Learn more about working with me!
Hi, I'm Averie. I'm an Australian wedding photographer and filmmaker based in Jersey City, with a photo studio in the Catskill Mountains of New York. I shoot weddings across the Hudson Valley, Catskills, New York City, Brooklyn, and Jersey City - plus destination celebrations wherever your story takes you.
Jersey City has been home for nearly a decade. I also spend much of my time up in the Catskills working out of my studio in Kingston, which is what first pulled me into photographing weddings throughout the Hudson Valley. Working between both regions means I get to document weddings that move between city and countryside - waterfront celebrations along the Hudson, intimate gatherings tucked into the mountains, and everything in between.
Weddings, to me, are never just events. They're whole days of living - the nervous-excited car ride, the way your mom looks at you in the mirror, the cousin who somehow ends up holding three drinks. My job is to catch all of that honestly, so that years from now the photos don't feel staged. They feel like the day itself.
A lot of my couples become lifelong friends, and one of the best parts of this work is staying in their lives - coming back to photograph the growing family, the new house, the first baby, all of it.
With more than 15 years behind the camera across fashion, music, fine art, film, and advertising, I bring a layered, thoughtful eye to every wedding. I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photomedia from UNSW in Sydney.
When I'm not photographing weddings, you'll usually find me painting, sewing quilts, working with ceramics, exploring the mountains, or coaching CrossFit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are you based, and do you travel?
I'm based in Jersey City, where I've lived for nearly a decade and put down deep roots. I also keep a photo studio in Kingston in the Catskills and spend a lot of time working up there, so I regularly photograph weddings throughout the Catskills, Hudson Valley, Jersey City, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and across New Jersey. I also love traveling for destination weddings and regularly photograph celebrations across the United States and internationally.
How would you describe your photography style?
Documentary, romantic, colorful, and emotive. I focus on real moments instead of stiff posing - letting the day unfold naturally and gently guiding you only when it helps. With more than 15 years of photographing people, I'm really good at making couples feel comfortable in front of the camera, even the ones who walk in saying "just so you know, I'm awkward in photos." (Most people are. That's where the fun starts.)
Do we need a second photographer?
second photographer is an optional add-on, not included in my base collections. I recommend bringing one on in two situations:
Guest counts of 150 or more : Larger weddings benefit from having two angles — both partners getting ready, more guest reactions during the ceremony, and broader coverage during the reception.
When the day's logistics make it hard to be in two places at once : A common example is when both partners are getting ready at locations too far apart for me to realistically cover solo.
For smaller or more intimate weddings, I usually photograph the day on my own. With hundreds of weddings behind me, I'm very comfortable capturing the full story solo without missing the moments that matter most. If you're not sure what's right for your day, I'm always happy to talk it through.
What’s the best time of day for wedding photos?
The most beautiful light happens during golden hour - the last 45 minutes before sunset - and I recommend scheduling portraits then whenever possible. Midday sun can be harsh, but with the right locations and a little creative direction, we can make beautiful images at any time of day.
Do you shoot film or digital?
Both. I'm a hybrid photographer, and film has always been part of my background - I love mixing it in for the texture and timelessness it brings. I usually shoot film alongside digital so you get the soul of film with the reliability of modern gear.
What gear do you use?
I photograph weddings using professional Canon mirrorless cameras paired with a selection of prime and zoom lenses.
I also shoot film on medium format cameras such as the Mamiya 6 and occasionally bring smaller film cameras to capture spontaneous dance floor moments.
Can we have the raw files?
Raw files are the digital equivalent of negatives and require professional editing to become finished photographs. For this reason, I only deliver carefully edited images that reflect my style and quality standards.
You will receive a curated collection of high-resolution images that tell the complete story of your wedding day.
What is a first look, and should we do one?
A first look is when the couple sees each other privately before the ceremony. It can be an incredibly emotional moment and often helps calm nerves before the day begins.
Many couples also choose a first look so we can complete portraits earlier in the day, allowing them to enjoy more of their cocktail hour with guests.
What does your editing process look like?
I personally edit every photograph using professional color grading and tonal adjustments in Lightroom. Each image is refined for color, exposure, and balance so your final gallery feels cohesive and timeless while still preserving the natural atmosphere of the day.
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
Rain can actually create some of the most romantic photographs. I always come prepared with backup plans for portraits, including beautiful indoor spaces or covered outdoor areas.
Clear umbrellas can also create beautiful rainy-day portraits.
Why should we get a wedding album?
A wedding album becomes a family heirloom. While digital images are wonderful for sharing, a printed album allows you to experience the story of your wedding day in a tangible way that will last for generations.
Are you insured and are the photos backed up?
Yes, I am fully insured and can provide a certificate of insurance if your venue requires it.
Your photographs are backed up immediately after the wedding to multiple hard drives and secure cloud storage to ensure they are always protected.
Do you scout locations ahead of time?
I arrive early on the wedding day to explore the venue and find the best locations for portraits based on light and surroundings. I also research venues beforehand so I’m familiar with the space and prepared to capture it beautifully.
We’re planning an outdoor wedding. Any suggestions?
Outdoor weddings can be incredibly beautiful. I recommend choosing a dress you feel comfortable moving in and embracing the adventure of the setting. A little dirt on the hem often becomes part of the story of the day.
How far in advance should we book our photographer?
Many couples book their photographer 9–18 months in advance, especially for popular Catskills and Hudson Valley wedding venues. If your date is coming up sooner, it’s always worth reaching out to check availability.
How many photos will we receive?
Every wedding is different, but most couples receive 600–900 carefully edited images that tell the complete story of the day.
How are the photos delivered?
Your photographs are delivered through a private online gallery where you can download high-resolution images, share with friends and family, and order professional prints or albums.
What are some popular wedding venues in the Catskills and Hudson Valley?
The Catskills and Hudson Valley are home to some incredible wedding venues. Some favorites include Foxfire Mountain House, Scribner’s Lodge, Audrey’s Farmhouse, Gather Greene, Full Moon Resort, and many beautiful private estates throughout the mountains.
What are some popular wedding venues in Jersey City?
Jersey City has some of the most stunning waterfront wedding venues in the New York area. Some favorites include Battello, Liberty House, Maritime Parc, Hudson House, Porta, Corto, and venues around Liberty State Park with incredible views of the Manhattan skyline.
Having lived in Jersey City for eight years, I love photographing weddings along the waterfront and throughout the city.
Do you photograph weddings in the Catskills, Hudson Valley, and Jersey City?
Yes. I regularly photograph weddings throughout the Catskills and Hudson Valley, including Woodstock, Kingston, Hudson, and the surrounding region. I also photograph weddings in Jersey City, Brooklyn, and New York City.
How did you become a wedding photographer?
Earlier in my career, I spent years photographing musicians and artists - documenting live shows, the energy backstage, the chaos and adrenaline of it all. In 2011, one of my closest friends asked if I'd shoot her wedding because she loved the way I photographed people in my music work. I was nervous, but I said yes. That day changed everything. I fell completely in love with documenting something so meaningful, and being welcomed into such an intimate moment in people's lives. I haven't looked back since.
How do we book you?
Once we’ve discussed your wedding plans, I’ll send you a proposal and booking agreement. A 50% retainer secures your date, and the remaining balance is due before the wedding.
Any advice for planning the wedding timeline?
Natural light makes a massive difference, so plan your ceremony and portraits around the best light of the day whenever possible.
Bright getting ready spaces and a little breathing room built into the timeline also go a long way toward keeping the day feeling smooth instead of rushed.