A Lifetime Behind the Lens
Planning a wedding in South Florida? Choosing the right vision and style begins with the heart of your team—especially your photographer. As a South Florida wedding photographer, I believe that every image should do more than document your day: it should breathe emotion, capture authenticity, and reflect your unique story. In this post, I’ll share what makes my approach different, how years of experience shape my technique, and why couples in the South trust me to turn fleeting moments into art.

A quiet, beautiful moment — the bride takes a breath and flips through a magazine in her bridal suite before stepping into her gown.
My name is Jeff Kolodny, and I’ve been holding a camera since I was 13 years old. My love for photography started long before I ever photographed a wedding in South Florida — it began with family slideshow nights in my childhood living room. My dad was a talented amateur photographer, and every few weeks he’d pull out the projector and show our family vacations on a big white screen.

Vroom Vroom at The Boca Raton Hotel
Those evenings weren’t just about pictures; they were about storytelling. My father taught me to look at an image and ask, What makes this photo powerful? I learned early on that lighting, timing, and emotion could transform a simple snapshot into something unforgettable.
That early education shaped who I am today — a South Florida wedding photographer who never misses a moment and treats every image as a piece of art.
Growing Up with Kodachrome
Back in the film days, photography wasn’t easy. The film of choice was Kodachrome, a medium so rich and vibrant that entire songs and even movies have been made about Kodachrome. Kodachrome demanded perfection — exposure, focus, and timing all had to be exact. There was no “fixing it in Photoshop.”
When I first started shooting weddings on film, every single frame cost money. The cost of film and processing for a typical wedding was around $600 — that meant every click of the shutter had to count. I couldn’t afford to take 10 versions of the same image “just to be safe.” Instead, I learned to anticipate emotion, see light instantly, and compose in real time.
That kind of discipline doesn’t disappear when technology changes. Even now, with modern digital cameras, I bring that same precision and care to every wedding I photograph in South Florida. Each image I create still needs to be worthy of its moment.
BELOW: I captured this picture on film, Actually Kodak Professional Portra 400 while photographing a wedding in Avignon, France.

While photographing this wedding in Avignon, France, I found myself documenting not just the couple—but also their story being interpreted by an artist friend who sketched each scene as it unfolded. It was a perfect blend of love, art, and timeless beauty.
Why Technical Mastery Still Matters
Photography has changed dramatically since the film days. Today, anyone can buy a high-resolution camera and call themselves a photographer. But true professional photography — the kind that beautifully captures your once-in-a-lifetime moments — requires mastery far beyond pressing a button.
As a seasoned South Florida wedding photographer, I bring decades of technical knowledge to each wedding I shoot. I understand how aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and lighting all work together to shape the look and feel of an image.
That means I can adapt instantly — whether I’m shooting a sunset ceremony on the beach, a candlelit ballroom reception, or a rainy-day indoor first look. I know how to make every environment look stunning.
BELOW: Technically, this image was captured using the Fujifilm GFX 50S II, part of Fuji’s medium format camera system. Medium format cameras feature image sensors that are significantly larger than those found in even the most advanced professional DSLRs. This larger sensor produces unmatched sharpness, tonal range, and depth — qualities that make every frame look rich and cinematic. While brands like Nikon and Canon make exceptional cameras, few systems can rival the resolution and dynamic quality of Fuji’s medium format technology.
This shot was taken at 1/8 of a second, a slow shutter speed that allowed me to capture the graceful motion blur of the bride spinning in her dress. By stabilizing the camera against my body — effectively using myself as a tripod — I could keep the bridesmaids’ reactions tack-sharp while the bride’s movement remained soft and fluid. A touch of electronic flash helped freeze just enough detail to balance the blur.
At ISO 1000, this image remains crisp and clean, with minimal grain — thanks to the GFX’s massive sensor. For me, photography is about combining technical mastery and creative vision to transform real moments into unforgettable art.

