ABOUT WADE SNIDER
The magic isn't in the perfect,
it's in the in-between... or something like that.
Hi, I’m Wade.
I’m a Lake Tahoe based wedding photographer but I’m always traveling. My market ranges from Lake Tahoe to Santa Cruz. I shoot in Coloma, Placerville, Auburn, and San Francisco as well as Hawaii, Montana, and everywhere else. I photograph in a style that’s real and film-inspired. My photos have a soft, nostalgic feel while keeping the colors natural and raw. I rep natural light, true to life colors, and tones that feel timeless without looking overly filtered.
If you’re hiring me, most likely you are getting married in a beautiful location. I capture that. I layer your love with the landscape. If you want a close up of your lips touching, sure I do that, but what I excel in is capturing your love blending seamlessly with nature.
I hate removing colors for the sake of trends and I hate making everything orange.
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 is 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 live in Santa Cruz and spend most of my Summer in Lake Tahoe. I photograph weddings all across California and the west coast, the United States, and the world.
We are going to have a splendid time together.
Still here? Let’s make something beautiful.
No pressure. Just great photos and good vibes.
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.