I believe in real genuine moments. I believe in the kinds of photos that remind you of the joy that can be found in the simplest of moments together. And in photos that are itching to be printed, placed in beautiful frames and hung on walls for years to come.
I have been photographing couples and weddings for a little over four years and I know that it sounds super cliche, but I LOVE love. I truly believe capturing the various seasons of life is my calling. I love showing the authentic side of people through my photos and giving people something tangible out of the most precious seasons in life. My main goal is to create a comfortable and safe environment that allows you and your love to be yourselves and have so much fun that you will almost forget I'm there.
WEDDING & ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER SERVING BUFFALO, NY + BEYOND
HI THERE, I'm SAM
On your wedding day, I aim to be a calm presence and keep you relaxed and in the moment. I’ll carry bags, fix your hair, touch up your lipstick, hold your veil, dry off your bridesmaids flowers, fluff your dress and anything else I can to make sure your day runs as smooth as possible.
I'll wrangle family members with ease when I need to. I'll crack some dad jokes in hopes to get you your wedding party smiling and laughing for photos. I’ll be on that dance floor dancing and singing right alongside you while I snap away. And I’ll chit chat with your grandparents as they reminisce their own wedding all those years ago. I fully immerse myself in your day in a way that's not intrusive but in a way that allows me to capture the most genuine and authentic moments, as if experienced through the eyes of one of your guests. I enjoy the day just as much as you, because truly, I love what I do with my whole heart!
So Here's the thing you need to know
Ashley + Jim
"...She is very professional, yet makes you feel like you’ve been friends for forever and always makes you feel comfortable..."
Big or small - I love a good adventure! Have I mentioned that I once road tripped across the country for 3 weeks and lived in my car? I have a deep love for travel and a profound appreciation for this beautiful planet we live on.
adventures
I love a "laughing till you cry" moment...which I am commonly known for doing many times among friends. I love laughing and LOVE capturing every teary laugh, belly laugh, you name it.
heartfelt laughter
Summer is my season. I live for 80 and sunshine! Sitting in my dogs kiddie pool with a book, helping my boyfriend tend to his farm (yes, I'm dating a farmer), beach-combing with my mom, and sipping a moscow mule on a rooftop bar with my friends.
A SUNNY DAY OUTSIDE
After a busy Friday and Saturday, I look forward to resetting my mind and body with a long drive with my boyfriend. With hammocks and snacks packed, we love to watch the sunset and lay out until the stars come out.
sunday drives
Use this space to share key elements of your brand that you want ideal clients to resonate with. Try to choose things that hold more meaning than colors, stores (looking at you Target) or your cat, Fluffy. Unless you're a pet photographer. In which case Fluffy is fair game.
intimate moments
Now this may not fuel my soul, but it certainly fuels my body during busy season. You can typically guarantee that I'm editing and sipping on an iced latte.
ICED VANILLA OATMILK LATTES
You see that little flower girl in the photo below holding a camera? Yeah, that's me! The running joke is that I've always known I was destined to be a wedding photographer. While I found my love for weddings later in life - I can always remember having a camera in hand!
I received an AAS in Photography from the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC, where I started in portraiture and landscapes. While in school, I assisted in a wedding and FELL IN LOVE. Taking photos of a loved-up couple on their wedding day just filled me with the happiness and giddiness I was missing in my other projects. I shifted gears, got my Bachelors in marketing, and started taking myself and my business more seriously. Cue graduation (AKA May 2020...AKA hello COVID), I took a leap of faith, running Sam Renaud Photo full time in an era where all large events were cancelled. Fast forward to now with over 100 weddings under my belt - I’m still just as in love as I was back then.
behind the photos
The Heart
From the booking process to the photo delivery, my client experience is easy, seamless, and streamlined. You'll know what to expect every step of the way right from the start!
What makes me different
FROM OTHER PHOTOGRAPHERS
All my couples receive my Wedding Planning Guide! This includes all the tips and tricks to make your wedding photography experience the best ever! It includes all my recommended vendors, timeline options, rainy wedding tips, engagement session tips, details checklist, family photo checklist, how to have an unplugged wedding, first look tips and so much more!
I’m not really into editing trends, which is why all your photos are edited in a timeless editing style so that they never go out of style. My work has been described as timeless, soft, romantic, clean, dreamy and true to life. You'll be able to look at your photos 40 years from now and they will look true to the day.
Almost every testimonial I receive includes a bit about my personality, how I interact with friends and family, and/or how I carry myself throughout the day! I'm bubbly, outgoing, personable, super kind to all, and can handle the pressures that weddings can sometimes bring! I try to help as much as I can leading up and on the day of to help the day go smoothly!
STREAMLINED CLIENT EXPERIENCE
TIMELESS EDITING STYLE
MY WEDDING PLANNING GUIDE
MY PERSONALITY
I do so many things to ensure that I am prepared for whatever is thrown our way on the day of! I always arrive at least 20 minutes before my start time to scope out the venue and get a head start. I keep 10 clear bubble umbrellas in my car in case we encounter some rain. And if you need anything, chances are I'll have it: advil, oil blotting sheets, tums, etc. I even keep a crochet hook on me in case you need help buttoning your dress!
MY Preparedness
Let's make magic
Get ready to fill your walls with images that make you smile for years to come.