PHOTOGRAPHER | Daniel Bergin

New York-based Daniel Bergin combines digital and film mediums in his work. He prioritises forming connections and spending meaningful time with each couple he collaborates with and is renowned for his vibrant, colourful, and playful style. Daniel Bergin views weddings as a celebration and loves working with couples who share the same perspective.

Where are you based?

New York.

Do you travel for weddings?

Yep! Most recently to California, Montana, and the Bahamas.

How would you describe your style?

Punchy. Colorful. Playful. I try have a bit of a sense of humor about my work.

What is your most memorable career moment?

It's tough to pick just one, I have been in so many rooms and places I otherwise wouldn't have been if it weren't for photography. But if I had to choose, shooting a wedding in Paradise Valley, Montana was pretty cool.

What inspires you?

Movies, music, experiences. All sorts of things. But most importantly, I'm inspired by the lovely people who connect with my work and choose me for their wedding. Photographing people is inherently collaborative, and I choose to lean into that. I don't make assumptions about who people are. Instead, I see it as my responsibility to create a space where people feel comfortable enough to show me who they are. This is so important to me because I've learned that the best photos aren't really taken, they're sort of given. This experience is exactly what inspires me. Every time I work with someone new, I never really know what I'm going to get.

I will also say I'm particularly drawn to the chaos of a rowdy dance floor haha.

Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?

I shoot a combination of digital and film. I think they both have their individual strengths, so I let my experience and intuition guide my use of both mediums.

What is a favourite product or service that you offer and why?

I include a complimentary pre-wedding portrait session with my standard package. It's actually less of a shoot and more just a lil quality hang time before the wedding. I do this because I believe that making meaningful, representative images of people and moments is less about being a photographer, and more about connecting as humans. This time together is so beneficial for the actual wedding day for a number of reasons but most of all because we're no longer a strangers. Ultimately, I've found that taking this approach is massively impactful for couples comfort and presence.

Where would you love to travel to for work?

Traveling for work is always a huge honor. Though I primarily work in the city, I've grown to love weddings out in nature or with big scenic views. I always enjoy working out on the west coast, and outside of the US, Ireland is at the top of my bucket list.

Who is your dream client?

My dream clients are couples who share the belief that a wedding is above all a party, not a performance.

What is your advice to couples getting married?

Being present on your wedding day is a choice you make in planning, not just something you hope for on the day of. It starts with hiring vendors who you mesh well with and trust!

Daniel Bergin Photography

Website: danielbergin.com

Instagram: @danielcbergin