A joyful “first look” moment — the bride twirls in excitement as her bridesmaids react with pure delight. Captured by South Florida wedding photographer Jeff Kolodny at the Renaissance Hotel Plantation.
Beyond the Camera: The Human Side of Wedding Photography
Over the years, I’ve learned that great photography isn’t just about technical skill — it’s about connection. When I arrive at a wedding, my job is to document not just what happens, but how it feels.
That means understanding family dynamics, reading emotions, and making everyone comfortable in front of the camera. Before I even start photographing, I take time to learn about the couple’s family — who’s who, who’s close, and which relationships need extra attention.
In South Florida, weddings often bring together large, diverse families — sometimes with step-parents, blended siblings, or loved ones flying in from across the country. I make sure everyone important is represented beautifully. You’ll see photos like:
- The bride with her mom, dad, and step-parents (in ways that feel natural and respectful)
- The groom laughing with his best friends
- Generations of family in one beautiful frame
These are not “optional” shots. They are the heart of your wedding story.
BELOW: This black-and-white image beautifully captures an emotional first look between a bride and her father moments before the ceremony at Parkland Country Club in South Florida. The bride, holding a delicate bouquet of roses, stands facing her father—who is just beginning to open his arms for an embrace. His expression shows a mix of pride, joy, and emotion as he sees his daughter as a bride for the first time.
Photographed by Jeff Kolodny, an experienced South Florida wedding photographer, this moment was carefully orchestrated to ensure authenticity. Using a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with a Canon EF 70–200mm f/2.8 lens, Jeff chose a 1/400 sec shutter speed at f/6.3 to freeze this fleeting, emotional instant with sharp clarity and perfect exposure. The ISO 500 setting allowed for crisp detail and tonal depth without introducing noise—making every thread in the bride’s dress and every strand of her hair visible.
The lighting, composition, and timing all work together to tell a story that goes far beyond a posed photograph. It reflects a universal truth: the father-daughter bond is one of the most powerful emotional threads in any wedding day. This image not only captures that relationship but honors the father’s role—a figure who, though sometimes overlooked in wedding storytelling, deserves a moment that’s truly his own.

A father’s love, captured forever.
During this first look at Parkland Country Club, this emotional moment between a bride and her dad shows why being a South Florida wedding photographer means more than taking pictures—it’s about preserving family connections that last a lifetime.
The Difference Between Photojournalism and Complete Coverage
You’ve probably heard the term photojournalistic wedding photographer. It’s a popular style — capturing the day as it unfolds, with minimal posing. I love incorporating photojournalism into my weddings, but I also know its limitations.
Many couples who hire strictly photojournalistic photographers end up disappointed when they realize they have no formal family portraits or flattering couple shots. Beautiful storytelling includes both — candid emotion and timeless portraits.
My approach combines the best of both worlds:
- Unscripted moments full of emotion and authenticity
- Expertly posed portraits that flatter, tell your story, and make everyone look amazing
That balance is what separates a true professional from someone who just “takes pictures.”
BELOW: As a South Florida wedding photographer, I always encourage my couples to schedule an engagement session before their big day. These sessions are much more than just a set of pretty pictures — they’re an essential part of building comfort and chemistry between the couple and their photographer. An engagement shoot helps the couple understand how I work, how I direct and pose, and what kind of energy I bring to the session. On the wedding day, that familiarity can make all the difference, resulting in relaxed, authentic, and emotional images.
This beautiful engagement session took place at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami, one of the most stunning photo locations in South Florida. The elegant stone architecture, lush gardens, and waterfront views create a timeless backdrop for romantic portraits. Every turn of Vizcaya offers new photo opportunities — from grand staircases and ivy-covered arches to scenic views overlooking Biscayne Bay.
Engagement photography also gives couples the chance to see how their personalities translate on camera. It answers key questions: Does the photographer make us feel comfortable? Do they guide us through poses naturally? Do we love the way our images look? These are all important things to know before the wedding.
For this particular shoot, the couple’s natural chemistry and playful energy made every photo come alive. Their choice of vibrant outfits popped beautifully against the stone textures and greenery of Vizcaya. Whether standing on the staircase, embracing by the ocean, or framed beneath a classic archway, their love and joy are undeniable.
If you’re planning a wedding in South Florida, an engagement session like this one is the perfect way to start your journey — and a great opportunity to get to know your South Florida wedding photographer.

