I’m Wasim Ahmad. I used to be a writer for newspapers – and when this thing called “The Internet” changed the whole newspaper industry in the mid-2000s, for some reason the newspaper I worked at saw it fit to hand me a camera. I got lucky and came back with a few good shots and so the photo folks started to teach me a few things. I was hooked.
After a few years of feeling like I was photojournalizing “without a license,” I decided to double down on photography and get a master’s degree in the subject from Syracuse University. Best decision ever.
I’ve since moved on to teach photojournalism at Stony Brook University’s School of Journalism, have run and taught at photo and video workshops around the country, and have also been a trainer/educator for Canon EOS cameras with Canon USA.
I also like to pursue photography projects of passion – be it crafting the perfect portrait of my two-year-old son, covering major world events, or documenting one of the most important days of a young couple’s life – their wedding.
Whether you’re looking for a photographer for your event or photography needs, or looking to learn more about photography with a private lesson, I’d be happy to chat.
Questions? I’ll try to answer them here.
So why hire a professional photographer for your event?
Professionals know how to shoot in any environment, and bring the equipment and know-how to get the job done. When it’s a once-in-a-lifetime event, having experience makes the difference in getting the shot, and getting nothing.
At the end of the day, your photos are what will help you remember the event.
Got it. So why should I hire you?
I was at a wedding recently, where the bride, without any warning, ran out into the middle of a thunderstorm and across a golf course because she wanted a photo under a gazebo. Super cool idea. We followed them. But once they got there and the photo shooting part (in the rain) was done, they were a bit stuck under the gazebo in the pouring rain. I walked back to the building and got them and umbrella to walk back. Shot more pictures in the rain along the way. Because I’m a nice guy and your photos are more important to me than a little water on me (and my cameras). I just had my own wedding three years ago. I get how important the day is to you.
I’m going to make sure your photos are awesome and that your day is handled with care. I’ll be able to do that because my years of experience as a journalist help me understand how to work in a fast-paced situation with tight deadlines. I’ve covered fires, floods, protests and mayhem. These situations are not unlike a wedding day, actually.
So do you shoot in the “photojournalism style” for weddings?
Yes! But that doesn’t mean you won’t get the portraits and family pictures you want. Portraiture is one of my favorite parts of photography. I work closely with brides and grooms before the event to set aside a time and place for formal portraits, first looks and group shots with the family.
What types of photography do you do?
I specialize in wedding, location portraiture and event photography, though if you have something else in mind, feel free to get in touch! I’ve done a lot of work in many aspects of photography and might be able to help. And if I can’t, I probably know someone that can.
What is it going to cost to have you photograph my wedding or event?
Weddings are unique in that each brings different demands. That said, here’s a starting point for the services I offer – please keep in mind that the size, venue (or venues) and duration of the wedding means that we’d need to get in touch for an exact quote. I’m happy to meet you at a location that is convenient for you in the New York City or Long Island area.
If you are looking for photography for your (non-wedding) event, please contact me with the details for a quote.
–Wedding Packages–
Basic
6 hours of coverage
1 photographer
Digital delivery of high-resolution photos
starting at $3000
Deluxe
8 hours of coverage
2 photographers
Online gallery (password protected) and digital delivery of high-resolution photos
Two hour engagement session prior to wedding with digital delivery of high-resolution photos OR 5 13×19″ wedding prints of your choice
starting at $4250
Premium
10 hours of coverage
2 photographers
DVD with high-resolution photos
Online gallery (password protected) and digital delivery of high-resolution photos
Staffed reception photo booth
Two hour engagement session prior to wedding with DVD and digital delivery of high-resolution photos OR 5 13×19″ wedding prints of your choice
starting at $5500
If you have a destination wedding outside of NYC or Long Island, I’m happy to shoot those as well, just get in touch and we can chat about it!
–A La Carte Wedding Additions–
Staffed Reception Photo Booth: $1250
Additional hours of coverage: $300 per hour
Prints (up to 13″x19″): Please ask!
If you have made it this far, thanks for reading! I hope you’ll consider me for your photography needs – please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you are interested or have more questions.