As a Long Island wedding and elopement photographer, there is something undeniably captivating about an intimate, coastal celebration planned with intention. This late summer, I had the honor of documenting Brittney and her husband’s beautiful micro-wedding across two scenic Suffolk County locations: Old Field Point Lighthouse in Setauket and The Oar Steak & Seafood Grill in Patchogue. Designed around a relaxed, beachy vision, their day brought together 34 of their closest loved ones for an effortless celebration that balanced unscripted, candid moments with elevated, editorial direction.
We began the day along the dramatic North Shore bluffs of Old Field Point Lighthouse, staging a private first look along the coastal path. Navigating midday coastal sunlight can easily cause harsh contrast on open sand or stone, so we structured our portrait block by utilizing natural backlighting against the Long Island Sound and finding pockets of soft, even tree-line shade near the lighthouse grounds. This allowed Brittney and her groom to stay relaxed while keeping skin tones clean, radiant, and true to tone. Following an unhurried couples’ portrait set, we made the smooth transition south to Patchogue, arriving at The Oar for a touching first look with her father right along the marina dock before stepping into their ceremony.
Documenting the celebration on the water, from their heartfelt vows to candid table toasts, family formals along the dock, and a relaxed lunch overlooking the river, proved that intimate micro-weddings carry an unmatched emotional energy. Documenting authentic, stylish love stories across Long Island and the New York boroughs is the heartbeat of my studio. If you are currently searching for a Long Island elopement photographer or planning your own celebration at The Oar or Old Field Point Lighthouse, I would love to help bring your creative vision to life.