PHOTOGRAPHER | Kelly Vahos

Kelly Vahos is a film photographer who is known for her avant-garde style, using a blend of playfulness, warmth, artistry, and approachability. Her goal is to cultivate a perspective that goes beyond convention and expected results, with her photographs being atmospheric and rich with colour. Kelly Vahos is based in New York City and travels for most of the weddings she captures.

What would you like couples to know about you?

I’m deeply sentimental about this work, knowing it will outlive me. When I photograph my clients, my eyes often swell at the thought that I’m making a portrait that will be passed down for generations—that their children will study it, that it will hang in a home that isn’t mine, that it will carry meaning for people who aren’t even alive yet.  

I’m quietly competitive with myself: I want every wedding I photograph to hold what is essential while also being rich with risks and joy.  

I'm the biggest advocate for laughing often and not taking things too seriously - there are plenty of jobs for that.  

Most of all, I value the relationships I build with my clients—both before and after their wedding day. That connection is what gives my work its purpose and perspective.

Do you travel for weddings?  

Yes! I’m based in New York but find myself on the road or a plane for almost all of my clients. My dream is to be able to shoot a wedding in Colombia, as it’s where my father was born and raised.

How would you describe your style?  

My goal has been to cultivate a perspective that goes beyond convention and expected results. It feels  familiar, has a sense of ease and a dash of humor. I want my photographs to be atmospheric, rich with color, and a bit weighty.  

I want my style of photography to feel delicious across all of the categories that currently exist — editorial, documentary, light/airy, dark/moody. It’s full of range and never able to fall into a single descriptor.  

I think there’s a really beautiful balance to be struck on a day where you are nurturing the moments that  need no guidance/manipulation, and then quickly being able to lend a hand to your couple and their guests and make them feel and look their best because they deserve (and want) that artful touch.

What inspires you?  

I have forever been enamored by the photographs that my mother took of my childhood. They’re such simple reminders of what showing up and shooting with heart can look like.  

I would be remiss to not mention my adoration of fellow colleagues and industry folks. There is so much art to consume and yes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed at times, but I love watching friends nail their sequencing, take risks, try new colors, and evolve over the years. As a former collegiate athlete, I know that without my teammates there would have been no championships. I am forever indebted to friends who keep pushing themselves further as it keeps me doing the same.

How would you describe your working style?  

Playful and immersive. I’m chatting with every guest. I’m zipping around. I’m encouraging chaos when it needs the permission. I’m not manipulating genuine moments. I work hard. I keep it light. 

Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?  

A mix of both, with a heavier emphasis on film for most of my weddings. Film is my love language and  about 99% of what you see throughout my website and Instagram.

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

Day-of coverage, meaning I will shoot between a range of hours instead of bookended times. It allows me to comfortably shoot and get what the day needs, versus the day being planned around my presence.

What is your most memorable career moment?  

Shooting my brother on his wedding morning. And seeing a photograph I took in British Vogue.

Who is your dream client?  

My dream clients are people who value style, guest experience, and a sense of fun. They see the role of the photographer holistically—not just in terms of the images created, but in the energy and presence I bring to the day.  

They want me on the dance floor. Their friends know my name before I even walk in the room. They want me to take risks on their behalf and create something from their day that is not only representative of the facts, but is cheeky, delightful, and evocative.

What is your advice to couples getting married?  

As a current bride (2026, here we come!!) my biggest advice is to find vendors you feel genuinely comfortable with. When you get off a call with someone, check in with yourself—how did they make you feel? Was the conversation easy? Hire the people you’d actually want around your friends and family on such an intimate day.  

I also think it’s important to really consider the day you want to create—for the two of you first, and then for your guests. You don’t need to follow the industry templates. I’ve been questioning everything myself— from whether my fiancé sees my dress before the day, to the start time of the ceremony, to whether family  photos should look traditional or just be candid moments with loved ones. My advice: do what feels true to you, and build a team of vendors who will fully support that vision.

Kelly Vahos

Website: kellyvahos.com

Instagram: @kellyvahosphoto