NYC Corporate Event Photography: Women's Founders Paint and Sip Chinatown Event

When I photograph corporate events or professional headshots, my approach surprisingly doesn’t differ much from shooting a wedding or family session. The final results look different, but there are actually many similarities.

The biggest one is that we're all human. The goal for any brand or non-profit hosting the event is to make guests feel truly special, because they are, as they support and promote the organization's mission or a business’s goals.

Guests at these events are often donors, board members, key stakeholders, and over time, they build genuine, caring professional relationships with one another. At the core, human connection and human intelligence remain essential, especially as AI becomes more prominent.

A candid corporate event photo of two women talking

I'm here to celebrate, honor, and support your brand or institution through corporate event photography that comes straight from the heart. That human perspective helps your company goals truly take flight.

This particular Watercolor and Wine evening for female founders and investors spotlighted different unique female founders across the room. The event took place in my favorite neighborhood, Chinatown, and was hosted by Reitler Law for its venture capitalist clients and prospective clients. Stick With Me Sweets founded by ex-Michelin pastry chef Susanna Yoon provided extra artisanal charm with gorgeous chocolate truffles. I brought one home to my spouse and he said it was the tastiest chocolate he’s ever had. I didn’t try one, but as you can see, they are visually unmatched.

They painted pre-drawn watercolor note cards from artist-entrepreneur Emily Lex while enjoying non-alcoholic aperitifs from Ghia.

Delivering corporate event photos is about more than just the images themselves. Sure, the photos are valuable assets for stewardship, marketing, and powerful brand storytelling. But having a dedicated corporate event photographer present adds a special value to the experience on its own. Guests feel seen, honored, and valued throughout the event.

Corporate Event Photographer in New York City | Galas, Fundraisers & Business Events and Epic Parties

Corporate Event Photography in New York City

It has been a while since I highlighted something that I do year after year. No it’s not weddings. Nor is it family portraits. It’s coporate events. Whether it’s a gala, fundraiser, business seminar, celebration of volunteers, or a get together for your board of trustees, or venture capitalist paint and sip, I’ve done it.

Fundraisers, Conferences, and Corporate Celebrations

If your organization or corporation is having an event, I’m here to deliver high quality assets quickly. And I won’t forget to capture the heart of the day, and highlight the reason you’re working so hard for your cause.

Below is a lovely fundraising gala I photographed for Justice in Motion.

Happy Holidays and End of year message from Elizabeth

Holiday Wedding Love

I wanted to share some holiday wedding pictures from snowy rural places, because winter is my vibe. I was born in December, and I’m a winter all the way. Give me a winter wedding any day. There’s something so lovely about winter light and the festive atmosphere of holiday weddings. And something kind of wild about going out in the snow and getting your picture taken. Snow changes the atmosphere in a magical way and cold adds a strange level of excitement, like a polar plunge.

The New Year’s Eve wedding has no snow, but make no mistake, it was the coldest. I want to say is was in the low teens. In all of these outdoor pictures, I could not feel my fingers. I had to desaturate the couples’ red faces. The brides had bare arms. But they were all troopers. The last-but-not-least wedding was so magical. It was at Deerfield Academy in Massachusetts.

I also wanted to let all of you know how much you mean to me. I know that many of you are going through a lot, and I want you to know I care, and support you all.

I hope this season gives you comfort, family, and lots of love and good food, and that 2026 brings you an abundance of blessings, more than you can imagine. Thank you all for entrusting me to take your pictures and to be in your life. I always love to hear from you.

Happy Holidays 2025

Holiday season Is in full Swing

I have had the most wonderful year, and I hope you have too. I’ve been taking more family photos than ever, and my heart is full. Thank you all for entrusting me in your heirloom pictures.

Here are some recent holiday family pictures I’ve taken: Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and even a golf course in Los Angeles with furry babies. I really want to do another Hanukkah family portrait, across from (and in front of) the Plaza Hotel at Grand Army Plaza where the World’s Largest Menorah will shine bright.

There’s still time to take holiday pictures, edit, and print them up in cards or framed prints. If you’re a New Yorker, you know how we do, last minute and fast. Message me to book, but don’t wait.

Family portraits, an art in and of itself

I used to specialize in weddings, editorial portraits, and headshots and I still definitely do those, but family photography has naturally risen to the top. I have been doing portrait photography and it’s grown through referrals. For many years I photographed the Hamilton Park Montessori school— I called photo days Blossoms because we shot during peak flowering tree season. Now, I’ve moved to Manhattan and the possibilities are truly endless. I understand the importance of family pictures, not just when your babies are small, but as they grow older as well.

Thank you for a Wonderful Year, and Happy holidays, everyone!


NYC City Hall Wedding Photographer: Intimate New York Elopement Photography

A New York City Hall Wedding

Documentary-Style Elopement Photography

Many of you know weddings have been my staple work for the past two decades. Wedding trends evolve constantly, but intimate ceremonies remain timeless — especially City Hall weddings in New York City. These celebrations focus on authenticity, connection, and the energy of the city itself.

The architecture around Worth Street alone creates a cinematic New York backdrop — iconic, energetic, and unmistakably urban. For couples planning an NYC elopement, documentary coverage ensures the day feels natural while still capturing timeless portraits.

