REAL WEDDING · BYWATER, NEW ORLEANS

New Orleans wedding photographer — Bridgett & Nick at Capulet

A rooftop ceremony, a second line and a party full of personality: Bridgett and Nick’s wedding brought together everything I love about photographing people in New Orleans. This is their real wedding story, photographed by me, Ralf Czogallik of Eppel Fotografie, with assistance from Jos & Tree.

If you are looking for a wedding photographer for New Orleans, this gallery gives you a feel for my approach: colorful photographs, real reactions and portraits with character. I am based in the Netherlands and travel internationally for weddings, working closely with each couple before the celebration.

Check your New Orleans wedding date

From a wedding in Spain to New Orleans

I first met Bridgett and Nick while photographing Aaron and Sandra’s destination wedding in Spain. We connected immediately. When they later asked me to photograph their own wedding in New Orleans, it felt like picking up a conversation with friends.

That connection matters. Being comfortable with your photographer gives you space to be yourselves, and it lets me notice more than the formal moments. I look for the reactions around you, the people joining in and the small exchanges that make the day personal.

A rooftop wedding at Capulet in Bywater

Bridgett and Nick chose Capulet in New Orleans’ Bywater neighborhood. Their rooftop ceremony near the Mississippi River gave the celebration a setting that felt unmistakably connected to the city.

For a rooftop ceremony, I think about the direction of the light, the surrounding scene and the guests’ reactions as well as the couple. A wide photograph establishes the place; a closer frame brings you back to a look or a feeling. Together, those images tell a fuller story.

Planning a wedding at Capulet? Confirm current arrangements with the venue and share your ceremony timing with your photographer. We can then plan portraits and family photographs around the celebration rather than interrupting it.

Photographing a New Orleans wedding second line

The second line brought movement and celebration into Bridgett and Nick’s day. For me, this is where documentary photography comes alive: keeping pace, anticipating reactions and finding compositions while everyone is enjoying the moment.

A wedding second line is a celebratory parade, often led by a brass band with the couple and their guests following. The tradition is rooted in New Orleans’ Black musical and community culture. If you are considering one, the official New Orleans wedding planning guide is a useful starting point. Coordinate the route and arrangements with your local planner.

Colorful wedding photography with room for real moments

My approach combines documentary coverage with editorial portraits. I give relaxed direction when we make portraits, then step back into observing the day. The aim is a gallery that reflects your people and your energy, from the quieter moments to the evening celebration.

Bridgett and Nick’s story is one example of that approach. You can also see my New Orleans couple photography with Sandra and Aaron, explore the wedding portfolio, or discover a different American setting in my Oheka Castle wedding photography on Long Island.

Planning your destination wedding photography

We can start with a video call wherever you live. Tell me your wedding date, venue and the events you want photographed. I will prepare a personal proposal covering the agreed photography and travel arrangements.

A preview arrives within 48 hours, with the full edited gallery normally following within three to four weeks. A luxury wedding album can bring the story together in print. Read more about my destination wedding photography or ask about availability for your celebration.

The team behind Bridgett & Nick’s wedding

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this celebration, and especially Jos & Tree for their assistance with the photography.

Bridgett & Nick’s wedding photographs

Explore the celebration below, from the rooftop ceremony to the second line and the party.