One Venue, Four Weddings: Ithaca Farmers Market, Ithaca, NY
Four different couples. Four different aesthetics. Four different types of weddings were held at the Ithaca Farmer's Market - each of them showcased a couples’ unique style and focused on what mattered most to each of them.
There’s just something about the Ithaca Farmers Market…
It’s rustic, but still has that “crunchy Ithaca granola” vibe to it
It loved throughout the community, and some of my couples even visited the market while they attended school in Ith, and decided to get married there!
It has a built in rain plan! No need to worry about tents.
It’s RIGHT on the lake. On hotter summer days, I can’t tell you how wonderful a cooler lake breeze feels.
The space allows for your personality to shine - you can dress it up or keep it to its bones. This blog post is to showcase how different couples approached their wedding day decor, and it always looked lovely.
It’s outside of downtown Ithaca, and is quiet easy to get to.
Also with it being close to downtown Ithaca, you have ample places to get ready, including hotels, Airbnb’s, and Bed and Breakfasts.
Last summer, they paved their parking lot, so now parking is simple, well-lit and weather resistant!
It’s ADA accessible so all of your guests can be comfortable.
Two Quick JZPS Photo Tips:
If you have a lot of set up, I highly recommend hiring a month of or day-of coordinator to ensure that everything gets set up!
The sweetheart table is usually placed at the entrance of the market - now with the snazzy new parking lot set up, another option can to have it near a booth for speeches, dances (reaction shots), and dinner.
Getting Ready
Van and Alex got ready in a big house through AirBnB in downtown Ithaca on separate sides of the house, then met in the middle for their first look.
Lizz got ready at her childhood home with her family, while James got ready at Firelight Camps with his friends and family.
Jolan got ready at a cozy AirBnB near Ithaca College, and Ben got ready only a short walk away at the Inn on Columbia.
Emily got ready at a funky, modern AirBnB outside of downtown, and had a backup option of getting ready at the Fountain Place
First Look & Vows
Couples Portraits
Ceremony
Emily and Ethan were SO worried about the weather - there was a chance of rain all day. BUT right before the ceremony, the sun appeared, and they were able to have their ceremony outdoors as they had hoped.
Van and Alex’s wedding day was so rainy! That didn’t stop the ceremony though - they were able to have it in the market and bring all the chairs in. It still overlooked the lake, but everyone was able to stay dry and celebrate.
The morning pf the wedding day, James built a chuppah with his friends, made with wood from the area.
Jolan and Ben’s wedding was in late spring, but the day was PERFECT.
Venue Decoration
Everyone had different aesthetics for their wedding days.
Van and Alex went all out! Customized napkins, felt made flowers, greenery lining the market sign, and bundles of balloons everywhere. This was a super cool, artsy couple, so they really wanted to showcase their love of prop-making and design. They had long tables so friends and family can easily chat and share stories.
Jolan and Ben welcomed the early spring aesthetic and really let the venue shine - they focused on bright, colorful florals, and minimal design. Those florals were GORGEOUS !
Emily and Ethan’s authentic was super classy - think white and sage colors, with clean florals. Everything fit the mood - a calm day that was meant to focus on connection and getting married.
With Lizz and James, they loved hosting dinner parties and having friends over - to them their wedding was no different. Each table included a flower on guests plate, along with recipes on the back of the table numbers. With them, each guest was an intentional part of their story, and they wanted them to feel at home.
Reception
Each of these weddings had different receptions - all had energetic or lovey first dances, wholesome cake cuttings, and speeches that made everyone in the room tear up. However, they were all different enough to match the personality and goals of the couple.
One thing I love about the Farmers Market, is how you can really make it your own. There’s so many ways to decorate and incorporate your personal styles.
No matter how many times I photograph a wedding, it’s always different. But the people are always the kindest cuties :)
VENDORS from each wedding
Lizz and James
Planner: KM Lyons Events
Catering/Desserts: Gola Osteria
Bulk Florals from Pistil and Pollen
Rentals: She Rents Vintage
DJ: DJ Tuggle
Van and Alex
Day-of Wedding Coordinator: Terra Rosa
Florals: Handmade by the couple
Bar/Rentals: Serendipity Catering
Catering: Van Noble Farm
String Trio: Rintaro Wada
Actor/Puppeteer: Lilypad Puppet Theatre
Emily and Ethan
Planner: LuLu Bee Weddings
Catering/Dessert/Rentals: Serendipity Catering
Florals: Willow Floral Studios
Hair & Makeup: Grace Holistic Beauty & Wellness
DJ: Westphal Music
Jolan and Ben
Catering: Beacon Events and Catering
Photographer: Juliette Zyg Picture Studios
Florals: Plenty of Posies
Desserts: Ithaca Bread Works
Hair: Mavin Hair & Beautty
Band: Silver Arrow Band (!!!!)
