A beautifully designed wedding cake can be a statement piece at your reception—but is it the right choice for you? Whether you go traditional or explore creative dessert alternatives, your wedding should reflect what you love most.

Wedding Cake or No Cake? How to Decide & Creative Alternatives

Richard Nieves March 25, 2025

Debating whether to have a wedding cake or try something different? Some couples love the tradition, while others prefer creative dessert alternatives like cupcake towers or donut walls. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of having a wedding cake and offers unique ideas to make your dessert table unforgettable.

"Kate and Jason’s ceremony began at sunset and moved into full darkness—this moment was lit entirely with on-camera flash to preserve the mood, clarity, and detail as night fell.

How I Photograph Wedding Ceremonies Entering and After Sunset

Richard Nieves March 24, 2025

Planning a sunset ceremony? The light may disappear quickly, but your memories don’t have to. In this post, I break down how I photographed Kate and Jason’s twilight wedding at The Grandview using flash—without sacrificing emotion or clarity. Whether you're a couple getting married in the Northeast or a photographer learning to handle low light, you'll find something valuable here. Scroll through the post and fill out the contact form below if you'd like to talk about your own wedding day.

Should You Have Speeches at Your Wedding? Here’s What to Consider

Richard Nieves March 24, 2025

Not sure if you should have speeches at your wedding? Some couples love heartfelt toasts, while others prefer to keep the night moving without interruptions. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of wedding speeches, plus expert tips to keep them short, meaningful, and well-timed for a smooth reception.

5 Frames from a Family Walk in West Hudson Park on Ultramax 400

Richard Nieves March 23, 2025

A simple walk through West Hudson Park turned into a collection of small, meaningful moments captured on Kodak Ultramax 400. From quiet pauses on a bench to the energy of the basketball courts and the calm of the lake, these five frames document the beauty of everyday life on film.

An intimate ceremony setup in a stunning historic venue. Keeping your guest list small allows you to focus on meaningful details, from elegant decor to a more personal experience with loved ones.

How to Decide Your Wedding Guest Count: Intimate Celebration or Big Bash?

Richard Nieves March 21, 2025

Deciding on your wedding guest count is one of the biggest planning choices you’ll make. A smaller guest list can mean a more intimate experience, extra budget for details like photography and videography, and less stress. On the other hand, inviting everyone you love can create a high-energy celebration with unforgettable moments. Not sure which is right for you? This guide breaks down the pros and cons of both, helping you decide what fits your vision best.

Your wedding photographer should know how to capture moments like this—where joy, love, and excitement unfold naturally. Asking the right questions ensures you find someone who helps you feel comfortable and confident, turning genuine emotions into timeless images.

5 Essential Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer or Videographer Before Booking

Richard Nieves March 17, 2025

Choosing the right wedding photographer or videographer is about more than just loving their portfolio—it’s about finding someone who understands your vision and knows how to capture your emotions authentically. In this guide, I’ll walk you through five essential questions to ask before booking, ensuring your wedding day is documented in a way that feels true to you.

A groom stands at the altar, his eyes welling with emotion as he catches the first glimpse of his bride. His expression is a mix of anticipation, love, and overwhelming joy. The warm glow of chandeliers in the background adds to the intimate ambiance, while the greenery surrounding him frames the moment beautifully.

Why Waiting Until the Ceremony to See Each Other Can Be the Most Emotional Moment of Your Wedding Day

Richard Nieves March 4, 2025

Thinking about skipping a first look and waiting until the ceremony to see each other for the first time? That moment is pure magic. The anticipation, the emotion, and the reaction in front of your loved ones create an unforgettable experience. In this post, I’ll share why waiting until the ceremony can be one of the most powerful choices you make for your wedding day—and how to make it work seamlessly in your timeline.

How to Film a Ketubah Signing: Essential Tips for Capturing This Meaningful Tradition

Richard Nieves March 3, 2025

Capture the intimate and emotional moments of a ketubah signing with the right videography techniques. From using a two-camera setup to optimizing audio, here’s how to film this meaningful Jewish wedding tradition seamlessly. Watch a real ketubah signing at Perona Farms and learn how to document these special moments beautifully.

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

Richard Nieves February 26, 2025

J’nae and Nicholas’ wedding at 501 Union was a heartfelt celebration filled with raw emotion, deep connections, and an unforgettable dance floor. From J’nae’s touching moments with her bridesmaids to Nicholas’ tearful reaction as she walked down the aisle, every moment was pure magic. With the perfect blend of modern elegance and intimate charm, their Brooklyn wedding was a true testament to love and joy. Dive into their story and experience the energy of their incredible day!

A Summer Walk on the High Line: Family Moments in NYC

Richard Nieves February 10, 2025

Last summer, my wife, three kids, and I decided to embrace the city that never sleeps by taking a leisurely stroll along the High Line in New York City. For those who haven’t experienced it, the High Line is a transformed elevated railway turned into a lush park, running above the bustling streets of Manhattan. It offers stunning views, urban architecture, and a unique blend of nature and city life.

Setting the Scene

Our day began with anticipation. As we ascended to the High Line, we were greeted by a mix of greenery and modern structures. The first photo, featuring my younger kids peering through a fence at the trains below, perfectly captures their fascination with the city's hustle.

A Family Adventure

Walking hand in hand, we explored the beautifully landscaped pathways, enjoying the contrast of greenery against the towering buildings. One of my favorite spots was where we could see the iconic Vessel structure, an eye-catching art installation. It was a perfect moment to pause and take it all in.

Of course, the kids loved spotting the artwork and watching life unfold below. Meanwhile, my wife and I took turns pushing the stroller, with our youngest gazing up at the world around her. A sweet moment captured between my wife and our baby is one I’ll cherish forever.

City Views and Quiet Moments

The High Line isn’t just about the views; it’s also a place to reflect and connect. At one point, my wife and I sat on a bench while the kids explored nearby. The sounds of the city blended with the laughter of passersby, creating a melody unique to NYC.

A Walk to Remember

As we made our way toward the end of the High Line, we felt grateful for this simple yet meaningful adventure. It wasn’t just a walk; it was a day filled with discovery, laughter, and family connection—a perfect summer memory.