Why Couples Choose City Hall Weddings in NYC

There are many reasons people choose New York for engagement sessions and small weddings. First, many people at some point in their lives lived in New York, and many couples met here. The backdrop of NYC is so beautiful to begin with but add nostalgia to it and it becomes the obvious choice. For people who live her, it’s the perfect place to invite families and friends. It’s a destination hub and, well, it’s New York.

Also, people want to keep things simple. I personally am a huge fan of giant weddings, but there’s also something wonderful about an intimate New York City Hall Wedding. Whether you stay living in New York or not, what an amazing memory of getting married in such a magnificent city, and then wandering around there for a photoshoot, or heading over to your favorite New York spots. before settling in with family and friends at an amazing restaurant.

Post-Ceremony Portrait Locations in Manhattan

People, especially from out of town, think that the post-ceremony photo session has to be at the most iconic spots, like the Brooklyn Bridge, etc. But New York is so cool, it’s intrinsically iconic, even if you’re on a generic street. Almost everyone recognizes that you are here in NYC. That’s what I love most about my job. The tapestry is endless. Conclusion, pick any NYC location for your photo session. You simply cannot go wrong.

This couple did a re-enactment of the groom’s parents, right on Broadway drinking Coke in a bottle. They also went to Madison Square Park for some memories of their proposal and stunning posed pictures. The light in the park is exquisite, as it bounces off of all of the bright buildings that surround the park. It’s also one of my favorite places to take outdoor professional headshots.

I love the no-fuss, authentic, exuberant energy of City Hall weddings. To be honest, I too eloped (in Provincetown) and know how very special it is to keep it simple. There’s nothing simple in New York though. The buildings are breathtaking, especially 141 Worth Street, the doors and entryway make an over-the-top New York experience. New York never fails to be magnificent, the architecture and energy is just too beautiful to ever let that happen.

NYC Event & Party Photographer, Corporate and Birthday Parties, Galas & Celebrations

I don’t just photograph weddings

The pictures on my website often feature iconic wedding images with muted colors, but a big portion of my work is the opposite. Saturated, fun, and sometimes cocktail-infused candids at parties. I photograph parties all night long. And there are so many parties in New York, my work is never ending.

Event photography in New York City is really about reading the room, knowing when to stay invisible, when to grab a quick posed group shot, and when the energy is just right for a candid moment. From cocktail parties and fundraisers to birthdays, brand launches, and low-key corporate celebrations, the goal is always photos that feel alive, not staged.

NYC Event Photography Style — Vibrant Color and Energy

My approach is simple: capture people in the most candid moment, move quickly and never interrupt the vibe. The result is coverage that feels real, raw, and very “New York” the kind of images you’ll want to share the next day. And when I say events, I put them in a different category than weddings. These are parties, fundraisers and galas, family get-togethers, birthdays, you name it.

Want to see more event pictures? visit www.elizabethsolaka.com/events

Central Park Graduation Photographer NYC: Fall Grad Photos Manhattan

Graduation photography in Central Park NYC — natural, cinematic grad portraits with iconic locations and seasonal color.

College grad poses atop Manhattan Schist in Central Park NYC
Graduate posing on rock formation in Central Park with autumn foliage.

Seasonal Portrait Tips

Grad photos for every season

The majority of pictures I take for grads are on their graduation day, or the same week. This makes perfect sense, since the excitement is palpable, the gown is pressed and ready to go, and friends and family are present. In a sense, it’s sort of an event photography session.

But a lot of other people choose fall, because their grad photos are due to yearbooks, and it’s just that back-to-school time of year that screams academia.

Whatever the season, follow these guidelines, choose relaxed over fussy. If the fake eyelashes will bother you, skip them. If the cap doesn’t suit you, just take a couple with it and then ditch it for the rest of the session. As for every photo shoot, make sure to talk to your photographer for the best light. For me, it depends on the location and season. I can make it work no matter what time of day and no matter what location.

Best Central Park Locations for Graduation Photos

Graduation portraits in Central Park combine natural scenery with iconic New York backdrops. Fall sessions are especially popular thanks to warm foliage, soft light, and cinematic textures. Where’s the best place to go? You tell me! As with all of New York, the list is endless. There are bridges, arches, water, woods, statues, monuments and landmarks, you name it. These spots are for you to explore online and bookmark. This list is also great for location scouting for wedding pictures as well.


This recent session included classic park locations like Cop Cot and the Balto statue, meaningful for a veterinary-science graduate preparing for a career in animal care.

We also started with studio-style portraits at home before heading into the park, creating a mix of polished and candid imagery. Including with dad, which may end up being the most emotionally lasting photographs.

For NYC graduation photography, it’s all about bringing out the real graduate and what makes them shine, timing, location choice, and natural interaction.

Then out we went into the park, which was showing off with every warm shade of fall. The kind of day where the leaves look painted on, the sun is soft instead of bossy, and people stroll like they’ve forgotten they have anywhere else to be. As an aside autumn, Central Park to me is the most beautiful place on earth.

She climbed up onto the magnificent Manhattan schist—like every true New Yorker has done at least once—and sat with the billionaire’s row skyline standing guard behind her. She looked right at home, as if the city were a familiar friend rather than an architectural brag.