Check out my other, real life weddings & helpful guides below
About Juliette…
Juliette is a wedding photographer and videographer based in Upstate New York. She specializes in wholesome and nostalgic imagery, ensuring her couples are present on their wedding day and also have bomb photos.
Juliette grew up in Ithaca and then attended Ithaca College years later. The crunchy, granola city holds a special place in her heart.
While visiting Ithaca nowadays, Juliette loves going to local coffee shops (all hail Gimme Coffee and the Botanist), buying Ithaca College merch she doesn’t need, and picking up weird stickers at her favorite funky stores.
Stress-Free Family Session Tips
No, your family is not crazy. Family sessions are just stressful sometimes.
There’s so much going on while getting your photos taken, but it’s completely normal! The chaos of family photos is one of my favorite things in the world because it’s not organized like a wedding, and it requires me to think on my toes and really be a fly on the wall.
While in the thick of babyland…
my husband and I decided to do photos when our kiddo was one-month old. I remember running around, making sure my son was comfortable, the spitup on my shirt wasn’t showing (classy ikr), and that his outfit wasn’t stained or going to spitup on me again.
It was a lot. 🫠
Looking at those photos a year later, I cannot believe how small he was. Those photos are a specific moment in time I have minimal recollection of because I just had a baby (nbd), but also was so enveloped in that world.
I can’t stress enough how important it is to document your cute life!
My main focus is not getting forced smiles
I go into family sessions not planning to direct you. Yes, there will be cutie-patootie photos of your guys together, but it’s the in-between moments when they get to run around with the dogs, give you a hug and cheese towards the camera or look at your partner with love as they hand them a snack.
That’s what I’m always looking for.
Before our session, we’ll sit down and chat about what you want documented.
We’ll come up with a few activities you and your family will enjoy doing so that it doesn’t feel staged or stuffy - or I can just document a normal day for you.
Whether it’s a picnic in the yard, a pizza and bowling outing, or just making dinner at home while the kids play The Floor is Lava, this is a moment in time that you get to see.
Documenting the growth of families is quite possibly the biggest honor I could have as your photographer !
TIPS FOR STRESS-FREE FAMILY SESSIONS
Don’t expect it to be stress free
You will be constantly thinking about how your hair looks, if your kids are smiling enough, if your oldest is secretly flipping off the camera to be funny - it’s a lot.
As a family photographer, I’m there to use my camera and document the afternoon, but I’m also looking at all the chaos and I’m choosing what to document. I will 1000% let you know if your hair looks wonky, if there’s anything in your teeth or any other small details.
Go with the flow
While the posed photos are always nice to have, actually going with the flow of what the kids want to do can be quite fun. I find that when parents are more flexible and are engaging with the kids instead of telling them where to go or how to stand, they are more receptive towards having their photo taken.
We will get great photos, but by being a little more relaxed you’re also able to enjoy the process and get some grossly cute pics of you and your kids when they’re not being rabid animals. The photos are meant to reflect your current season of life
If the kids are smaller and like to sit and play, we’ll plan for maybe something more chill and indoors. If they are jumping jellybeans running and jumping on e v e r y w h e r e, we will be prepared to do something outside where they can have time to run freely.
If you were being forced to do photos after having a humongous cup of caffeinated coffee and couldn’t sit still, you also would not like to be sitting prettily in front of a tree trying to stay chill. Your kids probably won’t either.
Time of the session matters
If the kids are cranky in the evening, but are a little easygoing in the morning, we’ll plan for that time. Vice versa if they are little crazy chickens in the morning. I work around their schedule.
Don’t do a 3 hour photoshoot
Your session doesn’t have to be as long as an hour, or it can be as short as 20 minutes. Feel out how long you think your kid(s) attention will last. If you did want to do a three hour photoshoot, we definitely can, but snacks will be needed for all parties.
For families with kiddos under one years old, I usually recommend 20-30 minute sessions simply because they have a certain wake window/meal window. That can also be extended if you want photos of
Sessions that are 30-60 minutes or more would be good for bigger families or kiddos that are a bit older, and might need more time to feel comfortable in front of the camera.
Every session is different for each family, this is just a base line of where you can go with the session.
If you did want to do a three hour photoshoot, it’s totally doable, but snacks will be needed for all parties involved.
FEED THE BEAST WITHIN
Be sure everyone has had a snack or a meal before the session - including you and your partner. If someone is hangry, no one will have a good time. Bringing snacks is always nice. I also love stopping for snacks, so that is absolutely no inconvenience.
We aren’t going to constantly be taking photos
There will be time to breathe, figure out what the kids want (or what you would like to do), and just take a second. I’m in no rush at sessions, and unless kiddos were promised ice cream after, I don’t think they are either.
