Top 50 Finalists

We are incredibly pleased to announce a selection of talented wedding photographers from around the globe as our Top 50 finalists for WPPI and Rangefinder’s 30 Rising Stars of Wedding Photography 2024. These photographers represent the next exciting generation of storytellers and bring a fresh and unique style to wedding photography. Their stories evoke emotion that resonates with the viewer. 

Chosen from many hundreds of exceptional applicants, these fine photographers stood out for their technical proficiency and ability to push boundaries with their perspectives and post-processing skills. We are excited to showcase these photographers as 30 Rising Star finalists! 

Join Us at WPPI

We will announce and honor the winners of our twelfth edition of 30 Rising Stars live at WPPI at The Mirage in Las Vegas, March 3-7. In addition to celebrating the achievement of our 30 Rising Stars, you can attend sessions presented by some of our past Rising Stars, current finalists and judge, including: 

Andre Brown – 2020  | Caroline Tran – 2012 | John Branch IV – 2021 

Elisabetta Redaelli – 2020 | Petronella Lugemwa – 2018  | Phylicia Willis – 2021  

Darren and Shamakia Williams – 2024 Finalists | Susan Stripling – 2024 Judge | Hiram Trillo – 2013 

INTRODUCING THE FINALISTS!

Now, we invite you to immerse yourself in gorgeous imagery and edited excerpts from our finalists’ submissions.

Adventure and Vow

(Traci Edwards and William Young)

How would you describe your photographic style?

“I focus on elements that a movie director may deem important (the in-between, scene setters, emotive moments), what the client values (portraits, special captures of moments), and what a photographer seeks (composition, good light, and more). For me, elopements are about immersing yourself in love for each other and the outdoors. I enjoy capturing images that embody that tone.”

Website | Instagram

Anna Sauza Photography

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“Since I started my brand and independent business as a full-time wedding photographer, I knew I would never stop learning. My goal back then was to start shooting weddings on film. Over the past two years, I have been able to incorporate this type of photography that I love so much into my wedding coverages.”

Website | Instagram

Autumn Jordan

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“After losing my job mid-pandemic, I decided to pursue wedding photography with reckless abandon. The previous fall, I had photographed two weddings for friends and realized that being a wedding photographer was truly my dream job. Since then, I’m grateful to have collaborated with nearly 50 couples who have put their entire trust in me and my process. It still blows my mind that people invite me and my 8 cameras to roll up to their wedding, cry alongside them as they say their vows, and dance with them all night with a camera in hand.”

Website | Instagram

Brjánn Batista Bettencourt

(3B Photography)

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“Stepping away from weddings and focusing on other work has significantly contributed to my overall growth. It allows me to bring new experiences back with me on a wedding day. Whether it’s shooting an editorial assignment or even capturing images for my own artistic fulfillment, I believe it’s always important to pursue and chase that feeling that made me pick up a camera in the first place. Almost 100% of the time, that happens when I’m simply exploring the world around me and creating intentional-unintentional images.”

Website | Instagram

Brooke Arte Studio

(Brooke Michalski)

How would you describe your client experience?

“Let’s be honest; weddings can be stressful. I offer my clients as much practical support as possible. I provide all my couples with practical planning resources and make it a point to meet with them before their wedding day. Throughout this process, I delve into their core values, explore family dynamics, and understand their individual visions for their dream day. Weddings are inherently creative endeavors, and my experience as an art teacher has equipped me with the skills to work with a wide range of personalities, gently empowering them to show up as their authentic selves.”

Website | Instagram

Bruno Garcez

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“Embarking on my wedding photography career later in life brought a wealth of experience and perspective to my work. My unconventional start allowed for a unique approach, and my growth has been swift and substantial. I’ve remained unwavering in my dedication to honing my craft, tirelessly working to uncover my distinctive style. Through this journey, I’ve made a meaningful impact and carved out a prominent digital presence within the wedding community.”