And at the end, there was one last frame: a bonus shot with her dad, our driver for the day, the silent anchor who shepherded us from spot to spot with a smile. It was a tiny moment, warm and simple, the kind you almost miss if you’re not paying attention. I never forget to take pictures with the parents if they’re around because these photos end up being the most meaningful as the years go by.

I Was in an Art Show! And Meet Nathaniel! Updates from a New York photographer.

I was in an Art Show!

I was in an art show! A street fair on East 91st Street, just a few blocks from Museum Mile. I got accepted on the Friday evening before the event — just two days to prepare — and I’d never done a street art show before. I needed plastic sleeves, backings, cardboard corners… fast. I realized the best way to get what I needed in time was to walk the neighborhood frame shops. To my relief, I found kind people willing to sell me supplies at Amazon prices or less — and with smiles and encouragement.

As you can see, I need a larger space, a tent with shelves, a gallery, something, to hold all of my things.

I only had 6 feet across and brought way too many prints. My table and chairs were borrowed from a neighbor, and I brought Halloween candy for visitors. I ended up eating them for breakfast and lunch. I’ve been in a lot of shows over the years, but there was a very long gap. My last show was called Essential and it was a group show in a space in Chelsea. Since then I had a baby, moved three times, had a 9-5 during COVID, and have been ramping up my weddings, portraits, and headshots. I was doing a lot of art reproduction for companies such as Gagosian Gallery, Southeby’s and the Hall Art Collection. My work was published in some books. But now after 14 years, I was able to present my art to the world again.


It was so gratifying to have people really look at my work — not just glance, but stop, flip through, connect. I ended up selling a record number of photographs.

One person lingered over my coastal California series and said, “You’re speaking my language,” before buying a print of two surfers watching the waves at dawn in Half Moon Bay.

Another woman picked up a cityscape and told me she’s an art collector. She insisted I sign it.

I was exuberant. Creating art is at the heart of my existence. When people connect with it and choose to hang it in their homes — it feels like I’m contributing to the world in the way I’m truly meant to.

Another highlight is that I got to know a woman picking out a necklace from a vendor next to me. I’m kind of obsessed with color analysis so it was really fun for me to determine she was a bright winter and really needed to get the green necklace. She turned out to be a Tribeca gallery owner. After she picked out the necklace she took a long look at my collection and took my card.

NYC Headshots

Sometimes you do a headshot and have a special bond with the subject. This young actor - and singer and dancer - had something special. There was an energy, passion, intelligence, and nuance that was shining through. I know that this incredible human will soar.

My FIRST Wedding

I’m so excited to be getting back into weddings. I did one last year and am starting to book them for 2026. One is in the Picnic House in Brooklyn and I’m so excited. The one this week is at City Hall. Classic. There’s not much better than wandering around downtown doing wedding pictures. And then there’s Central Park, which is always so swoon.

REACH out to me

I know most of you personally. Reach out to me and let me know how you’re doing! I miss hearing from you.

Hidden Central Park Wedding Photo Locations | NYC Elopement Photographer

Hidden Central Park Wedding Photo Locations | NYC Elopement Photographer

Couple photographed in quiet section of Central Park during intimate NYC elopement.

Central Park Conservatory Garden wedding in spring

Best Hidden Spots for Central Park Wedding Photos


There are parts of Central Park most visitors never see — quieter corners that feel surprisingly private in the middle of New York City. These spots are ideal for engagement sessions, intimate weddings, and elopements where couples want the beauty of the park without crowds.

I often guide couples toward lesser-known locations where the light, architecture, and greenery create a cinematic backdrop while still keeping the experience relaxed. For destination couples especially, these hidden areas offer a distinctly New York atmosphere without the chaos people expect.

If you’re planning an NYC elopement or engagement session, choosing the right Central Park location makes all the difference in how natural the photos feel.

Spring wedding couple in the Central Park Conservatory Garden

Wedding in spring in the Central Park Conservatory Garden

Why Couples Choose Central Park Elopements

Eloping in Central Park is an obvious choice, it provides iconic NYC views and at the same time serenity so that you can be truly in the moment. And after the ceremony, it’s just a quick jaunt to other landmarks in the city.

Most tourists go to the portion of Central Park below 96th Street. However, if you have an extra day and want to explore further, go where the tourists rarely venture, to the Conservatory Garden located at 104th and 5th. It’s such a zen place, complete with a crabapple allée as they call it — they even make crabapples sound fancy — an epic entry gate called the Vanderbilt Gate that I just want to hug; an English Garden on the south side (my favorite and featured in the pictures on this post); a beautiful fountain in the Italian section and otherworldly floral displays and statues on the north side, the French garden. It’s like visiting Europe without the lines at the airport.

Weddings in Central Park can be chaotic. Have you ever seen lines of brides on a weekend at the Bow Bridge? I have. This place is a quiet, tucked-in oasis. As my teen would say, it has Max Aura.