No, your family is not crazy
Family dynamics are different with every family I meet.
Some kids are quieter than others, some kids are more hyper - that’s ok! My goal for the session isn’t to photograph little robot kids, it’s to document how they are now.
If they like running like a chicken, let’s do it. If they have a new silly face they consider their signature look, we’ll get a portrait.
Family sessions are very unserious because we’re working with little humans who don’t love to stand still for too long. It’s like if you had a session just standing in line at the DMV - you may also throw a tantrum.
The ultimate guide on what to bring to your session
Throw all this in a big bag or basket and chuck it in the car.
Extra snacks that are good on the go
Apple slices, pouches, small bags of chips, granola bars, etc.
For babies, these can be teether crackers or just teething rings.
A drink of water, juice, etc, just in case it’s warm.
An extra outfit - I know you just got this super cute little onesie or pair of jeans for your kiddo, but in case an unexpected bodily function happens before or mid shoot, or someone wipes out in the grass…you’re covered.
A diaper bag if applicable.
A large blanket for sitting.
Wipes for boogers (ew).
Lastly, you got this.
We’re going to have a great time!
— Meet Your Photographer —
I’m Juliette and I’m an Upstate New York photographer specializing in weddings, and families.
My interest in photography started by taking portraits of my pet chickens as a 6 year-old, and has since then expanded into documenting nostalgic shenanigans and stories for humans nationwide.
The photo on the side was at our most recent family photo session where I spent the whole time making sure my child was happy and didn’t notice the huge rip in my stockings!
Every single of the photos from this session are my favorites I’ve ever had taken!
Sunny Sherwood Inn Wedding in Skaneateles
A nostalgic Skaneateles weekend spend exploring the lake, a wedding at the Sherwood Inn, and dancing so hard you forget the cake cutting.
Favorite things about M and C’s wedding weekend:
The weather: Perfect day!! Not too hot or cold, it was sunny, and bright for August. Anytime I can spend a wedding day outside, play with sunshine and shadows and it’s my favorite thing in the world.
The ceremony: Everyone was so present during the ceremony. There was an energy in the air that made everyone watch, participate and sing, and cheer when the were announced. There was also honking in the background from car, but they were getting married on Main Street in Skaneateles.
The guests: everyone couldn’t wait to get M and C married!! The wedding party was pumped, the fam was overjoyed. Also, the dance floor? Poppin. The couple had said in their inquiry that they were big party people and by golly, they were not joking.
Take me back! Oh wait, I can because this is a lil look at the gallery.
Here’s what M and C’s first inquiry to me —
“We’re big social people so there'll be 150 guests and 8 bridesmaids and groomsmen. The whole goal of the day is a fun and colorful dance party with all our favorite people in the world…We love a more documentary and candid type style, it feels like you capture the day in motion and the day doesn't stop to get the posed photos (though we do want some of those :)”
M and C’s review after the wedding:
“Working with Juliette was nothing short of a DREAM! She helped with everything from creating the timeline to aesthetic ideas and really helped the day run smoothly. Truly don’t know how we would’ve done it without her. Such a kind and encouraging presence on the wedding day and throughout planning! Whether it was bringing us dessert because we hadn’t gotten a chance to sneak over to the table yet or reminding us of the pic we wanted to make sure we got- truly truly fantastic!!! Not to mention just how beautiful the photos are! We could not be more in love! Such a quick turnaround so we could reminisce on the honeymoon. Juliette is a GEM!!!”
I love what I do, and the people I meet :)
Summer at The Munro
Summer at the Munro: A Bridal Session in the Summer
Our story starts with Gina, our bride, preparing for her wedding day.
However, there were so many dresses to choose from, she was unsure where to start.
Choosing a dress proved to be a difficult task for Gina….
Some were delicate & unique…
others felt sleek and stylish…
But the perfect one hung on the hook, waiting to be seen.
Tres magnifique.
Each detail was delicately selected by Gina and her fiancee, Mike.
From her favorite flowers, Mike’s love for chess (and for Gina)…Everything had a purpose.
“The time has come!” Gina exclaimed.
While we can show you the photos, how about you watch a little video…
The magnificent folks to made this come alive:
Venue: @events_at_munro
Co host: @emmabausophoto
Co-host/Photography: @juliettezygpicturestudios
Rentals: @sherentsvintage
Florals: @alchemybloomsfd
Gowns: @stellasbridal
Catering: @morostable
Linens: @lizschaircoverrentals
Venue Illustration: @thearchitectsdaughter_ny
Jewelry: @westandcompanydiamonds
HMU/Content Creator: @annierotko
Asbury Park Wedding In Springtime
Elena and Jarred had the perfect wedding weekend in Asbury Park, New Jersey. Five minutes away from the ocean, the couple celebrated their love in style and with friends from all over the country.
