READING TIME: 3 min 15 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 05/16/2025
UPDATED: 05/16/2025
With a photojournalistic soul and an editorial eye, Sarah Rittenour has spent the last decade redefining what wedding photography can be. Her journey began long before she ever stepped into the wedding world, shaped by a deep-rooted love for storytelling, a family legacy of photography, and an early skepticism of the industry’s stereotypes. But once she discovered that weddings could be dynamic, emotionally charged, and unscripted—everything changed.
“If I'm honest, I never saw myself as a wedding photographer because of all those cheesy, sterile photos I was used to seeing from the industry,” Sarah shares. "Now, after 10 years of being in the business, I have discovered that modern weddings rarely resemble the boring, stuffy nightmares I'd been warned of in my photojournalism days."
Sarah’s connection to photography runs deep. Growing up surrounded by camera gear and photo albums, it was more than just a passing interest—it was a way of seeing the world.
“I've explored many different subjects on my journey,” she says. Her initial path in photojournalism taught her to value authenticity and the power of the “in-between” moments—the ones that can’t be staged or scripted. It’s a perspective that still shapes her wedding work today.
At the heart of Sarah’s work lies an effortless balance between raw emotion and elegant composition. She describes her approach as primarily photojournalistic/documentary with an editorial touch.
“I specialize in capturing honest images where you are truly in the moment (because you are!) rather than faking it,” she explains.
It’s this approach that allows couples to feel completely at ease in front of the camera. Sarah doesn't chase perfection—she captures presence.
Sarah proudly uses Canon gear, a brand that has been part of her story from the very beginning.
“I'm a Canon gal, mostly because that's the brand I grew up with (my dad and grandfather were both photography enthusiasts) but also because I think Canon's profiles are better at capturing various skin tones,” she notes.
For her, choosing the right gear isn’t just about sharpness or speed—it’s about honoring the individuality of every couple she photographs.
Sarah’s editing philosophy is grounded in respect—for the couple’s choices, their story, and the reality of their day. She describes her post-processing style as true-to-life, just a little enhanced.
“I know that couples often spend a lot of time selecting colors, flowers, and even their venue for how it looks and feels, and I want to preserve that rather than adding a filter that may alter how everything actually was on your wedding/elopement day,” she explains.
The result? Timeless, emotional imagery that reflects the day as it truly was.
Weddings are anything but predictable—and that’s exactly why Sarah loves them.
“I love the in-between, unexpected moments!” she says. “Weddings are so emotionally charged and there are so many things that happen throughout the day that no one can be prepared for.”
From heartfelt to hilarious, it’s these moments that often leave the biggest impression. “I love being surprised by grandma getting down on the dance floor or the silly nephew actually shedding a tear during a toast.”
Sarah’s process is rooted in genuine connection. Long before the first shutter click, she takes the time to understand each couple’s vision, comfort level, and priorities.
“I generally try to gauge how involved a couple wants me to be before the wedding, especially if they're not working with a planner,” she says. “Before a contract is even signed, I aim to already know what your priorities are... so when the wedding day finally arrives, I'm ready.”
She also understands that plans evolve. “I check in on those priorities closer to the actual wedding day, as well.”
Whether it’s helping craft a timeline or staying behind the scenes, Sarah adapts to what each couple needs—no more, no less.
Sarah is no stranger to travel. She's already photographed weddings in Baja California and is eager to expand further into Mexico.
As for her favorite place to visit? “On a personal note, my favorite destination to visit is Puerto Rico,” she says.
Her love of vibrant cultures and beautiful light translates seamlessly into her destination work, where she brings the same calm energy and visual poetry no matter the setting.
Sarah Rittenour isn’t in the business of trends or templates. Her mission is to create imagery that reflects the real, fleeting, powerful essence of a couple’s day. With a calm presence and a heart for unscripted beauty, she offers something rare in the wedding world: a lens that listens.
Explore Sarah’s portfolio on Wezoree and discover a photographer who isn’t just capturing images—but memories that feel exactly like you.
