Capturing Authentic Stories in the Berkshires, Vermont, Hudson Valley, and Catskills on Film & Digital

It’s been a while, so I wanted to reintroduce myself a bit. I’m Hannah, and I’m a documentary wedding photographer who shoot both film & digital photography in New England and New York. I’m excited to share a little about the kind of celebrations I get to photograph: real moments, genuine emotions, and stories that feel truly authentic. I’m passionate about capturing the heart of a special day, from the big, celebratory moments to the quiet, in-between ones. I feel so lucky to work in such gorgeous parts of the Northeast.

I specialize in documentary photography and film photography, frequently traveling throughout the Berkshires, Hudson Valley, Vermont, and Catskills to create unique visual narratives of events. I really connect with couples who are drawn to a more candid and natural way of capturing their celebrations.

Why Choose a Documentary Approach?

Lots of couples are drawn to documentary photography because it’s all about capturing the real atmosphere and heartfelt emotions of their day. While posed portraits definitely have their place, my focus is on letting moments unfold naturally and capturing them as they happen. This is at the very heart of my work. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Authenticity: I prioritize genuine moments—no forced smiles here. I don’t like to manufacture moments at a wedding day. Instead I just watch closely as the beauty unfolds.
  • Storytelling: I aim to create a cohesive narrative of the event, from start to finish.
  • Unobtrusiveness: I blend into the background, letting everyone fully experience the celebration.

Exploring the Berkshires, Vermont, Hudson Valley, and Catskills:

These four regions are some of my favorite places in the Northeast to photograph weddings. Each one offers such a fantastic variety of settings, each with its own distinct vibe:

  • Berkshires Wedding Photography: The Berkshires in Western Massachusetts—I just love it here. It’s got rolling hills, charming little towns, and a really cool arts scene. From elegant estates to rustic barns, and even more industrial spaces it’s a beautiful backdrop for pretty much any celebration. I find so much inspiration in capturing authentic moments amidst the natural beauty and unique venues. I remember wandering through the galleries of Mass MoCA and the grounds of TOURISTS with a couple for portraits, or watching as the couple’s siblings surprised them by playing music at their wedding ceremony at Race Brook Lodge. Or, if you’re looking for more of an estate venue, The Mount is absolutely stunning. The mix of culture and natural beauty makes it a perfect setting for heartfelt, unscripted images.
  • Vermont Wedding Photography: I grew up in New England, so I try not to play favorites with the states there, but Vermont is up there. They are mountains, hills, the most picturesque little farms and once again a truly awesome cultural scene. Up in the city of Burlington, the Blind Tiger boasts some of the loveliest interiors and grounds I have ever photographed at. Or for more of a country feel, The Grafton Inn in Grafton, VT has a range of reception spaces and a truly lovely forested ceremony ever. A few years ago, I worked at Edson Hill for a wedding, and I cannot stop thinking about the alfresco patio dinner the couple had there. Some of my other favorite spots in the area are Hildene, Topnotch Resort, and Mountain Top Resort.
  • Hudson Valley Wedding Photography: The Hudson Valley in New York—what’s not to love? Those rolling hills, the old estates, the little towns…it’s just such a gorgeous place for a wedding. And it’s not even that far to travel out of New York City! It’s kind of magical. This past fall, I photographed a wedding at Hutton Brickyards, and it was one of my favorites of the season. The couple had their ceremony overlooking the river, and their reception in a spacious outdoor pavilion. Some other venues I love in the Hudson Valley are Arrow Park (you’ll feel like you’re in Europe instead of New York), Cedar Lakes Estate, and Blue Hill at Stone Barns.
  • Catskills Wedding Photography: The Catskills Mountains have this rugged, wild beauty that’s perfect for couples looking for something a bit more adventurous and intimate. From cozy cabins tucked away in the woods to sprawling farms, the Catskills offer a unique and stunning setting. I’m always drawn to the natural beauty here, and I love capturing candid moments that really reflect the spirit of this special place. The spaces at Friends and Neighbors are clean and modern, and are truly a dream to photograph in. I just photographed a small wedding there and I loved exploring the main space and the super modern accommodations. Or for more of a rustic feel Seven Ponds Farm has beautiful grounds and a lovely barn space for the reception. I remember photographing a raucous dance party inside it a few years ago with one super fun couple. Gather Greene and Foreland also stand out as beautiful backdrops for a wedding day.

Working with Film & Digital Photography:

I’m drawn to the timeless quality of film photography, but I also really appreciate the versatility of digital photography. I use both to capture the full range of emotions and details of a special day. There’s just something about the grain and texture of film and the way it renders colors. Plus it allows me to be truly creative and makes me slow down and be more intentional with my shooting. While digital is just so fast and nimble. It makes it perfect for snapping candid moments of guests, and it really shines in its ability to handle low-light situations during a reception.

Let’s See Some Photos:

a couple at their wedding reception at Edson Hill in Vermont
a bride sits in the garden room at Blind Tiger in Burlington, Vermont
a couple stands with a horse on a private estate in Vermont
a couple kisses at their Race Brook Lodge wedding ceremony in the Berkshires
a couple stands in a field in Quechee, Vermont
a wedding party at Tourists in the Berkshires
a couple had their engagement shoot at a greenhouse in the Berkshires
Bridesmaids sit in a field at Gloriosa & Co. in the Berkshires
a couple having their wedding at Topnotch Resort in Stowe, Vermont
a wedding reception at Seven Ponds Farm in the Catskills
Seven Ponds Farm in the Catskills, NY
wedding guests dance at a winery in the Catskills, NY
a couple pets some cows on their wedding day at a private estate in the Catskills
a wedding ceremony at the Grafton Inn in Grafton, Vermont
a table Setting at a reception at Mass MoCA
a bride and a groom at Hutton Brickyards

If you connect with my style and are planning a celebration in the Berkshires, Hudson Valley, Vermont, or the Catskills, I’d love to hear from you! Get in touch to discuss your vision! Contact me to chat about wedding photography in New England or New York!

The Journal

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