Elena and Jarred reached out to me about a year before their wedding day, and after the first call I pretty much knew they were going to be the coolest couple to work with, and I was totally right.
Here’s a list of reasons why this wedding was awesome:
It was my first out-of-state wedding ever!
I was going to be focusing on photography, while my husband focused on videography.
I was so excited to have full creative control and the fact that Elena and Jarred trusted me so much was really humbling.
We stayed about 5 minutes from the ocean at Asbury Park boardwalk, and we were able to get a lot of really lovely footage and photos for their gallery.
Everyone at the wedding was so kind and excited. I immediately felt how loved the couple was with every event.
Elena decided to chop her hair during the reception (wait to see the photos omg)
The dance parties were INSANE. Talk about a pumped up dance floor.
Now look at their photos already!
VENDORS:
Welcome Dinner Venue: The Laylow
Getting Ready Space: The Asbury Hotel
Catering/Venue: The English Manor
Photography/Videography: Juliette Zyg Picture Studio
Video Assistant/Audio Tech: Teddy Brill
Florals: Rose of Sharon Florist
Hair: Colored By Cole - Nicole Pesce
Makeup: Bridal Makeup By Kat
Bride's Dress: Serendipity Bridal Collections
The Night Before
Elena and Jarred wanted to have a chill evening with friends and family the day before the wedding - they chose to have it at a speakeasy in Asbury Park. When Teddy and I walked in, we had to ask for the password to get in, and the vibes were immaculate.
Elena and Jarred were able to sneak away for about 10 minutes to get some pre-wedding day photos, in addition to some group photos they weren’t sure they would have time for the next day.
The Wedding Day
About five minutes from the ocean, Elena and Jarred prepped for their wedding day! In the morning, Teddy and I decided to head to the Asbury Park boardwalk and get some footage and photos of the ocean to put into their final video and gallery.
After, we met Elena in her room and the day started full speed ahead.
When Teddy and I arrived at the The English Manor, everything was coming together perfectly. Having a tour of the manor the day before, we had a good idea on where we can do the first looks Elena and Jarred without guests seeing them, as well as where we can do portraits.
stunning omg
Elena and Jarred wanted to do their first look and vows in the garden.
I (not surprisingly) sobbed the entire time.
this is my favorite compilation from the day
Elena decided to surprise Jarred but cutting her hair halfway through the reception, right before the cake cutting.
Needless to say Jarred loved her new look (as we all did)
Now watch their photos come to life in their wedding film!
Photo by Elena’s wonderful bridesmaid :)
Based in Upstate New York, I specialize in weddings, lifestyle and brand photo + video far and wide.
My interest in documenting love stories began when I was a teenager, but photography has been in my life since I was about 8-years-old (my pet chickens were lovely models back then).
My favorite part of being at a wedding is documenting real emotions and approaching a day as a professional fly-on-the-wall. My goal is to always make sure you are comfortable, excited and living in the present.
When I’m not editing or at a wedding, I’m probably watching Parks and Rec, making pizza or hanging out with my husband.
JZPS PHOTO
GALLERY
JZPS VIDEO COLLECTION
Summertime Ithaca Farmers Market Wedding
Jolan and Ben had their summer wedding at the Ithaca Farmer’s Market in Ithaca, NY surrounded by close family and friends, and made it their way.
I don’t think there’s anything better than a perfect summer wedding on the lake. Ben and Jolan had an intentional wedding day that focused on being with family and friends, and sharing quiet moments together.
VENDORS:
Venue: Ithaca Farmers Market
Catering: Beacon Events and Catering
Photographer: Juliette Zyg Picture Studios
Florals: Plenty of Posies
Desserts: Ithaca Bread Works
Hair: Mavin Hair & Beautty
Bride's Dress: Lulu’s
Band: Silver Arrow Band
ABOUT JULIETTE…
Based in Upstate New York, I specialize in weddings, lifestyle and brand photo + video far and wide.
My interest in documenting love stories began when I was a teenager, but photography has been in my life since I was about 8-years-old (my pet chickens were lovely models back then).
My favorite part of being at a wedding is documenting real emotions and approaching a day as a professional fly-on-the-wall. My goal is to always make sure you are comfortable, excited and living in the present.
When I’m not editing or at a wedding, I’m probably watching Parks and Rec, making pizza or hanging out with my husband.
Have a question? Want to schedule a call or learn more about the process?
Should We Do An Engagement Session?
This blog post answers the question so many newly engaged couples have — an engagement session is included in my package…should we do it?
If you’re reading this, you’re either:
A) Engaged (yay!), and may have seen how engagement sessions are included in photographers’ packages.
