Aly Kuler studied wedding photography at The New York Institute of Photography. He has developed his skills and style by attending photography workshops about wedding photography, fashion, and lighting techniques. He became a member of PPA Professional Photographers of America in 2017.
His success is defined by capturing the true spirit and unparalleled personalities of the subjects that he photographs. His style has been described as highly creative and enjoyable while maintaining an engaging, yet relaxed environment. He strives to create a calm setting for his subjects.
He embraces every opportunity to tell a story photographically.
My jaw is on the floor with how beautiful these photos came out! I loved looking back and reliving every single moment. I laughed, I cried and smiled so hard. You have such an unique and creative vision! – Kiara Z
How did you get into wedding photography?
I used to work as a graphic designer at a local magazine, but photography has always been my favorite hobby. I love to photograph people and that is how I began was my wedding photography journey. I started photographing couples in love and Engagement sessions. It made me fall in love even more with weddings, especially seeing two individuals caring to capture their love for one another through photos. After seeing my work, people started hiring me to photograph their weddings. I was very excited for it but felt like I needed to educate myself a little more before taking on such a big responsibility. I decided to enroll in the New York institute of photography to learn more about wedding photography.
Do you have a recent favorite photo that you have taken? Tell us how you took it and why you like it?
Every photo I take is special in a way, however my all-time favorite photo I call “expect the unexpected”. It was taken at a recent summer wedding of a groomsmen ripped pants. I like this photo because it was captured naturally of him and everyone around him. The way each person surrounding him reacted made it extra special. I entered the WPS Excellence Award contest using this photo and won, which made it more special.
What really gets you emotional when you’re shooting a wedding?
Weddings in general are full of many wonderful and emotional moments. The one moment that always gets me emotional is when the bride walks down the aisle. The look on the groom’s face is speechless. Another emotional moment for me is when the father sees his daughter for the first time as a bride. It is a dream for every parent to see their daughter all grown up and ready to start a new chapter in her life. I always do my best to capture these two moments in a very natural way.
How do you put a couple at ease before and during their big day?
I always love to meet with my clients in-person before the wedding and it’s always a bonus if I do the engagement session for them, and that’s because I get to work with them before the big day. I always have a two-minute conversation before the shoot with the couple if I’ve never done the engagement or an in-person meeting beforehand. I try to make them feel relaxed and ease their nerves. I always remind them to enjoy themselves as if there’s nobody around, I also recommend staying casual as if they were asking a random person in the street to take a picture for them on their phone. I always ask them to not freeze when I pose them but to interact and enjoy themselves.
What is it about being a wedding photographer you love?
I’m an extrovert person. I love to be around many people and get to know them. I like the energy, emotions, joy, and celebrations on a wedding day. I love to go through the whole process from A-Z. By end of the day, I feel like I was on a trip. I love it.
What is it about being a wedding photographer that you don’t love so much?
Hmm, I think since I started wedding photography my social life has changed. I lost my weekends to spend with my friends and family. I’m not married yet, and I think that I have to marry a photographer to match my schedules lol.
If you could change one thing about the wedding industry what would it be?
Taking photography more serious. Many people lack the skills and techniques and call them selves photographers because they owna a camera. Couples are often hire someone who is a photographer part time, they get a nd give very cheap price and end up regretting it later.
What photography kit do you have in your bag & what is your favourite?
I have two Nikon D750
Tamron 70-200mm 2.8
Nikon 24-70mm 2.8
Sigma 35mm art 1.4
Sigma 50mm art 1.4
Sigma 14-24mm art 2.8
Nikon 105mm 2.8
6 Godox flashes
2 Godox AD200
My fave: it’s hard to say just one is my favorite but I use 35mm all the time on one camera and I change between 50mm and 70-200 most of the day
The rest are for specific uses.
What is your favourite part of the day?
To be honest, the entire day is my favorite. I love shooting the details and the bride getting ready and the portraits and the ceremony and the reception as well.
Aly was a dream to work with! From the very beginning he was so eager to accommodate our needs and desires. He and his crew were super professional and helped us take all the different kinds of pictures we wanted – both more serious and fun and silly ones.
What tips would you give a couple on choosing a wedding photographer?
They should truly look for a photographer who sutis what they need regardless of price, closeness of the photographer or because of 5-10 good pictures in their portfolio. It’s one big day in your life, there’s no repeat. So choose carefully and look for reviews and mostly full wedding albums. Any amateur photographer can capture good photographs when everything is going good. Only pros can capture good photographs even when everything is going wrong.
Why do you think couples choose you?
I believe I am chosen based on my work and style. I love to make a good connection with my clients and not just turn up and take pictures. They always love my smile, its key to smile during the day all the time and when you meet them before the wedding. It’s the most special day in their life and they wont like someone who’s sad or serious during the day.
How do you relax when you’re not shooting weddings?
Honestly, I never take a break from wedding photography. But when I decide to relax, I go on short vacations.
What are you looking forward to and why?
I always look forward to become better and better and expand my work and maybe even teach in the future.
Visit Just Aly Kuler’s Wedding Photography Website