Betsy and Rich's Modern Industrial Space Wedding at The Art Factory | Paterson, NJ | New Jersey Wedding Photographer - Mike Zawadzki Photography

Betsy and Rich were referred to me by my good friends Jen + Steven, who run Fox & Hare Photography. We immediately hit it off, talking about their wedding vision and plans at the very trendy, industrial, and hip Art Factory in Paterson, NJ – which is one of my favorite places to photograph. Visually it is unique, and the way the light falls through the windows in certain areas is just so pleasant, and matches my preferred artistic style as well. Truly, it is just a playground for photographers. Betsy and Rich seemed to agree, and we also did their engagement session at the Art Factory as well, which you can click here to see.

Leading up to the wedding Betsy and Rich had some concerns about plans and expectations, which we talked about at length over email and phone conversations. This ended up to leading to striking up a very nice rapport, and I am super grateful to consider them friends today. Betsy and Rich have left me some of the kindest words + reviews, and the respect is mutual. They were a treat to work with. I was also very stoked that Betsy and Rich were eager to have some different portraits done that really showed off the space, and their trust in my vision of what that would look like, resulted in what I think are some really special images.

One of my greatest joys about photographing Betsy and Rich is that they “posed” so naturally for candid and natural moments. Now I know that sounds like an oxymoron, so I guess a better way to describe it is that they took light direction well, and felt comfortable enough in front of the camera to just be themselves with each other – and their guests. That’s one of the most important aspects I try to work on when I’m with a wedding couple. The great communication we had before the wedding played a major role in this as well. As they day progressed we explored the Art Factory together, and found some of our favorite spots – while trying to change it up a little bit from the engagement session as well, for the sake of variety. They were kind enough to let me have some of the delicious donuts on display, and even snuck out for a few night photos. The lead image in this blog post is my favorite wedding photograph that I’ve ever taken!

Writing up this blog post and sharing images from this wonderful wedding has been a nice escape from the current COVID-19 pandemic. I think many of us are having a hard time in a lot of the same (and some different) ways, so I hope seeing their images is an escape for some of you. I know it has been for me. During this difficult time I hope to share more love stories, and keeping as positive as possible!