2) You’re not engaged, but you’re interested to find out this inner circle wedding thing called an engagement session.
Welcome, regardless, to my Ted Talk about Engagement Sessions.
What is an engagement photo session?
An engagement session is a photoshoot before you get married (thanks, captain obvious). Usually, the photos you take during this session are used for your wedding save the dates, wedding invitations, and your wedding website, but are not limited to putting as your phone background or posting constantly on social media.
This session can be as long as you’d like, but they normally last 1-2 hours at a location of your choosing.
What’s the point of an engagement session?
I suggest my couples do engagement session for three reasons:
Reason #1: Get to know each other
It can be overwhelming to meet your photographer on the day of the wedding, so engagement sessions are a perfect way to get to get to know your photographer and for them to get to know you!
Being able to see how a couple interacts with each other, what jokes make them laugh, what posing prompts they really enjoy, or if they like PDA, etc. The goal is to get comfortable in front of the camera!
Reason #2: The chance to get comfy with the camera
Being comfortable in front of a camera is easier said than done. Some people are naturals and some are camera shy. Doing an engagement session allow couples to experience the photo prompts they may have on their wedding day but with much less going on - so it’s a perfect time to practice and get comfortable!
Plus, you don’t get engaged everyday, and it’s fun little excuse to plan a date night.
Reason #3: The chance to be camera ready
Once the wedding day arrives, we have met in person, we all know each other, and we can also create some of those cute engagement photos! You and your family/friends have seen a full gallery of photos, and you already can’t wait to see what’s next. Most importantly, you feel confident and comfortable in front of a camera while you get to marry a really cool human.
“We’re SO awkward. What if it’s a trainwreck?”
I don’t believe it one bit !!!!
What if I told you all the couples in the above photos said the same thing? Because they did, but they look adorable. With the right photographer giving you prompts that help you forget that you’re being photographed, that awkwardness melts right away.
I always recommend seeing these photos as an excuse to plan a perfect date, so you’re doing the things you love most, with the person you love most.
Thinking of a photo session this way makes everything look more natural, and you won't feel like you're not just posing for the camera.
Clever secretly planned this session to propose to his high school sweetheart, Niamh at Wildflower Creek Farm during prime bloom time because Niamh loves flowers.
He had reached out to me a few weeks prior to a Pick and Pose event for couples, and wanted to know if he’d be able to do something similar but in the morning so they can spend the day celebrating, and for a little longer. Clever had said he wasn’t sure when he wanted to pop the question during the session, but when he felt like the time and place were right, he would give a signal (see the first image hehe).
After a very teary and happy engagement, the two frolicked around the field and spent the rest of the day celebrating :)
Van and Alex are both are filmmakers and artists, so they wanted an engagement session that matched that vibe. They chose Ithaca to do their session and started at Angry Mom Records to look at vinyls and the huge display of VHS tapes. After, we stopped at the local arthouse cinema, Cinemapolis, where they purchased some popcorn and we hung around the hallways in the coolest light (see above) for some fun vibey shots.
What do we do at this session?
Let me roll out the list of fun things to do on your engagement shoot:
- Grab a cup of coffee/tea at your favorite coffee shop
- Going to a museum of a shared interest
- Going to the farmers market or botanical gardens
- Having a little pizza picnic where you first met (or at your wedding venue)
- Bar hopping
- A friendly game of tennis or pickleball
- Picking flowers at a flower farm
- Bike riding or rollerblading at a local park
- Cooking at home or at a cozy Airbnb
- Thrifting
- Hiking your fave trail
- Making snowmen outside (hot chocolate optional)
So what now?
think about the season you’d want your photos to take place
think about the location you’d want to go
do you want a more nature-y scene or cityscape?
what’s your favorite things to do together?
From there, we’ll schedule your session depending on your favorite month/season, and plan an activity you both enjoy and look forward to doing.The goal is to make you look forward to this and to celebrate your whimsical, unique, weird little love :)
Visit your favorite library or bookshop!
“I also like that most of your photos seem organic. They're still capturing people in the best light while seeming natural. That's what's really important to me because I want everything to be as genuine and natural as possible (but with some artistic editing to make it look better ha)”
let’s ride a luggage cart!
“We love a mix of documentary and editorial styles—absolutely adore the candid, in-the-moment memories, and also appreciate some direction with posing”
have a drink at your fav bar!
get ice cream :)
cuddle up!
take photos on a picnic!
hang out and have fun together!
make a silly face!
have a picnic in the park!
get engaged in a super beautiful spot!
play arcade games!
“I feel like your photos really reflect what I want out of photography - they capture real moments and don't feel posed or stiff. I love the documentary style, romantic vibe.”
go on a drive!
sit by the lake at sunset
take a walk
have a little bevvy!
shop for records!
