionalism, and feeling comfortable with their approach on your big day.
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The best wedding photographers don’t just take pictures—they create lasting keepsakes that preserve the emotions, energy, and essence of a couple’s love story.
Best Wedding Photographers in 2024
Credits: @ thebudgetsavvybride / Pinterest
Finding the best wedding photographers isn’t just about finding someone with a camera—it’s about selecting a professional photographer who can capture the genuine emotions, special moments, and small details of your wedding day.
Before we talk about how you can choose the best wedding photographer, let’s look at some of the best ones first.
In 2024, the world of wedding photography has seen an influx of talented artists who bring a unique style and a creative perspective to their work.
From Southern California to New York, these leading wedding photographers are redefining what it means to capture a special day in stunning and memorable ways. Here are some talented professionals to consider this year:
Jesse & Moira La Plante – Award-Winning Documentary Wedding Photographers (Colorado, USA)
Source: thisisreportage.com
Based in Colorado, this husband-and-wife team has been recognized as the top U.S. photographers in 2024 by This is Reportage. With nine awards in 2024, their work is celebrated for its artistic flair and ability to capture the essence of each couple’s story.
Jesse and Moira focus on capturing intimate moments and genuine emotions, blending into the background to document each couple’s story as it unfolds. Their ability to capture stunning portraits with an artistic edge makes them stand out.
It’s no wonder that they have been recognized as the wedding photographers of the year since they have more than a decade of experience in professional photography.
Their signature style blends documentary storytelling and fine art photography, resulting in timeless images of emotion and authenticity. Moreover, their artistic vision focuses on creating images that feel cinematic, powerful, and deeply meaningful.
So, if you want to showcase the beauty of both your everyday life and your big day itself, they’re worth the shot.
What makes them even stand out in the photography industry is their ability to turn intimate moments into breathtaking works of art. They’re a great choice for couples who want their special day captured with authenticity.
Jose Villa – The Master of Fine Art Film Wedding Photography (California, USA)
Source: josevilla.com
Few photographers in the world of wedding photography have mastered the art of capturing genuine emotions and intimate moments, quite like Jose Villa.
His approach is rooted in storytelling, allowing each couple’s wedding day to unfold naturally while he positions himself discreetly to document authentic interactions.
Instead of staging shots, he blends into the background, offering gentle guidance when needed. This creates natural, elegant, and personal portraits.
What truly distinguishes Jose is his signature style, which is defined by his expertise in film photography.
Unlike digital photography, film creates soft, pastel-toned images that feel romantic and timeless. His skill with natural light and attention to small details make every photo a beautifully crafted work of art.
This distinctive aesthetic has made his work a staple in publications such as Martha Stewart Weddings, Style Me Pretty, and The Knot, further solidifying his reputation as a leader in the industry.
With over two decades of experience, Jose has photographed luxury destination weddings in some of the most breathtaking locations, including Santa Barbara, Lake Como, and beyond.
His artistic vision extends beyond simply documenting an event—each photograph serves as a timeless keepsake.
And that’s because he blends elements of fashion photography and genuine wedding storytelling. By seamlessly merging emotion, artistry, and technique, Jose Villa continues to set the standard as one of the best wedding photographers today.
Samm Blake – A Visionary in Fine Art and Documentary Wedding Photography (New York City, USA)
Source: adammason.com
Samm Blake is one of the few photographers with rare talent in wedding photography. With a background in graphic design and fine art, she approaches each wedding with a creative style that blends documentary storytelling with an editorial touch.
Her expertise in capturing heartfelt moments allows couples to relive their beautiful memories for years to come. Rather than staging forced poses, she prioritizes real moments, letting the couple’s natural connection shine.
Whether photographing intimate weddings or large-scale celebrations, she seamlessly documents every part of the day—from the quiet exchanges of vows to the high-energy magic of the dance floor.
That’s why her distinctive style stands out for its mix of film and digital formats, creating timeless, elegant visuals.
Her fine art approach, combined with a keen eye for gorgeous fashions and emotion-driven storytelling, results in wedding images that feel deeply personal and cinematic.
This approach has made her one of the most sought-after photographers for private weddings in the United Kingdom, the East Coast, and historic estates worldwide.
With over 20 years of experience, Samm Blake has photographed weddings around the globe, including luxury destination weddings and intimate weddings for high-profile clients. What’s more?
She has worked alongside other top female photographers, such as Shannen Norman & Emily, forming a team of female photographers who specialize in capturing love stories with authenticity and grace.
Especially if you’re not used to posing for photographs, Samm’s positive energy can help you feel at ease in front of the camera. As a result, you can ensure that every photo captures precious moments rather than staged perfection.
She believes wedding photography should be about preserving the real emotions and connections that make each love story unique. As a classic wedding photographer with an editorial twist, she creates beautiful memories that feel effortless yet artistically refined.