Website | Instagram

Claudia Takes Photos

(Claudia Robson)

How would you describe your client experience?

“I am a huge empath. I feel everything around me—the emotions, the unspoken words, the body language. Because of this, I shoot in a way that feels incredibly instinctual to me and varies hugely from client to client. A soft-spoken, nervous bride needs more care and tenderness from me. An outspoken, expressive bride needs more energy and a display of confidence from me. I will always value making a client feel good rather than doing anything to get the shot. When a bride and groom (and their family, friends, and guests) feel comfortable with your presence, the propensity for authentic, honest, and intimate interactions and moments increases hugely.”

Website | Instagram

Couplet Photography

(Agata Grzaba)

How would you describe your photographic style?

“With a background in documentary photography, I tend to focus on moments that feel authentic because I believe that natural photographs are most meaningful to the couple. While weddings feature many design details and fashion elements, providing a great opportunity to capture objects and people in the most aesthetically pleasing way, like what we see in magazines. I hope that both documentary and editorial styles shine through in my work.”

Website | Instagram

Daniela Gutierrez Photography

Is there anything else you’d like to add that we haven’t asked?

“I am very passionate about everything I do. Ever since I was little, I took pictures of everything and everywhere. It’s amazing to see that my passion has become my everyday work. My signature statement is “In love with love,” and that is truly what my job is about—capturing love stories through my lens and giving my clients memories they will always remember.”

Website | Instagram

DSW Photography

(Darren & Shamakia Williams)

How would you describe your client experience?

“Our client experience involves building a bond with our couples. We make an effort to understand what our couples envision for their wedding day, and based on their desires, we strive to bring their vision to life. We identify what they love most about our work and draw from that creative aspect. As a married couple ourselves, we aim to document their wedding as if it were our own! Additionally, we believe in building long-lasting relationships with our clients that extend beyond their wedding day.”

Website | Instagram

Fabrizio Simoneen

Jesus Fabrizio and Simoneen Portill

How would you describe your photographic style?

“I like to describe my approach to photography and overall style with the term ‘affective photography.’ This refers to a photographic approach that places a great deal of emphasis on the emotional weight of a moment and the visual translation of that display of emotion through the lens. My photographic work has become as diverse as I am, ranging from an editorial outlook to a vision that showcases the informality of relationships. Through my work, I aim to create a language that stems from my own perception of life.”

Website | Instagram

Isle + Oak Photography

(Chris Grandy and Sam Rose)

How would you describe your photographic style?

“Over the years, our photography style has evolved into its current moody state. Smaller, more intimate, and unnoticed moments are our priority when documenting a wedding. Through our unique approach, we aim to showcase the relationship of shadows and light, illustrating how that relationship can be utilized in a storytelling manner to authentically and uniquely represent our couples. It is always our goal to lead with emotion, ensuring it’s the main driving force behind each and every image.”

Website | Instagram

Jess McDole Photo

How would you describe your photographic style?

“It’s a bit taboo, I guess, but I don’t believe the wedding should be about the photos; rather, the photos should be about the wedding. I love looking at beautiful, perfect portraits from others, or really amazing artsy double exposures or styled artsy sets (it’s all so inspiring), but I really resonate the most with those true moments that couldn’t be replicated, no matter what prompts I guided them with.”

Website | Instagram

Joshua Nunez Wedding Photographer

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“It has been a blessing since the very start of my journey in the photography world. I was helped and taught by the most amazing people as I began to learn and work my way into the wedding industry. They showed me that we are here to serve, that we should be grateful for the opportunity to create a visual legacy for couples who believe in our work. This is something I have come to understand more and more throughout the years”.

Website | Instagram

Juliana Noelle Jumper

How would you describe your client experience?

“My goal is to create images that honestly portray each couple or event, rather than conforming to preconceived notions of how a wedding day ‘should look.’ Being an introverted and sensitive person, I make an effort to guide my couples in a comfortable manner. I provide my industry experience and an empathetic touch to help my couples bring their envisioned wedding images to life.”