Romantic engagement portraits at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami — photographed by South Florida wedding photographer Jeff Kolodny.
Why Engagement Sessions Matter
One of the best ways to know if a photographer is right for you is to schedule an engagement session. Even a short, 30-minute shoot can reveal everything — how comfortable you feel in front of the camera, how easily your photographer gives direction, and how natural the final images look.
I always encourage couples planning a South Florida wedding to do an engagement shoot with me before their big day. It’s not just about the photos (though you’ll get beautiful ones) — it’s about building trust. By the time your wedding arrives, you’ll already know how I work, and you’ll feel completely relaxed in front of the lens.
What You Can Expect from Me
Every wedding I photograph — whether it’s a small elopement on the beach or a luxury ballroom celebration in Palm Beach, Miami, or Fort Lauderdale — receives my full attention and expertise.
You can expect:
- Comprehensive coverage: From the smallest detail shots to the biggest moments of joy.
- Unique imagery: No cookie-cutter poses. Every wedding is different, and I treat it that way.
- Attention to detail: Perfect lighting, composition, and timing — honed from decades behind the camera.
- A calm, professional presence: Weddings can be chaotic. My job is to stay composed so you can relax and enjoy your day.
- Art you’ll cherish forever: Every image is edited to perfection with the goal of looking timeless, not trendy.
BELOW: As a South Florida wedding photographer, I take great pride in having my work recognized and published by some of the most respected names in the wedding industry. My photography has been featured in luxury magazines and popular online platforms such as The Knot, Style Me Pretty, Bridal Guide, Florida Bride, Elegant Wedding, Beach Bride, Modern Jewish Wedding, Southern Bride, Mazel Moments, and many others.
These features are more than just professional milestones — they’re a reflection of years of dedication, creativity, and passion for wedding storytelling. Each image that appears in these publications represents a moment filled with genuine emotion, elegant detail, and the artistry that defines my approach as a South Florida wedding photographer.
From elegant Palm Beach celebrations and beachfront Miami weddings to romantic destination ceremonies throughout Florida, my goal is always to create timeless, emotional images that couples can treasure forever. Editors consistently choose my photos because they capture the true spirit of love — joyful, spontaneous, and beautifully real.
Being recognized by so many leading wedding blogs and magazines reaffirms my commitment to providing couples with exceptional photography and service. Whether it’s a luxury ballroom event or a laid-back seaside ceremony, I bring the same passion and creative eye that has made my work stand out in South Florida and beyond.

Over the years, my wedding photography has been featured by many of the most respected names in the industry — including Style Me Pretty, The Knot, Bridal Guide, Florida Bride, Elegant Wedding, and Modern Jewish Wedding. Each feature highlights my dedication to capturing authentic love stories with artistry, emotion, and timeless beauty.
The South Florida Advantage
Being based in South Florida gives me access to some of the most breathtaking wedding locations in the world — from luxury hotel ballrooms and oceanfront resorts to hidden gardens and private estates. I’ve photographed weddings across:
- Miami
- Palm Beach
- Fort Lauderdale
- Boca Raton
- The Florida Keys
- Delray Beach
- Coral Gables
Each location has its own light, architecture, and atmosphere — and knowing how to photograph each one beautifully is an art form in itself. Whether your ceremony is at The Breakers, Vizcaya, The Four Seasons, or barefoot on the sand, I know how to capture it in its best light.
CORAL GABLES WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY – As a Miami South Florida Wedding Photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing countless love stories across this beautiful region, but few venues capture the essence of elegance quite like the Coral Gables Golf & Country Club. Nestled in the heart of Coral Gables, this historic Miami landmark blends classic architecture, lush greenery, and warm tropical light — a perfect combination for timeless wedding photography. I’ve photographed many weddings at this incredible Miami venue, and each one feels unique. The ballroom, with its high ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and grand floral displays, provides a luxurious setting that photographs beautifully. The adjoining rooms offer softer, more intimate backdrops filled with natural light and refined details — ideal for bridal portraits and emotional first looks. The images in this collage highlight three distinct moments from different weddings at the Coral Gables Golf & Country Club. From romantic couple portraits surrounded by elegant floral décor, to the stunning reception setup drenched in warm ambient light, each image reflects why this venue remains one of my Miami favorites. If you’re planning your wedding in the Miami area and looking for a location that combines classic romance with South Florida style, the Coral Gables Golf & Country Club should be at the top of your list. As a Miami South Florida Wedding Photographer, I love helping couples bring their vision to life in this unforgettable setting

