The ISPWP Member Spotlight talks today with Radmila Ladyzhinskaya of Sunflowers Studios Photography in New York, NY.

Radmila’s Bio:
I have been photographing professionally since 1998. My major photographic interests are journalism, wedding photography, portraits as well as children photography. I am very grateful to have had an opportunity to study with the well known European masters- Igor Sakharov, Sergei Novozhilov, Yervant, Viktor Ivanovsky, and Aliona Artamonova. In 2007, I successfully completed master classes from these recognized photographers. I am also a participant of a unique and talented group of artists called the “Art of Inspiration – Vladimir Andreev and his Friends“. Through its founder Andreev, the team has gained international recognition for the large series of exhibitions throughout the United States and Russia ( Moscow, Murmansk, Washington DC, Smolensk, United Nations Headquarters in the NYC etc,) as well as numerous publications and TV appearances. My membership in this creative union has allowed me to participate in these exhibitions, as well as present my work in a solo show in New York City.

Radmila Ladyzhinskaya, New York Wedding Photographer, ISPWP Member
website: Sunflowers Studios Photography | email: radmila@optonline.net | phone: (718)934-6900

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

I have to say that my favorite part to photo shoot is after the bride has finished with all her preparations, putting on her dress and finishing with her hair and make up. It is usually in the morning, and we have about an hour to work with her. That is where we work with our additional lighting, which draws and creates a whole different picture. During this time, the bride relaxes, and the pictures come out great.

Also, the time before the celebration gives a lot of opportunities. At that time, we are able to also take the couple out to some of the outdoor places that we have looked up. The couple feels very comfortable, and it is the place that they have chosen prior to the wedding.

Another part of the day which I love is when the ceremony begins, after all the posing work was done, now I can start working like a photojournalist.That is where the true emotions are captured.

I may have described the whole day, but the truth is , I love my job very much, and enjoy it fully.

2. What kinds of weddings do you love to photograph?

My favorite weddings to photograph are definitely when there is a positive attitude in the air. I like when there is a good vibe, and everyone is just enjoying the day. Other than that, everyone whom I work with are more than clients, throughout the day, we form a bond that is different from just a vendor to a client.

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

One of the most important things that a bride has to take care of if she wants to look completely great for her wedding pictures is the make up artist. Some do not take this matter seriously, spending money on a lot of other things and leaving this out. A professional is always better than trying to do something yourself. During the ceremony and the celebration itself, the bride beginnings to sweat, which is absolutely a normal process. On the wedding pictures, this will show. However, a professional can help! Professional make up artists use make up that prevents that. I do not know the methods behind it , but I know that it works wonders! I have my own make up artist whom I am always proud to represent. Whenever I work with her, it is always so much easier after when I work with the files!

When hiring a make up artist, make sure to ask about Air Brush. Then you will be fine for the whole day, guaranteed!!

4. How important is it to hire an experienced wedding photographer?

The wedding is a very important day, and it could be the most magical day ever. You may have the most beautiful flowers, the most delicious cuisine, you will be looking beautiful. But after the wedding day, all of that will be behind. Many brides put their dress far away, and I know many that try to sell it. The only thing that will remind you of that beautiful and magical wedding are the wedding pictures. That is one of the most important things that people should have in mind when they are choosing their wedding vendor. As for not having a professional photographer at all, that is like saying no to the beautiful memories that you will be looking to have after, that you will be proud to show to all of your friends, family and later children and grandchildren.

5. What are some of your favorite local venues?

If I was to describe a venue that would be great for a photo shoot, I would say the one that is filled with light. One of the places that was filled with light has to be the Tavern on the Green in New York City. Being a photographer in the Tavern on the Green was a great experience for many reasons. The interior was beautiful, they have some things which I have never seen in my life. Before the wedding, we always go to check out the place to know what lighting to use. The setting was beautiful. It is located in the Central Park, so that’s a great location for an outdoor shoot as well. The staff were very friendly and showed me around. It is a great venue choice overall.

Another great experience was shooting a wedding at Oheka Castle in Huntington, New York. It was a magical venue, beautifully lit, great interior, and set on great grounds.

One more venue would have to be the The Riviera at Massapequa. It definitely shows to be a wonderful venue.

Radmila Ladyzhinskaya, New York Wedding Photographer, ISPWP Member
website: Sunflowers Studios Photography | email: radmila@optonline.net | phone: (718)934-6900

Looking for a world class wedding photographer for your wedding? Check out the ISPWP Wedding Photographer Directory for photographer serving your area.