PHOTOGRAPHER | Diana Galay

Diana Galay's work is about presence and connection. Her goal isn't to make you appear perfect; instead, she wants to help you recognise the beauty you already possess - captured with a playful, unpolished and lively style. Diana Galay is based in Cleveland, Ohio, and frequently captures weddings in the US East Coast and NYC.

Tell us about your business! 

My business began when I took my sister’s belated senior photos back in high school. We did not have the means for professional photos growing up, and in that moment I realized how deeply everyone deserves to be seen. From that day on I have been drawn to photographing people not just as they appear but as they feel. My work is rooted in the belief that we all carry a light within us and I am here to reflect it back through imagery that feels like home.

What would you like couples to know about you? 

I am inspired by you. You hold the magic. I simply hold the camera and the ability to stay present. My  promise is to remind you again and again that your only job is to be with each other. Shooting film is a  meditation for me. It slows me down and invites me to witness your connection with the attention it deserves.

Where are you based? 

Cleveland, Ohio with frequent trips to the east coast and NYC!

Do you travel for weddings? 

Yes yes - discomfort of being away from home aides in my ability to be creative.

How would you describe your style? 

It is as if you snuck into your sister’s room, grabbed her digital camera, and created a fashion show in the backyard. Playful, unpolished, full of life. But elevated with an artist’s eye. When I deliver your gallery it feels like your own personal art exhibition of the day, filled with every sense, every bit of color and texture that made it yours.

What is your most memorable career moment? 

One of my couples forgot their marriage license at the courthouse. Without missing a beat they made their own paper, signed it, and framed it. It reminded me that no matter what goes right or wrong, what lasts is love and the way you choose each other. I am always learning from the people I photograph. That is what  stays with me.

What inspires you? 

The way you move your hands when you're in good conversation. The way your tie unfolds after a night of dancing. The way you look into your partners eyes without needing to wipe your tears. Unspoken human language inspires me daily. People who feel comfortable in their skin teaches younger me to just be myself. The language of love is everywhere. I look for it and I honor it.

How would you describe your working style? 

I show up as a guest not a vendor. My work is playful, human, and deeply present. I feel everything as I  photograph and I do not stop until I know your story is told from beginning to end.

Do you shoot digitally, on film or both? 

Both. I love weaving film into my galleries to bring that nostalgic, timeless feeling. I edit my digital images to harmonize so that the whole collection feels like one beautiful memory.

Do you have custom packages according to individual needs? 

I offer half day and full day coverage to keep things simple and easy. I believe in moving slow and being  present rather than packing your day into a strict timeline. I love arriving to capture the beginning and  staying until the story feels complete so that I am the last thing you need to think about. Your presence with  each other is always my greatest priority.

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

Rehearsal dinner! Such a fun way to integrate a laid back feel to your wedding album.

Where would you love to travel to for work? 

Anywhere love is.

Who is your dream client? 

Someone who is authentically themselves and wants a day that reflects who they are without doing what  they think they need to do.

What is your advice to couples getting married? 

Take moments to ground yourself with each other. Find little pockets in the day that feel like the world has  gone quiet except for you two. That is where the magic lives.

Diana Galay Photography 

Website: www.dianagalayphoto.com 

Instagram: @dianagalay_photo