Elegant ballrooms, romantic portraits, and timeless Miami wedding inspiration
MIAMI WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY – Miami is filled with a wide range of absolutely breathtaking wedding locations, and over the years as a Miami wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of photographing couples at some of the city’s most iconic venues — from the Fontainebleau, The Palms, and The Eden Roc, to the Ritz-Carlton South Beach and beyond. However, one of my all-time favorite locations is where this photo was taken: the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.
If you’ve never visited Vizcaya, it’s a hidden gem that feels like stepping into another world. The combination of European-inspired architecture, stone staircases, elaborate fountains, and lush gardens makes it one of the most photogenic wedding venues in all of South Florida. Every corner offers a different visual story — whether it’s a romantic waterfront view, an ivy-covered wall, or a sun-kissed courtyard perfect for first-look photos.
As a South Florida wedding photographer, I’ve also used Vizcaya for engagement sessions, maternity portraits, and lifestyle shoots. There’s truly no limit to the creativity this venue inspires. If you plan to visit, allow plenty of time to explore; the grounds are vast and filled with breathtaking scenery, from shaded walkways to tranquil water views. For couples seeking timeless elegance and a touch of Miami magic, Vizcaya remains one of the most beautiful locations to say “I do.”

A joyful newlywed moment captured at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens — one of Miami’s most breathtaking wedding venues.
PALM BEACH WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY – As a South Florida wedding photographer, I’ve had the honor of photographing countless love stories in some of Palm Beach’s most exclusive and breathtaking venues. Each location offers its own unique charm, and this collage highlights a few of my favorite Palm Beach wedding photography moments from venues like The Breakers, Four Seasons Palm Beach, and EAU Palm Beach.
On the left, the bride gazes upward from the grand staircase of the EAU Palm Beach — a venue known for its coastal elegance and exquisite architectural design. At the top center, the newlyweds share their first dance at The Breakers. To create this romantic image, I photographed the couple through a softly blurred centerpiece, using the glow of the candles to frame their connection. In the lower center, a joyful couple shares a quiet moment in the lush gardens of the Four Seasons Palm Beach, a venue that prides itself on its intimate ambiance and fresh, garden-to-table cuisine. The image on the right shows a bride looking out at the Atlantic from her ocean-view suite at The Breakers, moments before her ceremony.
Palm Beach is synonymous with sophistication and timeless beauty. From the grandeur of its oceanfront resorts to the charming streets of Worth Avenue, the area offers endless possibilities for engagement sessions, marriage proposals, and family portraits. My Palm Beach wedding photography captures not only the luxury of these venues but also the genuine emotion and unforgettable moments that define each couple’s story.
If you’re planning your dream wedding in Palm Beach, I would love to help you capture it beautifully. Call or text me at 954-560-1533 to discuss your vision.

A Palm Beach wedding collage captured by South Florida wedding photographer Jeff Kolodny — featuring iconic venues including The Breakers, Four Seasons Palm Beach, and Eau Palm Beach.
FORT LAUDERDALE WEDDINGS – As a South Florida wedding photographer, I’m constantly inspired by the natural beauty that surrounds our coastal venues. Few places capture that magic quite like The Hillsboro Club on Hillsboro Beach in Fort Lauderdale. Tucked quietly along the shoreline, this exclusive club offers sweeping ocean views, tropical palms, and the iconic Hillsboro Lighthouse — a beacon that has witnessed countless love stories unfold.
On this particular day, the soft sound of the waves and the glow of late-afternoon light set the perfect scene. The bride and groom shared a quiet moment beneath a palm tree, their joy reflected in the gentle rhythm of the sea. As I photographed them, I couldn’t help but feel how perfectly the setting mirrored their connection — natural, vibrant, and full of life.
The Hillsboro Club is one of those rare venues where every angle feels cinematic. Whether framed by the ocean, the lush greenery, or the lighthouse itself, it’s a dream location for couples seeking both elegance and authenticity. For anyone planning a Fort Lauderdale wedding, this oceanfront gem captures everything that makes a South Florida wedding unforgettable — romance, beauty, and the endless allure of the sea.