Plan Your NYC Elopement with Photos first

Aside from the date, the officiant and the permit — and of course an outfit — you don’t need much more for an NYC Elopement in the Conservatory Garden. Contact me first so we can plan out the photo shoot, My favorite spot is the Burnett Fountain, located at one end of a water lily pool in the Conservatory Garden’s English-style garden. “The Burnett Fountain is a memorial to the children’s book author Frances Hodgson Burnett (1849–1924), known for her novels The Secret Garden, Little Lord Fauntleroy, and A Little Princess.” It’s on the south side, and it’s where a lot of couples have their ceremony because of many things, but especially THAT gorgeous tree, pictured above. A lot of people love getting married under a magestic tree.

To be honest, most of the weddings I did there were destination weddings, of couples traveling from abroad. Since fewer people are traveling to the US these days, I really hope locals will discover this little gem of a wedding venue.

A sweet Sample of Central Park Wedding Pics

I photographed my dear groom Carlos and his husband at the garden, and I only have a few pictures — long story. I asked for more, and he promised he’d send them to me. For now, voila! Carlos and I share a love for Gloria Estefan and he’s just a wonderful person. Full gallery coming soon I hope. These are also wonderful because the officiant is one of my favorite people, Reverend Annie.

NYC Destination Wedding Inspiration | Central Park Portraits & Russian Tea Room Reception

Planning a Destination Wedding in New York City

Destination weddings in New York have a very specific energy — iconic but still personal. This celebration started with portraits in Central Park and ended with a reception that felt classic without feeling dated.

The Classic Manhattan Reception Venue to bookmark

Couples coming to NYC want images that balance city atmosphere with authenticity. They want recognizable locations, but moments that still feel relaxed and natural with an editorial flair. Pairing outdoor portraits with a historic reception space like Capitale NYC keeps things visually interesting while staying logistically simple.

If you’re planning a destination wedding here, thoughtful location choices make the entire experience feel intentional rather than overwhelming. City Hall Weddings are wonderful, but having the open air and endless photoshoot options make Central Park a winning choice too.

Pink roses at a Central Park wedding at the Cop Cot
woman in purple dress

Bridesmaid In an NYC limousine

Bride and her maid of honor in a limousine in NYC

Bride and her maid of honor in New York

The Cop Cot Wedding Where I fell But Got Up Again

I had a little mishap during this wedding. I lost my footing and went flying into the limousine minibar, which was made of a very hard plastic, bake lite, and I had a camera in each hand of which I refused to let go. I ended up breaking my nose and getting two black eyes. There was blood everywhere, but luckily not on the bride’s white dress, only on the bridesmaids’ purple ones (see above pictures for the purple dress). I’m so grateful purple is ever a popular color for weddings, because you never know when you will splatter blood and it blends just perfectly.

A quick-thinking guest took a can of chilled coke and put it on my nose. The bridesmaids didn’t act vexed, just wiped off the blood with seltzer water and a napkin. The mother of the bride handed me some pills. I had no idea what they were, but I took four. The father asked if I needed an ambulance. I was confused. Why would I? I have a wedding to photograph!

Bride and father smile at her Central Park wedding

Bride and Father of the Bride walk down to her Cop Cot wedding in Central Park

The day went by, the wedding was lovely. It took place in a special little nook of Central Park called the Cop Cot, “a small wooden shelter built in 1984—one of several Central Park rustic structures created with rough-hewn logs in intricate designs.” After the ceremony, I ran into the bathroom at Bethesda Fountain. When I saw myself in the mirror I couldn’t believe my eyes (that’s a double entendre). By then they were swollen shut, and I was a complete mess. No wonder I was having trouble focusing and had a horrible headache.

They kept saying I could go home, and now I understand why. I replied, “Are you kidding, I’ve done this so many times I can do it with my eyes closed.” And so I did, just barely making out the fountain, the Bow Bridge, and all of the other lovely places we took pictures. I don’t even remember being at Lincoln Center but I have pictures to prove it. Then, we headed over to the Russian Tea Room for the reception.

Wedding Couple at the Russian Tea Room Reception with their guests

Wedding Reception at The Russian Tea Room NYC

Central Park Portrait Locations Couples Love

This wedding was at the Cop Cot. You have so many choices though. Central Park has so many spots, my favorite being the classic spots, like the Conservatory Garden, Bethesda Fountain and the steps and arch, the bow bridge and Ladies Pavillion. However, wherever you wander in the park, you’ll find beauty, magic, architectural wonder as backdrops. You really can’t go wrong!

Guests at a Central Park Wedding at the Cop Cot in NYC

This wedding was planned by Claire from WedinCentralPark.com.

In other news, Google is Back and this is HUGE

My Google Business page is up and running again!

Now, couples, I’m here for you. It’s only a matter of time before I start doing destination wedding photography in New York again! I used to get so many calls from couples from all over the world.

NYC Maternity Photography | Natural Pregnancy Portraits in the City

Central Park Maternity Photography: Quiet Moments in the Middle of New York

Couple maternity photo shoot on the bow bridge in Central Park

Best NYC Locations for Maternity Photos

Maternity photography in New York City works best when it feels natural and personal. Whether photographed outdoors, at home, or in studio, the goal is relaxed portraits that reflect this transitional moment without feeling overly posed.

