There’s a heartbeat to every Indian wedding, a rhythm of tradition, color, and love that pulses through every moment, and capturing it feels like a sacred dance. This image, a stolen glance between bride and groom during a recent ceremony, embodies that spirit. The groom’s turban, adorned with golden threads, and the bride’s smile framed by her emerald lehenga her mother wore on her own wedding day, and a delicate nose ring tell a story of heritage meeting forever. This moment glows with the soft light filtering through the canopy at Finley Creek Vineyards.
Photographing Indian weddings is a privilege I cherish deeply. These events are a tapestry of rituals, each thread rich with meaning, from the vibrant haldi ceremony where turmeric-dusted laughter fills the air, to the emotional jaimala exchange where garlands bind two souls. I thrive on the energy of the baraat procession, capturing the groom’s grand entrance with family and friends, dhol beats echoing in the background. My Nikon Z9 becomes an extension of my heart, chasing the golden hues of a bride’s intricate jewelry or the tender tears during the saat phere vows. With multiple days of festivities, we tell the story of intimate portraits in the morning light, the candid chaos of the sangeet night, and the serene beauty of the mandap under starlit skies.
What sets Indian weddings apart is the detail, the hand-embroidered lenghas, the scent of marigold garlands, and the rhythmic chants of the pundit. I love documenting these layers, blending posed elegance with the unscripted, perhaps a child twirling in a lehenga or elders sharing blessings. Whether it’s a 500-guest extravaganza or an intimate gathering, my approach is to be a quiet observer, framing every emotion with care. This couple’s love, set against the backdrop of their traditions, is a testament to why I adore this work; each frame is a celebration of culture and connection.
Captured with the Nikon Z9 in Natural light.
Edited to look like film.
Location: 795 US-421, Zionsville, IN 46077.