A timeless Fort Lauderdale wedding moment — ocean breeze, palm trees, and love captured at The Hillsboro Club by South Florida wedding photographer Jeff Kolodny.
MORE FROM FORT LAUDERDALE – As a South Florida wedding photographer, I’ve been fortunate to capture love stories in some of the most beautiful and diverse venues imaginable. Few areas offer the range of scenery and sophistication found in Fort Lauderdale weddings — from luxurious beachfront hotels to historic landmarks filled with charm and character.
The image on the left was taken at the iconic Riverside Hotel on Las Olas Boulevard, one of Fort Lauderdale’s most popular wedding destinations. This venue combines classic elegance with a touch of old Florida charm. The bride’s stunning gown cascades down the staircase beneath the soft glow of a chandelier, perfectly reflecting the timeless style that couples love about this historic hotel. For out-of-town guests, staying at the Riverside offers an unforgettable experience — they can enjoy the art galleries, fine dining, and boutique shopping along Las Olas Boulevard, as well as the nearby beaches. A vintage-style tram even runs up and down Las Olas, connecting the best of downtown Fort Lauderdale with the oceanfront.
The center photo brings us to another Fort Lauderdale favorite — The Hillsboro Club, with its stunning view of the famous Hillsboro Lighthouse. I originally photographed this scene in color, then transformed it using a split-tone infrared process, giving it a silvery, dreamlike texture. This artistic edit gives the image a nostalgic, cinematic quality that stands out among traditional wedding portraits. The Hillsboro area is especially popular for couples who want a balance of coastal beauty and exclusivity — and when the sun sets behind the lighthouse, it creates one of the most romantic backdrops in all of South Florida.
On the right, we return to the ocean at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort, one of my favorite wedding venues and a place where I’m proud to be a preferred photographer. This venue offers everything couples could want — oceanfront ceremonies, tropical gardens, and ballrooms that combine modern luxury with seaside charm. The image shows a heartfelt moment as the groom kisses his bride beneath her veil, framed by the soft ocean breeze. It’s one of those candid, emotional shots that I’m known for — the kind of moment you can’t stage, but that tells a story all on its own.
If you’re planning to get married in South Florida, Fort Lauderdale should be at the top of your list. From the sophisticated Riverside Hotel to the timeless Hillsboro Lighthouse and the breathtaking Marriott Harbor Beach, there’s no shortage of romantic venues and stunning photo opportunities. Each location offers its own distinct atmosphere, but all share one thing in common — they provide the perfect setting for unforgettable wedding memories.
As your South Florida wedding photographer, my goal is to capture those moments — the laughter, the tears, and the quiet in-between glances — with artistry, emotion, and precision. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of Las Olas, the coastal charm of Hillsboro, or the luxury of Harbor Beach, your Fort Lauderdale wedding deserves to be remembered beautifully.

From Las Olas Boulevard to the Harbor Beach Marriott, these Fort Lauderdale weddings capture the beauty, romance, and emotion that define South Florida celebrations.
WEDDINGS IN BOCA RATON – This image captures one of those once-in-a-lifetime wedding moments — a bride walking arm in arm with her parents, all three of them laughing uncontrollably as they make their way down the aisle. Taken at Woodfield Country Club in Boca Raton, this scene perfectly reflects what I love most about being a South Florida wedding photographer — authentic emotion, natural connection, and those unscripted moments that tell the real story of the day.
Woodfield Country Club is one of my favorite Boca Raton wedding venues, not just because of its beauty, but because of the energy and joy couples bring to it. The club has recently undergone a stunning modernization, featuring sleek white interiors, sweeping staircases, and luxurious marble floors. Every detail is designed with elegance in mind, making it an incredible backdrop for both indoor and outdoor photography.
The grounds are equally impressive. From the manicured gardens and colorful floral landscapes to the serene stream and expansive golf course, every angle offers something picturesque. What truly sets Woodfield apart is the way the sun sets directly over the golf course — creating a spectacular golden glow during evening ceremonies. For photographers, that soft South Florida light just before sunset is absolute magic.
Of course, Boca Raton offers many other incredible wedding venues, each with its own unique charm. From the grandeur of The Boca Raton Hotel to the refined beauty of Stonebridge Country Club and The Club at Boca Pointe, couples have endless options when planning their dream South Florida wedding. Still, there’s something intimate and special about Woodfield Country Club — a perfect blend of sophistication, warmth, and joy.
As a wedding photographer, my goal is always to capture those fleeting moments that remind couples how much love and laughter surrounded them on their big day. This photograph is a perfect example — a genuine moment of happiness that will forever remind this bride and her family how beautiful and fun their wedding day truly was.

