ABOUT WADE SNIDER
The magic isn't in the perfect,
it's in the in-between
Hi, I’m Wade.
I’m a Lake Tahoe based wedding photographer who shoots in a style that’s raw, real, and film-inspired. My photos have a soft, nostalgic feel while keeping the colors real and raw. I utilize natural light, true to life colors, and tones that feel timeless without looking overly filtered.
I hate removing colors for the sake of trends, and I LOVE film. (Afga, Portra, Fuji, etc.)
I document the day as it actually happens, but I’ll give you just enough direction so you’re never left wondering what to do with your hands. My direction subtle and relaxed, and most of the time you won’t even notice it’s happening.
I want your wedding day to be fun and comfortable, not a stressful photo fest with millions of directions and commands. I WILL get the photos you’ll love with minimal interference.
I pride myself on capturing emotions. I am always on the hunt for hugs, tears, belly laughs, high fives, and loving embraces- the moments that feel like your wedding day, not a photoshoot.
I am based out of Lake Tahoe, but photograph weddings all across California and the west coast, the United States, and the world.
From San Diego to Oregon, Hawaii to Jamaica, and anywhere the light feels right. My work is rooted in connection, movement, fun.
We are going to have some fun.
FAQ
Do you pose couples?
I guide when you need it, but I’m not into stiff, awkward stuff. It’s more like: “Stand here. Do your thing.” I give gentle prompts and tell horrible jokes. 99% of my couples claim to be nervous in front of a camera. Personally, I’ve never seen it.
Do you travel for weddings?
Yep. Tahoe’s home, but I shoot all over California, the West Coast, and THE WORLD.
Do you shoot digital or film?
Digital, but with a film soul. My edits are inspired by Kodak, Fuji, Ilford, full of grain, glow, and mood.
How many photos do we get?
Enough to relive the whole day. I don’t cap it, I just cut the fluff and deliver what matters.
What’s your turnaround time?
About 6 weeks for the full gallery, but I send sneak peeks way sooner.
How do you handle lighting situations (dark venues, harsh sun, etc)?
Natural light is my thing, but I’m not scared of shadows or sun. I’ll make it work and make it beautiful. I am an expert with flashes and artificial lighting as well and always come prepared.
Do you work with a second shooter?
Yes and no. If you have a big wedding with a big family on a big venue, absolutely. For smaller, more intimate weddings I want to keep it more intimate. I’ll make sure we choose the right option for you!
Do you offer video as well?
I do offer a “special moments” package, where I record the CEREMONY, THE FIRST DANCE, AND THE SPEECHES for $1500. This is all with a fixed camera + audio. I can record more moments for an additional $350 per moment!
Do you photograph other types of events?
I mostly focus on weddings, but I also work for a local newspaper (www.moonshineink.com), photographing stories. I shoot large company events, and have been known to dabble in food photography with (www.ediblerenotahoe.com). Oh yah. I also photograph families.
Do you use AI to edit photos?
NO. Each wedding is different. Each wedding is carefully edited to reflect the feeling and the lighting of the day. I have a vibe that AI wants.
Do you recommend and venues?
Here’s what I do.
I show up with a camera, not an agenda.
I’m not here to make content for instagram. I’m here to take the best photographs possible. Honest ones.
The kind that feel like you.
I don’t use AI. I don’t hand your memories over to a machine.
Everything I deliver was edited, painstakingly by a human.
Not a robot. Not a trend. Not here to play a popularity game.
I’m not selling a vibe.
I’m not curating your wedding for likes.
I’m not yelling “yasss queen” or “slay.”
I’m not another vendor pretending to be your bestie while planning the next viral reel.
I’m your photographer. But by the end, I’ll most likely be your friend too.
I hate fire emojis.
I’ll help you breathe when the nerves hit.
I’ll fix your collar, your hair, your timeline.
I’ll step in when something’s off. I’ll disappear when it’s not, or I’ll stay and take a shot with you.
I’m not a “wedding pirate” or self proclaimed “different and wacky” with “a drink in one hand and a flash in the other.”
Yes, I’ll be on the dance floor. I love the dance floor photos. My clients do too.
Because the joy is real and I like real.
No trendy filters. No staged moments dressed up to look “candid.”
No edits that will make you cringe in five years.
Just the truth.
This isn’t about trends.
It’s about care and having great photos.
And making something that lasts.
…Excuse me while I breathe.
Still here? Let’s make something beautiful.
No pressure. Just great photos and good vibes.