Website | Instagram

Karla Ortiz Weddings

How would you describe your client experience? 

“It is a unique, comfortable experience where communication, trust and a relaxed atmosphere predominate. I like to feel that my couples are relaxed, that they feel special for it being their big day, and above all, to support them in everything I can so that every moment of their wedding flows.” 

Website | Instagram

Kajade Photography

(Echo Kowalski)

How would you describe your photographic style?

“Born and raised in Hong Kong, whatever I capture through my viewfinder reflects my urban perspective. My past has significantly influenced my aesthetics, leading to a preference for editorial styles, the extensive use of low-key lighting, movements, and symmetrical compositions. While weddings may differ from the more controlled environments of editorial shoots, they offer numerous candid moments. I strive to embrace people and objects by presenting them in their best, yet honest, way.”

Website | Instagram

Kim Wilfriedsson

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“I noticed the biggest change in my work when I stopped comparing myself to fellow photographers and current trends. I live in a rather boring and flat area and would always feel discouraged seeing the beautiful landscapes, mountains, and beaches other photographers were able to work with. It took me some time to realize that I had to stop complaining, broaden my creative horizons, and create the best pictures I could without limiting myself or finding excuses in my location.”

Website | Instagram

King & Opal

(Mariah Naella)

How would you describe your client experience?

“I don’t even send out my Packages & Pricing deck until I’ve met with a couple over Zoom! The human/emotional aspect of this work is absolutely critical to providing the best value to couples I work with and maintaining my inspiration as a photographer. It is really important to me that we feel like an energetic fit for one another first and foremost because, of all their wedding vendors, I will be right there with them throughout a profoundly important and special time in their life.”

Website | Instagram

Koko King Photography

How would you describe your photographic style? 

“Emotional growth within the art of photographing weddings involves evolving into not just a skilled technician but also an empathetic and emotionally intelligent storyteller. It’s a journey of self-discovery, forging connections with others, and capturing the profound emotional moments that render each wedding distinctive and unforgettable. These learning experiences are ongoing and perpetually evolving. I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of this wonderful world.” 

Website | Instagram

Kristine and Charles

(Kristine Lopez and Charles Lopez)

How would you describe your photographic style?

“We prioritize honest, organic moments above all but believe there is also a time and place for gentle direction and guidance. Much of our direction on the day is based on our couples and their unique personalities and stories. We want our photos to reflect who they truly are, so we play off their vibe.”

Website | Instagram

Lara Onac

(Lara Enguita Cano)

How would you describe your photographic style?

“I create timeless photographs that honor real-life and soulful moments. I focus on the perfectly imperfect, offbeat moments that make the viewer feel something and embrace the unknowns of the day while helping people feel relaxed in front of the camera. I photograph how it feels, not what it looks like. Inspiration comes from the people, the light, the surroundings, and the emotions, but most importantly, from being present.”

Website | Instagram

Lens Stories

(Ionut Lucian Ianos)

How would you describe your photographic style?

“On a typical wedding day, my style is mostly photojournalistic, involving changes in angles and perspectives to tell a more comprehensive story. However, I am in love with noir photography, neo-noir, and chiaroscuro aesthetics—the sense of mystery and the impressionistic approach of photography. I always search for these kinds of frames throughout the event. This style truly thrills my heart, and I feel grateful that I can express myself through it.”

Website | Instagram

LIT Photography NI

(Lauren Chambers)

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“When I started with photography, I was recovering from postnatal depression after the birth of my daughter. I was socially anxious and scared to leave the house as a result of trauma. My camera became my shield and a reason to leave the house, capturing my children in the beautiful landscapes I’m surrounded by. I have two children with Autism, and my style of photography was born from capturing them during this time. I found the beauty in moments that were less than perfect and captured my amazing children exactly as they are, no posing or editing.”