A bride shares an unforgettable laugh with her parents as they walk down the aisle at Woodfield Country Club in Boca Raton — captured by South Florida wedding photographer Jeff Kolodny.
I’ve had the pleasure of photographing countless beautiful weddings throughout Boca Raton, a city known for its luxury venues and stunning scenery. The three photos in this collage represent some of my favorite locations and moments from recent Boca Raton weddings.
The image on the left was taken at The Polo Club of Boca Raton, a venue that blends classic sophistication with tropical elegance. The front entrance features a lovely bamboo walkway that creates a natural frame for romantic portraits. It’s one of my favorite spots to photograph couples after the ceremony — peaceful, private, and full of golden light.
The center image was photographed at Woodfield Country Club, a location surrounded by lush greenery and colorful gardens. I purposely incorporated soft, out-of-focus flowers in the foreground to add depth and highlight the couple’s emotional connection. Woodfield’s landscaped paths and light tones make every wedding feel vibrant and elegant.
The final photo, taken at Stonebridge Country Club, captures one of my favorite parts of any wedding day — the first look. The emotion on the groom’s face when he turns to see his bride for the first time is priceless. Moments like these are why I love what I do as a South Florida wedding photographer — capturing genuine emotion, beauty, and love across Boca Raton’s most iconic venues.

Romantic wedding moments captured across Boca Raton’s most exclusive venues — from The Polo Club’s bamboo walkway to Woodfield’s lush gardens and Stonebridge’s emotional first look.
DELRAY BEACH WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY – As a South Florida wedding photographer, I love capturing moments that tell the story behind the wedding day — the laughter, the friendships, and the excitement leading up to the ceremony. This photo, taken outside the Opal Grand Resort in Delray Beach, perfectly sums up the fun energy of a wedding morning on Florida’s coast.
The Opal Grand is one of my favorite wedding venues in Delray Beach. It’s located right across the street from the beach, which makes it an ideal setting for couples who want the best of both worlds — a beautiful luxury hotel with a stunning ballroom and the beach just steps away. You can literally walk out the front door, cross Ocean Boulevard, and you’re standing on the sand. For couples planning a South Florida wedding, this combination of ocean views and elegant interiors is hard to beat.
On this particular morning, the bridesmaids were full of laughter and anticipation as they got ready for the big day. Dressed in matching light blue shirts and carrying their beach bags, they couldn’t resist taking a playful stroll across the street — a fun, spontaneous “bridal squad” moment that reminded me of a modern twist on the Beatles’ Abbey Road. It’s these candid, in-between moments that really show the joy of the day.
For me, capturing scenes like this is what makes wedding photography in South Florida so rewarding. Between the palm-lined streets, ocean breezes, and warm light, every image tells a story that’s both elegant and full of life. The Opal Grand in Delray Beach continues to be one of those venues where magic just happens — both inside and outside the ballroom.

Bridesmaids cross Atlantic Ave in Delray Beach, heading from the Opal Grand toward the beach for a fun pre-wedding photo moment.