When to Schedule Pregnancy Photos

My Approach

My full-on documentary style comes to the fore when I photograph pregnant women. I tend to use my vintage cameras with gritty film and black and white. I like to take the pictures indoors. It’s just what inspires me. Are you a mom to be? Do you want me to photograph you in a soft, but real way? Many clients choose locations meaningful to them such as neighborhoods, parks, or their own homes. Contact me! This gallery is so special to me.

When to Book

The best time for pictures is seven to eight months (28-34 weeks). With twins, maybe a little earlier. However it truly depends on you! As you can see, some of my moms decided to wait until the late 30-week period to take their pictures.

Visit the Maternity Gallery

Maternity pictures with clothing, a nice option too

Here are some more maternity portraits, these outdoors, fully-clothed, in Central Park on the Bow Bridge, Reservoir, and on a big rock in Central Park. Some people don’t want to show their belly when they get their Maternity photos done, and that’s just fine with me! This couple simply wanted to look into the camera, mostly, and just beam with happiness and bask in the special time — all with a backdrop of some of the most special places in Central Park. Two of my favorite pictures in the gallery are the couple in front of the bathroom, more specifically the Delacorte Public Restroom. Certainly more beautiful than most restrooms, and definitely something overlooked during a photoshoot. But not with me. The other is the Ramble Stone Arch. A lot of people don’t go into Ramble for pictures, and it’s truly one of the hidden treasures of the park.

NYC, the most quiet place I've ever lived, spring updates

new york is so quiet

Unfiltered Sunset, Upper East Side, 2025

Here on the Upper East Side, we’re bordered by the East River; the oh-so-quiet East End Avenue, (unless you’re near Gracie Mansion during a mayoral scandal); a park and a school. My apartment is in a protected building, as it’s part of the National Register of Historic Places, and it’s tucked way back in a courtyard.

Unlike places like Northampton, where I heard leaf blowers or snow plows all day and people on the bike path at all hours; or LA, where I heard more leaf blowers, tree work, lawn mowers, cars and construction, this place is like living in a small cabin in the woods. Or more like a beachside cabana (the gentle hum of the FDR evokes the sound of waves). I am so grateful.

Washington Heights

181st Street Subway Station, NYC

Thing of Beauty, 181st Street Subway Station, 2025

I love going up to see friends and family in Washington Heights. It’s perched atop a hill and it has amazing views of the Hudson, George Washington Bridge and the Palisades. The architecture is beautiful. The picture above is a slice of history that gives me goosebumps.

The other night we went to a restaurant called Dutch Baby for the most obscure trivia night I’ve ever experienced. Unless you are an expert at celebrities’ birthdays, you wouldn’t have won either. I brought my 14-year-old sports expert to help, and of course there was not one single sports question. It was nice though. Culturally totally different than the Upper East Side. I felt like I went on an exotic vacation.

A trip downtown

When you live in NYC, there’s really every reason to get out of your neighborhood, wherever you are, no matter how great your neighborhood is. I know of so many stories of people who grow up here and have never left their borough.

I’m convinced that you could visit different neighborhoods for years and still discover fantastic new ones. The other day my older son and I were wandering downtown and we happened across a place near Elizabeth Street Community Garden called Lovely Day. We’ve been in that area lots of times, but it was the first time we came across the restaurant.

If you are nostalgic for your 20s as a Gen Xer or are in your 20s longing for simpler, cooler times, this place is a must. They played alternative music from the 90s and the pad thai was served on bakelite dishes. It was cozy and the servers wore baggy jeans. The inexpensive-for-New York bill came, not on a Square or any other device, but on this carbon paper.

Receipt, Lovely Day, NYC, 2025

Ready for BLOSSOMS?

I want to share some pictures of blossoms that you can order prints of if you want. I used color gels and a light box. People like them printed on metallic paper, metal and canvas. Click this link to order. Take a look! April is also that magical window in NYC where you really need to get outside for family pictures.

And related, I’m organizing some artist events where there will be visual art and music, and hopefully some comedy as well! Stay tuned, New York people. By the way, the picture of the woman below is during spring. Those aren’t clumps of snow, they’re blossoms!

New Work

Lately, I’ve been photographing a range of projects. I recently worked with a doctor that needed pictures for his website. I also photographed a family at Carl Schurz Park—what made it more special was that I had photographed their wedding over a decade ago.

On the Upper West Side, I photographed a couple of headshots recently, and, big news, I photographed a beauty pageant winner! We have a second shoot coming up.

I do editorial style headshots, content creation and dating pictures

After years of taking pictures and people starting to ask casually, “could you take some video with my iPhone, too? Here, just a few clips.” I realize that I’m not just a photographer but a content creator helping brands. I will help grow your brand. Develop your confidence, turn your side hustle into a real income stream, expand your audience and fulfill your dreams. And as an aside, lots and lots of people come to me for a LinkedIn AND a dating site picture.

This Spring, in addition to the beauty pageant winner, I’ll be photographing a baptism, a traditional Korean birthday celebration, a gala for a non-profit and another family session in Fort Tryon Park.

Also coming soon to NYC, a multi-media art show. Stay tuned.

Always a bridesmaid

As you ALL know, I do weddings with all of the love. Message me if you or anyone you know is getting married in New York. I’d love to hear from them!

And last but most important, how are you doing? I love nothing more than hearing back from you. Be well. xo

Elizabeth Solaka Photography, back in NYC

Hello! I moved again. This time, unbelievably, back to New York City.