Ryan Brenizer – The Innovator Behind the Brenizer Method in Wedding Photography (New York City, USA)
Source: thebrenizers.com
For over the past decade, Ryan Brenizer has been redefining the craft of wedding photography with his unique perspective and groundbreaking techniques.
His ability to capture real moments and genuine emotions makes him the right photographer for couples who want their beautiful love story documented with authenticity and artistry. With a strong foundation in photojournalism, he focuses on storytelling rather than posed perfection.
So, if you want to ensure that every aspect of the entire process—from engagement pictures to the wedding party—feels natural and full of life, consider him.
His editorial style, combined with his innovative “Brenizer Method,” sets him apart from other professional photographers.
This technique, also known as the Bokeh Panorama, allows him to create every portrait photographer’s dream—stunning images with a shallow depth of field and a wide-angle perspective.
What’s more is that his expertise in lighting and composition means he can adapt to any setting, from a dimly lit reception hall to a dramatic sunset ceremony. These skills only show why they named a photographic technique after him—the Brenizer Method.
With experience spanning over 1,000 weddings worldwide, Ryan has built a reputation as a sought-after destination wedding photographer in various locations.
So, if you want something beyond the ordinary, his ability to balance artistry with storytelling makes him the perfect wedding photographer.
Ken Pak – Premier Wedding Photographer (Washington, D.C.)
Source: thisisreportage.com
Ken Pak, an internationally acclaimed wedding photographer, is based in Washington, D.C., and serves the surrounding areas of Virginia and Maryland.
With over a decade of experience, Ken has earned numerous accolades, including recognition from Fearless Photographers, the Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA), and SLR Lounge.
That’s not surprising since his ability to capture raw, candid emotions can make you feel authentic and spontaneous. His documentary-style approach ensures that every moment, from fleeting glances to joyful embraces, is preserved naturally.
Rather than staging interactions, he lets couples and guests be themselves, blending into the background while staying keenly aware of the emotions unfolding around him.
This unobtrusive presence enables him to document the day without interference, ensuring that each photograph feels organic and full of life.
His signature style is a perfect fusion of artistic creativity and documentary storytelling. Known for his modern, vibrant imagery, he skillfully plays with natural light, dynamic compositions, and unique angles to craft timeless visuals.
His use of dramatic lighting elevates his work, giving each frame a cinematic and emotionally compelling quality. WeddingWire has even described him as “one of the most creative photographers in the industry,” highlighting his ability to produce imagery that is both intimate and visually striking.
What sets Ken Pak apart is his ability to blend photojournalism with artistic expression. His keen eye for human connection, composition, and emotion allows him to create wedding images that are as powerful as they are beautiful.
Whether photographing an intimate elopement or a grand wedding celebration, he delivers work that is deeply personal, timeless, and full of life.
Emin Kuliyev – Award-Winning Wedding Photographer (New York City)
Source: wpja.com
Emin Kuliyev, a distinguished wedding photographer based in New York City, has garnered international acclaim for his exceptional talent in capturing authentic, candid moments.
With over 22 years of experience, he has honed a unique style that blends photojournalism with artistic creativity. That’s why his images are emotionally evocative and visually compelling.
Throughout his illustrious career, Emin has received numerous accolades, including being named Photographer of the Year by the Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA) in 2011 and 2014 and by the Artistic Guild of the WPJA (AGWPJA) in 2008.
His remarkable achievements also include securing 67 Fearless Awards, a testament to his consistent excellence and innovation in wedding photography.
Emin’s approach is characterized by his ability to anticipate and capture spontaneous emotions and interactions, ensuring that each photograph tells a genuine story.
His keen eye for unique angles and compositions, combined with his adept use of natural light, allows him to create images that are both intimate and dynamic.
For couples seeking a photographer who can authentically document the essence of their special day, Emin can be your choice. You’ll surely enjoy an unparalleled blend of experience, creativity, and professionalism.
Julia Wade – North Carolina’s Premier Wedding Photojournalist (Raleigh, North Carolina)
For over 16 years, Julia Wade, a renowned wedding photographer based in Raleigh, North Carolina, has been transforming fleeting moments into cherished heirlooms.
Her passion for storytelling, combined with a deep understanding of human connection, allows her to capture the essence of a couple’s most significant day with elegance and authenticity.
That may be due to Julia’s approach, which is rooted in genuine emotion and real connections. She believes that the most beautiful images come from couples fully immersing themselves in their wedding day rather than focusing on the camera.
By seamlessly blending into the background, she documents candid moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. This means ensuring that every embrace, tear, and joyful laugh is preserved in its purest form.
With a harmonious blend of photojournalism and fine art, Julia’s work is known for its vibrant, emotionally rich images.
Some portraits are meticulously composed, capturing the grandeur and details of the moment, while others are spontaneous and raw, reflecting the unpredictable beauty of real love stories.
