Professional Hudson Valley Wedding Photography

Documenting Your Wedding Day Story

Capturing Every Emotion that tells your story

Documentary style wedding photography captures the genuine moments of your special day in a natural and unobtrusive manner. Our professional wedding photography services specialize in documenting the moments that fill your wedding day to create timeless memories.

My approach focuses on storytelling, allowing the emotions, interactions, and candid expressions to unfold organically. By prioritizing authenticity over posed shots, each photograph reflects the true essence of your celebration, blending seamlessly into the narrative of your wedding.

I will make the result a collection of images that not only documents the day but also evoke the memories and feelings experienced in those fleeting moments. Whether it’s the laughter shared among friends or the quiet connection between the two of you, these captured images will serve as lasting reminders of your love story.

Every glance, laugh, and touch tells a story beyond the posed portrait

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, often leading to significant stress for engaged couples. I can help you navigate this unchartered territory with ease!

I will take the time to understand your specific requirements, including style, location, and atmosphere. This ensures that your final images align with your expectations.

By creating a timeline, we mitigate the stress associated with wedding planning. My goal is to create a personalized experience that highlights what is most important to you, whether it's creating a specific look or capturing candid moments that tell a story.

From the initial consultation to the final edits, each step is tailored to suit your desires. This level of customization not only enhances the overall outcome but also makes your photography experience more enjoyable and meaningful.

“Carol Santiago is a dream come true. We are so happy we found her for our wedding photography. Carol took the most amazing photos, we couldn't be happier! She is also the sweetest person and such a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend her service!”

— Natalie M.

HOW EXCITING!

Now you need to choose the right photographer for your wedding.

Hiring the right wedding photographer is SO important to putting together your dream wedding, but it can also be pretty stressful.

This is not an easy task and it’s totally normal if you feel overwhelmed, frustrated or confused. It’s not like you plan a wedding every day! This is all probably brand new to you, so be patient with yourself.

In my experience, STYLE, PERSONALITY, and PROFESSIONALISM are the biggest things to look for:

  • Your photographs should reflect the style and the vision that you have in mind for your wedding.

  • You’ll also want to go with a photographer who you and your guests will feel comfortable with - because the more comfortable your guests are, the more FUN they will have.

  • There’s a lot riding on this day, so you’ll need a photographer with the experience level to not just provide the base level, but know what you don’t in that area and guide you.

Here are some must-ask questions for your photographer - and really, ALL your potential wedding professionals before booking:

How long have you been a wedding photographer?

Ideally, your wedding pro should have lots of experience, specifically with weddings. Not only does this make them more skilled in their craft, but this also makes them a valuable source of information. It ensures that your wedding day goes smoothly. I have been shooting weddings both lead and second since 2000.

How much do you charge?

Price is often relative, especially when you factor in experience, reputation and expertise. Generally, the higher quality and experience, the higher price tag. I like to get to know my couples, your likes and dislikes, so that we can create images that are totally you. My rates begin at $3,500.

How much is the deposit, and when is it and the balance due?

Deposit amounts vary wildly depending on the overall cost of the services you’re purchasing. Our non-refundable deposit of $500 is paid when signing the contract, with the remaining balance due before the wedding day. We can also do installments throughout the planning process if you’d like.

What specifically is included in that cost?

Packages often vary, so it’s likely that you won’t be able to compare one vendor exactly to the next without doing a little figuring. Keep in mind that the lowest cost isn’t necessarily the best deal; some higher quotes include services that you have to pay extra for in other packages, so make sure you take this into account. My $3,500 base package includes 6-8 hours of coverage with 2 photographers and an online gallery of high-resolution images. Travel time and additional items like albums or prints will bring the total cost higher.

What happens if you cannot perform your duties for whatever reason?

Do they have a back-up plan if something happens to them, or if something out of either of your control happens? This is important, since you might be stuck without the crucial services that you paid for if they do not have a plan in place. I have several competent professional photographers that I work with on a regular basis and we all cover for each other in such an event.

How do I get the contract back to you?

If they answer with something like, “I don’t usually bother with contracts,” RUN! A contract is designed to protect both you and that wedding professional; don’t settle for a verbal agreement that won’t hold up in court. My contracts can be delivered via digitally or regular mail.

Are there any additional fees beyond what’s quoted?

Taxes, service charges and travel fees can add up quickly. Make sure that you understand exactly what is included and if there are any other fees that you’ll have to pay. This should be clearly defined in your contract. Our price is signed on contract.

Do you carry liability insurance?

The answer you’re looking for here is, “Yes.” This protects you in case an unfortunate accident should occur on your wedding day. It’s also a sign that you’re dealing with a reputable business, since most “fly by night” operations don’t invest in insurance. I am fully insured.

There IS no stupid question, except for the one you don’t ask.

Lastly, GO WITH YOUR GUT

These are just some basic starter questions to ask…if you have more specific ones, I’m always here to help answer them! You can reach me any time by clicking the link below or calling me directly at 845.235.4297

  • Jennifer L.

    “My husband and I enlisted Carol Santiago Photography's services for our wedding day. We were so happy to have Carol capture our special day. She was so professional, reasonably priced and captured all our memories. She not only took all the pictures we hoped for, but many moments and candids that we didn't even notice. We are enjoying reviewing the pictures and revisiting such a wonderful day! We would highly recommend her photography expertise! Thank you Carol”!

  • Angelina M.

    “My husband and I hired Carol for our wedding in October of 2021. I knew from our first phone call that I wanted to hire her! Carol was very professional and very easy to talk to. Over several phone conversations and emails, we worked together to plan the entire wedding day timeline! The process of booking our wedding date, to having a engagement session, all the way to receiving our photos after the wedding was completely stress free and exciting! Once the excitement ended we purchased the most beautiful wedding album from Carol and worked closely with her to make it absolutely perfect! We hope to work with Carol again in the future”!

  • William B.

    “My wife Renée and I had Carol photograph are special day at locust grove a few weeks back and she did a fantastic job. Carol actually came to our home a week before the wedding just to go thru our itinerary, dances, wants and needs, poses and just to get to know each other. It really made me for one, to feel very comfortable the day of the wedding cause I hate taking photos.

    Carol Santiago photography went above and beyond for us and we can’t recommend them enough.

    Thanks from the bottom of our heart.”