Website | Instagram

Mariana Barbosa

How would you describe your photographic style?

“Something I consider a hallmark of my style is the significance of details; for me, they mean everything. From documenting the perfume the bride uses to the little chaos on the tables at dance time. I like to think that when the couple gets old and has grandchildren, they can go to the wedding archive and then run to the store and look for the same scent that her grandmother had when she said ‘I do’ to their grandfather. In the details, you realize how much love the couple put into their wedding, like the paper they chose for their invitations, the season, the venue—every single detail sets the course for the wedding. Because it’s all in the details.”

Website | Instagram

Marie Thibault

How would you describe your approach to post-production?

“I am always trying to reach the perfect result for my pictures. I want them to be timeless so that they can be seen in 50 years without being old fashioned. So, no big correction for me. I do not want to intervene too much. I just want to access a certain aesthetic (bright but not over-exposed, fresh and punchy, but especially not saturated, contrasted, but not hard). It is okay to see that time has passed, but I want them to keep their style and strength.”

Website | Instagram

Mati Photography

(Mati Machner)

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far. 

“My “why” centers around the deep connections I form with people and my unceasing curiosity for new stories.  As wedding and elopement photographers, we have the privilege of preserving one of the most significant days in people’s lives, and this responsibility shapes both our professional growth and personal development.” 

Website | Instagram

Michael Mann Photography

How would you describe your client experience?
“From the very first meeting I have with my couple, I want them to see me as a friend, someone they feel completely comfortable with. I help them build their timelines and give advice on things like preparation, locations, and I also provide around 80 fully edited images as highlights within 72 hours of their wedding. I even go a step further and provide my couples with a little surprise in the way of same-day prints while they are in their reception—something they can see and share with all their guests. Even though I have other couples throughout the year, I want my couple on their wedding day to feel as if they are my only couple.”

Website | Instagram

Nikolaichik Photo

(Natallia Nikolaichik)

How would you describe your photographic style?

“It’s real, a little bit documentary. I like to showcase my clients as the main heroes of their story in epic landscapes. A breathtaking place is never the most important; it’s always about the couple being there.”

Website | Instagram

Nous Nous Photo

(Carlos Ferreira)

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far. 

“I was very fortunate; I began by photographing a friend’s wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic and gained popularity. Subsequently, I started growing organically, capturing weddings in my own country. Eventually, I expanded my reach, traveling to shoot weddings in the United States, Europe, and Mexico. I also had some of my work featured in publications such as Vogue, Anti Bride, Harper’s Bazaar, and The Lane.” 

Website | Instagram

Parker's Pictures

(Parker Selman)

How would you describe your photographic style?

“My photography style is deeply rooted in intentionality, capturing moments with an approach that blends the experimental elements of analog photography with an eye for unique perspectives. Shooting on film encourages me to be deliberate and thoughtful with every click of the shutter, allowing me to revel in experimentation.”

Website | Instagram

Olivia Avers Photography

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“My focus shifted towards a documentary style when I began second shooting for other photographers. I wanted to capture moments they couldn’t during posed portraits, so I started looking for candid opportunities. The first wedding I shot completely in a documentary style changed my mindset from trying to be a ‘creative’ photographer to becoming an intentional photographer.”

Website | Instagram

Omar & Company

(Rose Omar)

How would you describe your photographic style?

“At the heart of my style lies the belief in authentic moments – candid shots that capture the raw, unscripted beauty of a wedding day. These unposed moments bring reality to life, speaking volumes and telling a true narrative of the day. I believe in connecting with my couples, making them feel at ease, and allowing their genuine selves to shine through. This human connection is palpable in my work, as each image tells a story not just of the moment but also of the person. I have refined an eye for detail, capturing the subtle and often overlooked elements that add depth and richness to each story.”

Website | Instagram

Radostina Boseva

How would you describe your photographic style?