Home, the Upper East Side.

In the last four years I've moved twice. I've had the opportunity to get rid of things I don't need, meet new, wonderful people, reunite with friends and family on the West Coast, and take pictures in new spaces. Breathe new air. If you think taking vacations gives you new perspectives, try moving! Or, if you don't like the stress of it all, just go on vacation.

Where have you been, Elizabeth?

After many years of living in Northampton, MA, we moved to Los Angeles for two years. The remnants of those Covid lockdown days (now feeling like ancient history) were still lingering in Northampton, and we needed to breathe new air. So, we packed our bags, left the return date open, and called it an extended "working vacation." I worked, but it still felt like a vacation.

Huntington Library Cactus Garden, swoon.

LA Years

It was lovely. Something was blossoming at all times. A purple tree, some gorgeous bush that looks like it should be at the bottom of the ocean, roses, a cool cactus, it was all over-the-top. Southern Cali, you sure are a great beauty and a show-off! What we see on the East Coast for a few weeks of the year, you display all year round. And not to mention the snow-capped mountains in winter, the rocky majestic coast, all of it. And miraculously, while we were there, there were no wildfires, no major earthquakes, and tons of rain.

Huntington Library Cactus Garden after a storm is swoon.

We had a great time. We went to Joshua Tree twice, Venice Beach and Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook at least twice a week, Huntington Library Gardens, pictured above after a glorious storm), San Francisco. twice, and clocked in essentially zero miles on our odometer due to the fact that we lived in Culver City, where everything was accessible by foot. We celebrated birthdays and holidays with family and friends. We even had a family trip to Montana's Glacier National Park.

Out the window from the Amtrak from Glacier National Park to Seattle.

My kid loved the basketball rec league at the local Y, and little league at Bill Botts Field, where he played atop a hill with an incredible view of the city and mountains. We took our little sports-lover to UCLA and Clippers basketball, USC football, and baseball games to watch the Angels (Thank you, Max!) and Dodgers (thank you, Rachel and Chad!), as well as minor league games in San Bernardino multiple times to watch our family friend pitch. On the professional front, the images I captured were next to none.

And I loved the drive (I can’t believe I’m saying that I loved a drive, but c’mon it was the Pacific Coast Highway.) to my favorite spot, Malibu Beaches where we always ended our beach day at Pita 'Bu.

Joshua Tree, double swoon.

Despite all of that, we left. And abruptly. And I’m not gonna lie; it ached a little bit.

Back in NYC

Why did we move back to the Upper East Side? It all started this past Mother's Day in LA. I was blasting Neil Diamond (as one does), when suddenly, my older son appeared at my doorstep from New York. No warning, no text—just there.

It did something to me, physically. (He apologized.) I realized how much I missed him, and how nice it was to see the two brothers together. Playing ping pong, joking around in the jacuzzi at night. Playing Geo-guesser. It means so much to me to see them together.

Then there was the FOMO. Watching my son carve out his adult life in NYC from afar was hard, I'll admit. New York has always been my true north, the backdrop of my parenting life, and my professional headquarters. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve flopped onto my bed and cried, New York is the only place I’m ever truly at home!

So here we are. Back in the chaos, back in the magic that is the greatest city on earth. Does my younger son miss LA? Yes, it was a vibe. It was sigma, bussin' and it had 'rizz. I feel incredibly grateful that we're even able to experience both cities. He's getting used to it though the public high school application process and his abysmal lottery number hasn’t helped.

Before we made the big move (by airplane with 9 suitcases) I had to be physically present to sign the lease, so I did a 24-hour round trip from LA to do so. It was so jarring, surreal. I didn't even feel like I remembered how to cross the street! Wait, people cross against the light? Which way are the cars going? Why are the streets so narrow? I arrived before the leasing office opened, and got a coffee at the old bodega. Walked to the old park along the East River. The trees were bigger, and there were more of them. Things were fancier, but the same. I was home.

The Future is Unwritten. Help Me Write It.

So now, it's time for me to rebuild my photo business here in NYC. Photography is still my strongest skill. Google removed my business page and I'm still trying to figure out how to fix that. Until then, I'm open for business. This is where you come in. Let your NYC friends or visiting friends know that I’m here for their events or photo sessions. And, if you’re ever “in the City” please give me a call! Because I’m not traveling anymore. : )

I wish you the happiest of holidays, and hope that you'll reach out and let me know how things are going. I shared my story of the past 3 years, and I really want to hear yours. x, ES

Near home.

NYC Central Park Headshot

Snapshot of a friend and her daughter

BTS at the Top of the Rock (I was a doing video and content creation and snapped this with my phone.)

Central Park Wedding

Nah I don’t like being back at all. : ) photo credit A. Hartstein

My local park after dark.

Some wedding photographs

so many pictures

Uggh I am so bad about providing updates. My son graduated college and the other one 6th grade. I’m so proud of both. My life and heart is full. I’ve been doing portraits and some other private photo assignments. I have so many pictures to share, however I was distracted by this older wedding from a couple of years ago, that I started to show in my last post. I have so may pictures that I don’t share, and want to. Do you ever feel like life is moving so fast, it’s hard to document everything?