“I can FEEL the yearning in your pictures and I am here for it. I read way too many romance novels and I want my pictures to feel like I am in one.”
sit in a beautiful garden!
be adorable :)
Have a question? Want to get in touch? Ready to plan your session??
— Meet Your Photographer —
I’m Juliette and I’m an Upstate New York photographer and videographer specializing in weddings, lifestyle and branding.
My interest in photography started by taking portraits of my pet chickens as a 6 year-old, and has since then expanded into documenting cinematic and nostalgic shenanigans and stories for humans nationwide.
I’ll tell you to sing silly songs to each other during your session, or proclaim 100 times about how good you both look and show you sneaks during each set of photos.
When I’m not editing, you can find me watching The Great British Bake Off, making food with my husband, Teddy, or playing the Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. :)
engaged now, but planning the big day?
Check out my wedding photo gallery
is cinema more your vibe?
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Intimate Summer Elopement at Dinosaur BBQ
a look at the photography and videography of jess and vincent’s intimate reception at Dinosaur BBQ in Syracuse last summer.
the photography and videography of an Upstate New York elopement.
it’s about yam time.
Jess and Vincent are very cool if you didn’t know that already.
You may have seen their photos on my website a lot because it was one of my favorite weddings from 2022. Plus, it was one of the first weddings I did both photo and video for!
A little backstory
Before partying it up at Dinosaur BBQ, Jess and Vincent had a small ceremony and reception in New York City prior to the celebration at Syracuse. Before that, I was luck enough to document their love at an engagement session at the Johnson Museum of Art on a chilly January day.
During the session, we chatted about how Jess and Vincent met, what they were planning for the wedding, and explored the Johnson Museum of Art and the Cornell campus.
One reason I love offering engagement sessions to the couples whose wedding I’m photographing or filming —
Engagement sessions give myself and my couples a fun time to get aquatinted with each other before the wedding day.
I get to see how the couple interacts with each other: what jokes make them laugh or poses they really enjoy, if they like a lot of PDA or a smol amount.
My couple benefits too (obvi) - They get to know me and my personality, they get used to being in front of the camera (you don’t get engaged everyday), and they get a fun little excuse to plan a date night. Like, how can you not love this.
Then, once the wedding day arrives, we have at least met in person once (especially if they are out of state or a bit further away) and we both go into the wedding day knowing exactly what we want - to document the big and little things.
Wholesome.
the wedding
!!
the wedding !!
After their NYC ceremony, Jess, Vincent and I got on a call to discuss what the plan was for their Syracuse ceremony. They initially said in their inquiry form:
“We’re envisioning it to be a more relaxed, chill night where we can celebrate our love with the people we love most, have some good BBQ, and have a ton of fun together!”
And dang it we were going to do that.
So, we decided that we would do an hour at Franklin Park for their couples photos, and then go full into party mode once we got to Dinosaur BBQ in Syracuse.
AND THEN….
wait wait wait…
I grabbed this little photo before their entrance :)
ok back to the party!
PARTY TIME.
Jess and Vincent entered the party dancing to Music For a Sushi Restaurant by Harry Styles (THE BEST SONG AHHH) and the had the most lit reception at Dinosaur BBQ, dancing, eating, and celebrating with some of the coolest people.
one of the great parts about their afternoon, was how *relaxed* it was.
there wasn’t any pressure to perform for the camera. they were authentically themselves, enjoying their friends and family and dancing to some really good songs.
that to me, is a perfect wedding day :)
And now, you can watch their film to truly relive their day,
by watching their film.
VENDORS
Photographer/Videographer - JULIETTE ZYG PICTURE STUDIOS
Photographer/Videographer Assistant - MARK FEOCCO
Venue - DINOSAUR BBQ
Florals - AFFECTIONS FLORAL DESIGN
Hair & Makeup - BLOOM ON WILLOW
Bride’s Dress - THE BRIDE PROJECT
DJ - TORGO ENTERTAINMENT
Based in Upstate New York, Juliette specializes in weddings, lifestyle and brand photo + film for humans far and wide.
Her interest in the documentation of the human experience has lead her into becoming something of a professional third wheel/hype woman/paparazzi/for her clients.
She’ll probably cry during your ceremony, or tell you how amazing you look at your session or wedding.
When she’s not at a wedding or editing, she’s probably watching Parks and Rec, watering her plants, or hanging out with her cats.
The Wedding Flatlay Guide
From vow books and ribbon, to Polaroids and fruit, this is the ultimate guide on how to pick and prep the items to give your photographer/videographer on the morning of your wedding day.
You have probably seen this style of photography in commercial catalogs like Crate & Barrel, Essie, Target, Ulta, or even in books - but in wedding photography/videography it’s used as a way to document items you are using to get ready for your wedding day, in an aesthetically pleasing way.