“I aim to maintain authenticity and honesty in my work, adopting a minimal approach in post-production and avoiding stiff posing. Simultaneously, I strive for a beautiful aesthetic reminiscent of magazine quality. It’s worth mentioning that I’m obsessed with the ’90s, particularly the supermodel era, and appreciate the approach of photographers like Peter Lindbergh and Jacques Oliver towards women. I frequently shoot with film, and given the choice, I’d prefer my film camera over the digital one at almost any moment. Can we say that I’m a modern wedding film photographer with an editorial approach?”

Website | Instagram

Raphaëlle Granger

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far. 

“This was a crucial moment: understanding that photographs are the key to my loved ones’ hearts and souls. That was my ‘why’—that mysterious thing I’ve been chasing for my first three years in business. Since that moment, I’ve felt more aligned than ever with my style, my clients, and the overall experience I’ve crafted. Knowing what I want to give my couples has made me grow and fueled my inner fire.” 

Website | Instagram

Raini Rowell Photography

(Raini and Dave Rowell)

How would you describe your approach to post-production?
“We understand that being photographed can make people feel vulnerable, so we approach image selection with sensitivity. We carefully curate a selection of images that makes couples feel ‘seen’ and showcases their true beauty. Our goal is to craft a story that honestly reflects the experience and emotions of the day. When clients sit down to view their full gallery, we want them to look at the images and experience slightly contradictory feelings of ‘I can’t believe that’s us’ and ‘Wow, that is SO us.'”

Website | Instagram

Robin Goodlad

How would you describe your photographic style?

“The essence of my style lies in the synergy between a documentary approach, where I seek and capture the emotion, human stories, humor, and overall significance of the event, combined with a visualization of the beautiful potential created by the light and the landscape. I intertwine both elements to provide a genuine, beautiful narrative of every wedding.”

Website | Instagram

Rune Havn

How would you describe your photographic style?

“I want to be a friend they can trust and at the same time a professional photographer. The more work I put into my pre-wedding meetings, the more I am rewarded with amazing photos. My clients trust me, and my testimonials are quite positive. I am proud and thankful for that. During the shoot, I maintain a quiet presence. I provide instructions, but I also allow them to be free and express themselves. I prefer not to interrupt unless it’s necessary.”

Website | Instagram

Tash Busta Photography

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“When I first started, I felt I needed to be this huge extrovert to be a good photographer, but I’ve learned that to produce my best work, being authentically me and less extroverted actually benefits the couples way more. I’ve left the true extroverted photographers to find their ideal couples. I’m definitely much more focused and considered in the way I photograph weddings now.”

Website | Instagram

Timi Oshin Studios

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far. 

“In 2021, I relocated from Nigeria to the United Kingdom because of family, starting all over again. That season was daunted with fears of the unknown. I had to leave everything behind to start anew in a new country with a new client base. I soon realized that principles are global while application will remain local. So, I began marketing myself to my new environment using social media and online blogs. I fine-tuned my work with all my learning to reflect the kind of brand I wanted new customers to perceive. The sacrifices and workshops paid off. From giving out free engagement sessions to lowballing my rates (something I would not advise anyone to do), I gained traction. After my very first wedding in April 2022, nothing remained the same anymore. For the first time in my career, I felt seen and appreciated. I could see it took time, but the sacrifices were worth it.” 

Website | Instagram

The Photo Lab

(Devansh Rangani and Harsh Mehta)

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“We would like to describe our growth in terms of how far we have pushed ourselves beyond our comfort level. We strongly believe that growth is a combination of self-learning and self-improvement. We have learned from our peers, from our own mistakes, and improved in areas where we felt we were lagging behind.”

Website | Instagram

Translucent Photography

(Lucy McGoldrick)

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“Creative industries are ones where you’ll never ‘know everything.’ There’s always new technology, new techniques, and new situations—this is my biggest excitement within the business. Each new wedding, new client, and new visit to a venue with a different lighting situation pushes me and teaches me. I’m constantly improving because of this. I’m also very open to client feedback and take this on board to continue enhancing our client experience. Often, I attend workshops, both in-person and virtually, to firsthand learn different ways to raise my standard.”