Why I photograph weddings, and some others won't (click for more)

Why photograph weddings?

I know so many photographers who refuse to do weddings. They say it’s too emotionally-charged, too fast-paced, too personal, too repetitive, too risky, and uncontrollable, and too labor-intensive. Those, my friends, are precisely all of the reasons I love to photograph weddings.

Aren’t weddings too emotionally-charged?

Yes, and that’s what draws me to them. I laugh and cry at every wedding. There are unexpected emotions that come up during weddings, and I’m there for all of it.

Aren’t weddings too fast-paced?

When I do commercial shoots, the art directors and teams always say, “You’re so fast!” At a wedding, you’re moving from a dark room, to a bright exterior, and then back inside; you’re asked to switch from photographing dancing, to small details, to setting up a family portrait in a matter of seconds. You have to be technically adept and at a moment’s notice.

It’s my job to work at the speed of a snapshot, with the quality of a studio photographer.
  • Secret passion: vintage photos. I shoot film and my assistant shoots digital. For all of us I’d say that’s a win-win. Inquire about this package.

  • We also provide video, and live social feed posting.

  • Normally I can’t commit that far ahead of time, but now I can.












new studio space, photo news, and the food report (click for more)

Great news!

I found a studio!

Well, I’ve been searching for a photo studio, and visited a few spaces. I wanted something with natural light, preferably from more than one window angle, and high ceilings, with a private space for outdoor pictures. I wanted something warm and welcoming, something on the Westside, and something close to where I am. I found it. It checked off all of the boxes and I can’t wait to set it up and show you pictures. It’s only about 15 by 20 feet, and it will definitely work for single portraits, headshots, full body, and small groups.

I’ve been taking pet photos!

Recently, I photographed my cousin’s beautiful kids with two horses and two dogs; a couple with three very adorable and well-behaved dogs on a golf course; and a family of four humans and three large not so well-behaved dogs (they were very sweet, just energetic.) The animals so far, have outnumbered the humans on my photo shoots. Eight humans and 10 pets. Will this be a trend?

I’ve been eating a lot!

The other piece of great news, is that I’ve had the privilege to explore some restaurants.

I loved Destroyer, an utterly chic lunch/coffee spot in the Hayden Tract. Mizlala is a no-fuss, fun falafel place in West Adams. I actually went there twice. La Flama got average reviews, but it was my family’s favorite (Oaxacan) Mexican place so far (We’ve tried several). Such nice people, too. I went on a work dinner Sestina, a heart and brainchild of chef Matthew Kenney, “one of the world’s first leading chefs at the forefront of plant-based cuisine.” In a (very unsophisticated) word (for very sophisticated food): yum. I did go to a French restaurant that got almost 5 stars, but I’d give it one. Moral of the story, don’t believe reviews.

Happy Holidays, Everyone!


Elizabeth Korelitz
headshots and basketball

I have a new strategy to help people combat inflation and still be able to get the amazing headshots they need for their promo cards, book covers, or linkedin (or tinder) profile. I keep it short and keep the price down, because there are very few people who want to pose for pictures for more than 15 minutes. So I keep them there for 20, just to be sure we get what they need. This session lasted a little longer, because there was a wardrobe change and we talked a lot, but was still well inside an hour.

I’m super inspired by author headshots. This one was quick and affordable. I normally don’t use much natural light, especially bright sun, but this was an author headshot and seemed to work. We were in back of Iconica, a coffee shop +. If you haven’t been there, and are local to Northampton, be sure to visit. It’s closed now, but even when it’s closed, it’s worth a visit. The care that went into decorating the outdoors was something I never noticed until this headshot. It’s steampunk, it’s upcycle-y - it’s like this person spent a lifetime perusing thrift shops, yard sales, dumpsters, architectural ruins, lost cities and interesting people’s attics to curate a multi-sensory experience. There’s actually a table made of carefully selected aged-wood with a similarly aged metal frame out there that I’m shocked nobody has stolen. Here are some pictures from this speedy shoot where the author was able to scurry out with some useful pictures. Not sure which ones he used, but I like these.

The most rewarding part of my job is meeting people. In this case, I got to meet this delightful person, and his spouse and furry child, an adorable chihuahua. (How I spelled chihuahua correctly is truly a miracle).

Finally, my youngest child loves sports, especially Boston sports. Just started watching basketball with the family over the last 3 years starting during the pandemic. The Boston Celtics pulled off an incredible win last night. I’ve never witnessed the Celtics win a buzzer beater, and they did it with one of their best players on the injured list. They unconventionally punted on the opportunity to use a time-out on their last possession with around 10 seconds left in the game. It was Marcus Smart*, who made the very smart move to pass to Jayson Tatum who did a spin around layups to in the game at 0.1 seconds. If it had all happened 0.1 seconds slower, or if JT missed that difficult shot, they would have lost the game. Marcus oh so Smart said after the game (I’m paraphrasing), “I tell my team that when they think I don’t see them, that’s when I see them most. Nobody expected the fake/pass.”