Grab a cup of tea, coffee or a martini and let’s chat.
WHAT IS A WEDDING FLATLAY?
A flatlay is all the small details that tell your love story that are laid out in an oh-so-artistic fashion to be photographed or filmed.
It could be as simple as your shoes, jewelry, invitations and vow books, or it can be more intricate and include polaroids, past letters, ticket stubs, postcards, or any tokens from throughout your relationship.
WHEN DO YOU PHOTOGRAPH FLATLAYS?
Most commonly, photographers and videographers photograph/film your flatlay items in the early hours of the wedding.
That way, we have easy access to the items you’ll be wearing (jewelry, shoes, ties, vows) or using (flasks, handkerchiefs, florals, etc).
On wedding days, I usually like to give myself 15-20 minutes to cook up a cute little flatlay moment with whatever items you’d like to include with a background that fits the vibe of your day (rustic vibes = wooden tones, sleek mod = black and white tiled floor, etc).
It also takes a little prodding to see how each item can interact with the space and other objects, and I try to get a few shots that include everything you’ve given me.
WHAT SHOULD BE PHOTOGRAPHED?
rings (heirlooms, wedding bands, engagement ring)
jewelry
vow books/letters/old love letters
flowers (you can ask your florist to put some aside for the flatlay)
invitations/RSVPs/stationary
your shoes for the day
tie/bowtie
cufflinks
perfume/cologne
handkerchiefs/pocket scarves
watch
ADDITIONAL CUTE THINGS TO ADD:
polaroids from throughout your relationship
ribbon
old love letters
both of your favorite books
ticket stubs from concerts or movies you’ve attended
postcards from places you’ve both visited
plant leaves
fruits and veggies (oranges, lemons, radishes, dried fruit)
vintage cups/saucers
tea bags or coffee beans
disco balls
ribbons
flask
DO I HAVE TO INCLUDE ALL THE ITEMS LISTED?
Absolutely not - you can pick and choose what you’d like to be photographed, and it even helps to look up examples of what you’d like featured.
If you find that you don’t really want to have anything photographed or filmed, that’s ok too!
If you’d rather have more documentation of the getting ready process, or just don’t find a need for these photos, tell your photographer and/or videographer.
ok, we kind of like the idea…
HOW TO PREP YOUR FLATLAY ITEMS
If you are planning to have your photographer/videographer do some flatlays, here are some tips to help you out.
Place all the items you want photographed/filmed into a shoe box or packing box. You can do this the morning of or the day before. That way, you aren’y doing a scavenger hunt while the hairstylist is running after you with a curling iron trying to finish your hair (not a true story). This will alleviate stress on the morning of your wedding!
Ask your florist to put aside a few flowers for your photographer to play with. Sometimes we like to take off petals, or remove flowers from the stems so we can see them easier on the image.
Don’t be afraid to include unique items; if you’re really into plants bring a few plant cuttings. If you’re both bookies, bring your favorite books. If you both love Star Wars, bring R2D2 (jk, but maybe a sticker).
Be intentional with the items you choose. Don’t think you have to do what your sister or friend did for their wedding - start with finding 2-5 items you would like photographed, or think sums up your relationship.
THE LATE NIGHT FLATLAY
Perhaps one of my favorite detail elements!
In the morning, we’re photographing the things you’re going to use (shoes! perfume! jewelry! etc!) but then the night hits…
This is to showcase the evening details - your dinner menu, custom napkins, fave desserts, and more little things! I usually plan to do these if I’m finished with dinner early, there’s a lull in the evening, or I want to give folks a break from photography during the dancing portion.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOING A WEDDING FLATLAY —
Of course, it’s important to remember the bigger parts of a wedding day (like getting married or partying with all your favorite homeskillets), but it’s also nice to remember the smaller details that start off the day. You may have spent money on some of the details, or you may have heirlooms from family members, and I think it’s important to see those details.
Being handed a little box of goodies at the beginning of the day is so exciting - this time helps me center myself and gives me a chance to get the creative juices flowing.
Lastly, my advice: the more personal, unique and detailed the items you pick are, the more memorable the photos turn out.
ABOUT JULIETTE…
Based in Upstate New York, Juliette specializes in weddings, lifestyle and brand photo + film for humans far and wide.
Her interest in the documentation of the human experience has lead her into becoming something of a professional third wheel/hype woman/paparazzi/for her clients.
She’ll probably cry during your ceremony, or tell you how amazing you look at your session or wedding.
When she’s not at a wedding or editing, she’s probably watching Parks and Rec, watering her plants, or hanging out with her cats.
Photo by the marvelous Kate Elaine Photography!
NEW HERE?
