New York Wedding Photographer | STAK Photographer Duo | An ISPWP Member Spotlight

Steven & Tak Young Bios:

We are a happily married couple, who loves meeting new people, traveling to new places, and collecting pigs!
We believe that the most powerful and meaningful photos are the raw, real moments and emotions of the wedding day.

How did you get your start and why did you choose wedding photography as a career?

We first met in High School. When we started dating, we began taking tons of photos and documenting our relationship. Photography became a hobby of ours. One day, we realized that we can also help other people photograph and document their lives as well. That’s how it started.

How has your extensive experience in wedding photography helped you in difficult circumstances on a wedding day?

No matter what the weather is or the light conditions, we are able to find a way to make it work.

Tell us about some of the more unique weddings you’ve shot.

Although no two weddings are the same, the most unique was probably Divya and KP’s wedding in a small village in India. It was 3 consecutive days, the wedding took place in the streets outside her family’s home, and it was just unlike anything we’ve experienced before.

What are some of your favorite local venues?

We had a great time shooting at The Plaza Hotel, and recently enjoyed shooting at The Mandarin Oriental Hotel as well. Tribeca Rooftop is always great too.

What advice would you give a bride who is looking for a wedding photographer?

Wedding photography is extremely important, as we are documenting the first day/the start of your new family. One day your kids and grandchildren will want to look back at the photos to see how it all started. So it’s important to find the right match, and not to settle with just anybody.

What’s your favorite part of the wedding day to photograph?

We love the emotions during the morning getting ready time.

What kinds of weddings do you love to photograph?

We love shooting weddings both big and small. It really doesn’t matter as long as the emotions are real and the people are happy.

What are your top tips for brides to help them get great photos on their wedding day?

Just be yourself and don’t worry about the photos. The best photos come out when you are comfortable, relaxed, and trust your photographer.

How important is it to hire an experienced wedding photographer?

Extremely important! There are no redos, so you gotta get it right the first time.

Do you do “destination weddings?” If so, what are your favorite destinations?

Yes, we travel and enjoy shooting in new locations and places. We have shot multiple weddings in India and Mexico, and also recently photographed weddings in Costa Rica and Puerto Rico.

What do you do for fun when you’re not shooting weddings?

Collecting pigs, watching the Knicks, watching movies, playing PS3.

How would you describe your style of photography?

A lot of people describe our photos as “fun,” and we would describe it as real moments with stylish portraits.

Do you offer albums? If so, describe the albums you offer and why you think it’s important to provide albums.

Your wedding album will be the heirloom that you pass on to your grandkids. It’s really important to turn your memories into something tangible, like an album. We never liked the idea of trusting your memories to websites and technology, because who knows if those sites will be around in 50 years?

What (or who) inspires you?

We try to draw inspiration from everything in life. Music, movies, different people, books, even food.

What’s the best photography-related advice you’ve been given?

There’s always more to learn.

What would you say was the biggest reason for your success?

We are passionate about what we do. We have put a lot of time into our business and we are fortunate to be blessed with amazing clients.