They have a long series ahead of them. The Nets are a great team. There’s also a lot of tension because the Celtics fans have venom for former Celtic now Nets player Kyrie Irving. Irving actually gave fans ‘the finger’ multiple times during the game. He didn’t get ejected or fined for it. Anyway, it’s my wish that all of that stops. Stop booing (besides being rude, it’s not even helping - he played a great game) and stop with the fingers. It’s bad vibes all around. Happy Spring everyone. Get out there and do what you do. xo.

Senior photo

*Marcus Smart was just named the Defensive Player of the Year. But evidenced by his incredible assist last night, his offense isn’t so shabby, either.

Elizabeth Korelitz
the blogosphere

In the corner of my sun-filled living room, I saw a round object covered in dust. I walked over to it and did like they do in the movies. I blew on it. Dust went everywhere; the room became a sunny glowing cloud. The object that I found was a blogosphere that I had almost forgotten about. I now work in digital media and it seems more than ever the place where I live. I see the world through my phone and the social channels. But I do remember the days when things were different. Screens were bigger and we were able to find content rather than receive it in our feed. If you’re here, you found me. And for this reason I’ll have fun sharing things that I don’t share on social. Like the pictures below. And more personal stories. J Mascis says that the only social media he uses is Strava and that he’s gone almost 5,000 miles on his bike. Sounds fun.

Togetherness

I just spoke to a potential client today. She’s getting married. One of the questions she asked was*, “I know you do weddings, but what do you really love to photograph.” Usually it’s, “do you have an assistant” (no) or ‘can you show me an entire wedding gallery.’ (no). I loved this question. I answered, “There are things about weddings that don’t exist anywhere else: the clothes and dressing up; and the togetherness- usually only for weddings do people travel from all over the country and sometimes the world to be together.” A couple of more times in the conversation the person used the word togetherness. She helped me realize that togetherness is one of the big reasons why I do weddings.

Then, I said that I also love portraits/people photos. And that I really don’t do landscapes much. But I forgot all about my flowers and my abstractions (see above) that I had so much fun doing in early 2021. And I forgot to tell her about how I love to write. How I love to paint. How I even make music sometimes. It wasn’t a conversation about me. It’s about her special event where everyone will be together.

Peacocks

There have been many lowlights this year, but I’m going to hang on to the pinprick of a highlight that occurred during the NCAA basketball tournament. St. Peter’s College (in Jersey City) made it to the Elite Eight. They didn’t have money, or legacy, but they were cool and confident and they surprised everyone. I did photography through Erbach Communications for St. Peter’s for a couple of years when I lived in Jersey City. When they won, I celebrated and reconnected with my JC friends. Jersey City’s rents went up more than any city in the country since 2020, so I guess they didn’t put Jersey City on the map. But they sure did make a lot of people proud.

*quotes are paraphrased




Elizabeth Korelitz
End of Year Wrap

This was such a thrill for him to sit in the bull pen with the team.

at Cornell

I always thought 2021 would be a really special year. It has been for me, and I hope it’s been for you. It started out rough with hybrid learning. Then, it slowly got better. Summer came and the first thing we did is visit Emile in Ithaca. We also went to Cape Cod several times to watch the Cape Cod Baseball League. I camped for the first time, and did it alone with my younger son. We were all in good health. Nothing terrible happened. I like to punctuate the passing of time with pictures, so here are some below that were special highlights from this year.

I also want to invite you to order some prints of your own family, or choose from my art gallery. Here you will find reproductions of original photos. You’ll have lovely affordable art for your home or office. These can be gifts for yourself or for someone else. https://elizabethsolakaphotography.zenfolio.com/p175902758

I also made lots of blossom pictures that you can order to beautify your home or gift to someone, https://elizabethsolakaphotography.zenfolio.com/p483928320

Visually, I feel that my pictures for the coming year will be cooler, brighter, cleaner, more vibrant.

I wish this for all of you. A fresh new year, bright and vibrant.

Special person — generous beyond measure.

From a Chester Theatre Production

A nice backyard sunset.

Matthew is a bar mitzvah.

family fawning over adorable three month old girl in a sunroom.

My longtime clients had their first grandbaby. This picture is everything.

Wedding at the Hotel Northampton.

I photographed a most beautiful wedding evidenced by these most beautiful flowers, in Lincoln, MA.

Stunning family. Loved getting to know you.

There’s nothing better than grandparents reuniting with their grandkids after a long absence.

My son peers at a cool new informational sign by Soofa, and yes this kid is truly interested in the map.

Small business pictures for a new website. Michele Feldheim https://www.michelefeldheim.com/

Super excited for the young generation to take the reins, wield the gavel, and all that. Wonderful to meet you, Samantha.

Another family reuniting after a long time apart.

I provided pictures for the new Abundance Farm website: https://www.abundancefarm.org/

I did pictures for one of the most gracious, kind and relatable people I know, Keiko, https://keikomedium.com/

Trixie Garcia, daughter of Jerry Garcia, in a green flowered top and a colorful mask.

Trixie Garcia at a Garcia Hand-Picked event.

I love this picture.

I did a whole series of photos on this block, because of the cool reflections on the street. Soon after they paved the road so I guess these are extra special now.

What a joy to work with and get to know Candace.

I made lots of blossom pictures that you can order to beautify your home or gift to someone, https://elizabethsolakaphotography.zenfolio.com/p483928320