New York-based Parker Selman of Parker’s Pictures specialises in capturing the essence of weddings and elopements through the lens of medium format and 35mm cameras, as well as Super 8 film. She focuses on the authentic, in-between moments and strives to create a story that truly reflects the atmosphere, emotions, and individuality of each event. Parker’s Pictures travels worldwide and her ethos is based around generating timeless, genuine, narrative-based images.
What would you like couples to know about you?
I grew up in the house my great-grandparents built that had the remnants of their darkroom in the basement. I was curious about the medium and started taking film photography classes as soon as I could and developed a deep love for the process and intentionality of film. Now when I am not shooting weddings I spend time traveling with my fiancé, dog and family.
Where are you based?
I live in New York City but travel consistently to the Bay Area and Sun Valley, Idaho where my family is based.
Do you travel for weddings?
Traveling for work is something that I find extremely inspiring and I am excited to tackle Australia, Costa Brava, New Orleans the Cotswolds and Lake Tahoe as new destinations in 2025.
How would you describe your style?
Editorial authenticity with a grainy, timeless flair.
What is your most memorable career moment?
The first wedding I traveled for was in remote Maine. It was a three day celebration in Acadia National Park and the couple had all their guests (and myself) stay in their friends cabins around the island so there was a real sense of community. I was completely immersed in the world they had created that long weekend. Every moment felt like magic and it was the first wedding the couple had encouraged me to shoot entirely on film. It was the moment I knew I was in the right profession and that I wanted to shoot weddings for the rest of my life.
In my career there have been the big on paper moments - getting published for the first time, being named one of Rangefinder’s 30 Rising Stars of 2024 but the things I find most memorable are the moments of connection that I witness and am a small part of at each wedding that make each day unique.
What inspires you?
First and foremost, I am moved by love stories. I have always been an enormous romantic and never get tired of witnessing the passion of a wedding day. I am further inspired by silhouettes and shadows, reflections and mirrors, window panes and door frames, genuine laughter and clandestine glances, 1950’s black and white photography, the ritual of preparing for an event, authentic interactions between family and friends, and raucous dance floors to end the evening.
How would you describe your working style?
It is important to me that my couples feel natural on their wedding day. I never give couples prescriptive poses, instead I encourage them to interact in a way that feels genuine which leads to images that resonate and reflect their relationship. The couples I work with place a huge emphasis on being present throughout their day and my number one goal is to create that trust so that they can relax and truly enjoy the festivities.
Do you shoot digitally, on film or both?
My approach is built around a deep love and appreciation for film photography. I shoot almost entirely on film and shoot a combination of medium format and 35mm cameras. I typically am switching between 7-10 cameras on a wedding day. I always work with a digitally focused second shooter so that key moments are captured across multiple cameras.
Do you have custom packages according to individual needs?
Absolutely! I view weddings as an extremely collaborative experience and all of my packages have room to be customized. One of my favorite parts of the pre-wedding process is working with couples to decide which of my cameras create images that resonate, and which film stocks stand out to them.
What is a favourite product or service that you offer and why?
Film has a quick turn-around time and I am able to provide all my couples with ~150 images within one week, which allows them to quickly reminisce on the highlights of their day.
Where would you love to travel to for work?
I am incredibly inspired by visiting new places and countries. There are truly too many dream destinations to name. I majored in Spanish undergrad - so any opportunity to practice and hone my language skills is something I look forward to. I lived in Madrid for a year and would be incredibly honored to shoot a wedding there someday. Other places I have loved visiting include Lake Garda, Provence, Tuscany, Paris and Amsterdam.
Who is your dream client?
A couple with a unique vision, a genuine connection, a strong sense of personal style and an appreciation for film photography.
What is your advice to couples getting married?
Infuse as much of yourself, your passions and your love story into your wedding day and the event will be a memorable and personal one. Also find vendors you trust wholeheartedly, so that you have the capacity to truly celebrate your day.
Parker's Pictures
Website: parkerspictures.com
Instagram: @parkers.pictures