This balance between artistry and storytelling creates wedding photographs that feel both elegant and deeply personal.
For Julia, wedding photography is about more than just pictures—it’s about preserving the emotions, energy, and love of the day. And we, especially her previous clients, couldn’t agree more.
That’s why she strives to create images that, years down the road, will transport couples back to the excitement, warmth, and deep emotions of their wedding.
Her work is not just about documentation but about creating an emotional legacy that families will treasure for generations.
Julia’s ability to blend into the wedding day without intrusion yet capture the most intimate and powerful moments sets her apart.
Her dedication to ensuring a stress-free, seamless experience for couples—paired with her artistic storytelling and technical mastery—makes her a top choice for those seeking timeless, emotionally resonant wedding photography.
Each wedding Julia photographs is unique, yet every image carries her signature touch—an elegant balance of love, light, and authenticity.
Jeff Tisman – Pushing the Boundaries of Wedding Photography in Hudson Valley
Source: fearlessphotographers.com
With a career spanning 27 years, Jeff Tisman has photographed over 1,200 weddings, bringing his signature edgy, documentary-style approach to couples who want something more than traditional wedding photography.
His journey into the wedding industry started in an unexpected place—the music world, where he captured legendary rock bands. That high-energy, dynamic experience now fuels his ability to anticipate and freeze the most spontaneous, unscripted moments of a wedding day.
For Jeff, wedding photography isn’t about forced smiles or posed perfection—it’s about capturing the true essence of a couple’s love story as it unfolds naturally.
Drawing from his background in music photography, he thrives in fast-paced environments. This allows him to catch fleeting moments, raw emotions, and behind-the-scenes interactions with a level of authenticity few photographers achieve.
His documentary approach ensures that every laugh, every tear, and every stolen glance is preserved exactly as it happened.
That’s what makes Jeff’s creative and bold style stand out. Instead of sticking to tradition, he incorporates fashion-inspired compositions, dynamic lighting, and unique perspectives that elevate wedding photography into an artistic experience.
His images are filled with energy, movement, and personality. So, if you want to relive your wedding day in a way that feels cinematic yet deeply personal, he’s your guy.
Jeff Tisman isn’t just a wedding photographer—he’s an artist who redefines what wedding photography can be. Having earned 67 Fearless Awards, along with numerous accolades from top photography organizations, he continues to push the boundaries of his craft.
Choosing the Right Wedding Photographer
Choosing the right wedding photographer is a pivotal decision in preserving the memories of your special day. A skilled photographer not only captures moments but also the emotions and essence of your celebration.
Here’s a guide to help you select the perfect photographer for your wedding.
- Define Your Preferred Style: Every photographer has a unique approach, so it’s essential to find one that aligns with your vision. Whether you prefer traditional posed shots, candid photojournalism, artistic fine art, or stylized editorial photography, reviewing full wedding galleries will help you identify the style that best fits your big day.
- Assess Experience and Professionalism: Experience matters when it comes to wedding photography. A seasoned professional knows how to handle different lighting conditions, manage unexpected challenges, and maintain consistency across various venues. Always ask to see full wedding galleries—not just highlight reels—to ensure quality throughout an entire event.
- Evaluate Personality and Compatibility: Your photographer will be with you throughout the wedding, so it’s crucial to feel comfortable around them. A great photographer should be easy to communicate with, make you feel at ease in front of the camera, and have the confidence to direct group shots efficiently. Scheduling an in-person or virtual meeting helps determine if their personality is the right fit for your wedding.
- Check Reviews and Testimonials: Past client reviews provide valuable insight into a photographer’s reliability, professionalism, and the quality of their final images. Look at testimonials on The Knot, WeddingWire, and Google to see if couples were happy with their experience. A photographer with consistently positive feedback is more likely to deliver exceptional results.
The best wedding photographers we’ve listed above have set industry standards through their innovative techniques and dedication to their craft.
However, selecting the right wedding photographer involves careful consideration of style, experience, personality, and professional reputation.
By prioritizing these factors, you can ensure your wedding memories are captured beautifully and authentically.
Conclusion
Finding the right wedding photographer is an essential part of planning your wedding, as they will be responsible for capturing the moments you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
The best photographers do more than just take pictures; they tell a story, preserving the emotions, details, and energy of your big day in a way that feels both authentic and timeless.
As you make your decision, refer back to the list of key considerations: define your preferred style, assess experience and professionalism, evaluate personality and compatibility, and check reviews and testimonials.
Taking the time to carefully go through each of these steps ensures that you choose someone whose vision aligns with yours and who will make you feel comfortable throughout the process.
Your wedding day is filled with fleeting moments—glances exchanged, laughter shared, and heartfelt embraces. And all of these deserve to be captured with care and artistry so that you can look back on them in the future.
By selecting a photographer who understands and respects your vision, you ensure that those moments will be preserved beautifully, allowing you to relive your special day for years to come.