Let me show you around!
CHECK OUT THE PHOTO GALLERY
CRY OR DANCE YOUR WAY THROUGH THE WEDDING FILM COLLECTION
Flash Photography at Your Wedding? HECK YES.
a blog to showcase the different ways to incorporate camera flash on your wedding day, welcome dinner or engagement session - and how it create unique photos that double as artwork for your walls.
— Blog was updated on June 25, 2026 —
CLASSIC. ELEVATED. CHAOTIC.
The flash aesthetic is one that has been super popular over the last few years (and also since the beginning of photography in general lol) - it makes images pop, and has a classic feel, like your parents photo album is coming to life.
Though it can be blinding, it’s a vibe.
I’ve had couples who ask me:
“when do other couples or weddings usually use flash?” or “is it weird to use flash all day?”
My answer is this - if you like the look, we can use it literally whenever feels good, or when I need to. If the spaces are darker, I’ll probably use it to make sure that everything is lit properly. If you want getting ready photos with flash or editorial style couples photos, let’s do it!
There isn’t a right or wrong way do use it - these photos are for you; to hang on your wall like art, or look back on knowing THAT’S what you wanted.
So now, without further ado, here is the JZPS list that showcases my favorite flash photos and how to use it in your photos (engagement, welcome dinner, wedding day, etc)
(Cue Flash by Queen)
DETAILS
I love jazzing up detail shot with some flash. Depending on the vibes, it can elevate the image
For the examples above, my bride wanted moody fun, and editorial-style photos of her details (each element was very carefully picked out, thrifted and executed). The shot of the cake and the dress are off-camera flash, which means I put a light away from my camera to get a little more drama for the photos. The flatlay on the right is direct flash since I wanted more of a spotlight of the details.
PORTRAITS
These are all different ways of using flash - whether it was to add a little light while Katie stood in direct sun, lighting a darker space to make Puja’s red dress pop, or just add a little bit of light to the image.
Each person in these photos really embraced flash and to have their photos feel a certain way - they wanted classic bridal portraits or candid moments, but with a little bit of spunk.
COUPLES PORTRAITS
Don’t get me wrong, I love a scenic, natural light moment, but sometimes….Sometimes the moody flash moments are literally the best. All of these photos are a bit of a different style because each couple has a different aesthetic. Remember how I was saying that your photos don’t have to look like everyone else’s? These are taken during the wedding day with 5 minutes allotted for portraits, the welcome dinner 10 minute sneak away time that I like to do, or at an engagement session where we stole a luggage cart. I love how different these aesthetics are because they match each couple perfectly. :)
WEDDING PARTY
The classic shot of all of the bridesmaids and groomsmen standing in a line is industry standard for a reason - everyone loves seeing the outfits, the faces, and details. But…when a couple says they want something different….I really wanted this photo to feel like a classic bar shot where everyone was having a conversation and then my camera went off and they all stopped talking and stared at me.
This shot took about 5-10 minutes to pose, and the shots with direct flash were my favorite because of how classic it looked.
Introductions
Perhaps one of the most obvious places I’ll use my flash - the party is starting, everyone is pumped and you can’t wait to dance your tooshies off. I love the vibes for this when the flash is called for.
CUTTING OF THE CAKE
For me, the look is inspired the photos that you’ll find in your grandparents’ photo album from 1950 or 1960 - during their cake cutting especially. Usually the venue is a little darker, the vibes are for partying, and I love having a bright moment to showcase the chaos of the cake cutting.
DANCING
As much as I love getting natural-light vibey photos, nothing hits like a good flash on the dance floor capturing Uncle Bob doing the worm or cute group photos of your cousins. Absolutely classic.
THE RECEPTION OUTFIT CHANGE
Katheryn is adorable. I mean look at this photo. When she did her dress change during the reception, I knew I was going to use flash - it was a party, she had fun putting it on with her friends and it fit the party-vibe perfectly.
I hope this post inspired you to do your wedding the way you want!
(and also to hire a photographer who can incorporate flash)
Your wedding photos are yours forever, not for Pinterest or Instagram - they are pieces of art to hang on your wall, and reminisce over 50 years from now, with wrinkled hands, full hearts, and the feelings fresh when you revisit your album.
about juliette
Based in Upstate New York, Juliette specializes in weddings, lifestyle and brand photo + film for humans far and wide.
She’ll probably cry during your ceremony, or tell you how amazing you look at your session or wedding.
When she’s not at a wedding or editing, she’s probably watching Parks and Rec, watering her plants, or hanging out with her cats.
Stalk my work!
Check out the wedding photo collection if you’d like to see more.
A nostalgic Skaneateles weekend spend exploring the lake, a wedding at the Sherwood Inn, and dancing so hard you forget the cake cutting.