Website | Instagram

Valery Velazquez

How would you describe your photographic style?

“I would define it as a mix of classic elegance with modern creativity. I mostly use natural light, so the images have a soft and natural tone. I appreciate capturing moments and emotions, as well as emphasizing elegance and sophistication. My focus is on the couple, but I also pay attention to everything happening around them to provide more context to the wedding. I believe details are essential in my style.”

Website | Instagram

Van Gachnang Photography

How would you describe your client experience?

“Finding out what’s important to my clients is crucial for me. If their highest priority is to commit their lives to each other in a beautiful location, I’ll make sure to highlight the landscape for them. If their main focus is having a super private day, I’ll do everything I can to vet the location and recommend the perfect time of day to achieve that. 

Website | Instagram

Vanessa Silva

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“I’ve been photographing in the ‘shadows’ for a while. I have been doing video for a long time, and a few photographers don’t like the idea that I, a videographer, can be photographing. So, I always felt that I just photographed part-time—I did a few weddings for friends or one or two elopements as I wasn’t a ‘photographer.’ I didn’t post photos as a photographer because I was a videographer. But this year, I went to a photography workshop with Pablo Laguia, and he asked me, ‘What the hell are you doing here?’ Because I am a photographer and I should own it. This was the start for me to affirm myself as a photographer.”

Website | Instagram

Venturing Vows

(Mikalynn Amos)

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“I began my photography journey as a nature and landscape photographer. I found my true calling as a photographer when I discovered adventure elopements. Having eloped myself in 2019, I haven’t photographed a traditional wedding since. My most effective tools for growth have always been practice and intentionality. Each year, I strive to find new ways to challenge myself, leading to my best work yet.”

Website | Instagram

Wyldbee Photography

(Sophie Alice Patterson)

How would you describe your photographic style?

“I aim to capture a wedding day like someone’s personal romantic-comedy. I focus on photographing moments that tell a story and evoke a feeling, with nostalgia playing a significant role. My approach involves mainly creative candids, turning ordinary moments into art. Nothing is posed or forced—just magical snippets captured throughout the day to discover the love in the chaotic whirlwind of an event. My primary goal is to showcase the authentic side of my couples, as if no one was there with a camera, just a fly on the wall, watching over.”

Website | Instagram

Yana Petrova

(John and Joseph Photography)

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“I’m always searching for new ways to be creative, go beyond my limits, and refine my style to give couples wedding photos they’ll treasure forever. I’ve grown as a wedding photographer because I’m deeply passionate about storytelling. I put my heart into every photo, capturing the real emotions and the unique beauty of each couple’s love story.”

Website | Instagram

Yidaki Studio

(Aurora Ceriani)

How would you describe your photographic style?

“Nostalgia is my signature style, as I craft cinematic scenes that transport you back in time. In my photography, each frame serves as a portal to the past—a timeless moment frozen in the present. It’s not just about capturing images; it’s about preserving emotions and stories that transport you to the very essence of the moment. I draw inspiration from the elegance of movies, where every frame is carefully composed to narrate a powerful story.”

Website | Instagram

Zeal Photography

(Christopher Akpokodje)

Tell us about your growth as a wedding photographer so far.

“I grasped the significance of open communication, setting the tone through sensory immersion, and tailoring my approach to resonate with each couple’s unique personality. Furthermore, my commitment to providing unparalleled experiences, such as surprising clients with Polaroid prints during the wedding breakfast, stands as a testament to my dedication. Reflecting on my journey, from the early days laden with gear to my current streamlined approach, I recognize that growth in wedding photography isn’t solely about accumulating equipment. It’s about refining one’s philosophy, honing skills, and consistently elevating the client experience.”

Website | Instagram

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