Bride and Groom Walking through the Flowers to the Beach
As a South Florida wedding photographer, one of my favorite places to create images is right across the street from the Opal Grand in Delray Beach. This quiet path leading to the sand may not look like much at first glance, but when you see it through a photographer’s eye, it transforms into a scene full of story, light, and romance. The wildflowers and greenery that line the trail change with the seasons, giving every photograph its own unique palette and character.
For this Opal Grand wedding, I wanted to capture something beyond the standard “couple standing in the sand with the ocean behind them.” While those images are timeless, I’m always searching for a way to tell a story — to show emotion, movement, and a sense of place. The bride’s gown was absolutely stunning, with delicate lace details and a long flowing veil that caught the wind perfectly. I knew this location would give me the chance to show both the elegance of her dress and the natural beauty of South Florida’s coastline.
We did this walking shot several times to get the rhythm, movement, and expression just right. Timing the veil as it lifted in the breeze was key. What made this shot even more interesting was the slight dune and embankment that allowed me to shoot from above. That higher perspective revealed the winding path and helped the viewer’s eye travel naturally — first to the couple, then down the trail, and finally toward the ocean in the distance.
Even though the ocean in the background isn’t crystal-sharp, it still gives a soft sense of direction and atmosphere — you know they’re heading toward the water, hand in hand, ready for the next chapter of their life together.
That’s what I love most about being a South Florida wedding photographer — finding beauty in the details, capturing emotion in motion, and telling the story behind every couple’s journey. The Opal Grand and its surrounding beach paths continue to be one of my favorite locations to create these timeless, heartfelt wedding images
FLORIDA KEYS WEDDINGS – As a South Florida Wedding Photographer, one of my favorite places to capture weddings is the Florida Keys. There’s something truly special about photographing couples surrounded by turquoise water, swaying palms, and that warm, laid-back island energy. The Keys offer a perfect balance of natural beauty and easygoing charm, making them an ideal wedding destination for couples traveling from all over the country.
Not every couple realizes how many incredible venues line the Overseas Highway, from boutique hotels and cozy beachfront inns to luxury resorts. Some venues are surprisingly affordable, while others—like the world-famous Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo—are among the most exclusive in Florida. I often photograph weddings at Ocean Reef Club, a property so private it even has its own airport! But regardless of budget or scale, each venue in the Keys offers something that can’t be replicated anywhere else: a stunning connection to the ocean and sky.
The image you see here was taken at sunset, during what photographers call the golden hour—that magical window just before and after the sun dips below the horizon. The light becomes soft, warm, and flattering, wrapping everything in a romantic glow. As a photographer, this is one of my favorite times of day because it creates natural depth and emotion in every frame. The gentle reflection off the water and the soft shadows from the trees create a dreamlike quality that’s impossible to fake.
Every time I shoot a Florida Keys wedding, I’m reminded of how much variety this destination offers. One moment, you’re capturing a couple under a banyan tree; the next, you’re photographing them barefoot in the sand with sailboats drifting in the distance. Whether it’s an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, the Keys deliver incredible backdrops at every turn.
If you’re planning your own destination wedding, the Florida Keys should be high on your list. From Marathon to Key West, you’ll find countless options for oceanfront ceremonies, unforgettable sunsets, and plenty of opportunities for breathtaking wedding photography. And when you’re ready to capture your love story with artistry and heart, I’d love to be your South Florida Wedding Photographer.

A newlywed kiss beneath a sunlit tree along the Overseas Highway. This Florida Keys wedding portrait captures the peaceful charm and glowing light of golden hour—every South Florida Wedding Photographer’s dream moment.
CHECK OUT THIS INFRARED WEDDING PICTURE TAKEN IN THE FLORIDA KEYS.

A kiss beneath the palm trees in the Florida Keys — transformed into a dreamy, ethereal scene through Jeff Kolodny’s infrared wedding photography.
As a South Florida Wedding Photographer, one of my favorite places to capture weddings is the Florida Keys. There’s something truly special about photographing couples surrounded by turquoise water, swaying palms, and that warm, laid-back island energy. The Keys offer a perfect balance of natural beauty and easygoing charm, making them an ideal wedding destination for couples traveling from all over the country.
Not every couple realizes how many incredible venues line the Overseas Highway, from boutique hotels and cozy beachfront inns to luxury resorts. Some venues are surprisingly affordable, while others—like the world-famous Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo—are among the most exclusive in Florida. I often photograph weddings at Ocean Reef Club, a property so private it even has its own airport! But regardless of budget or scale, each venue in the Keys offers something that can’t be replicated anywhere else: a stunning connection to the ocean and sky.
The image you see here was taken at sunset, during what photographers call the golden hour—that magical window just before and after the sun dips below the horizon. The light becomes soft, warm, and flattering, wrapping everything in a romantic glow. As a photographer, this is one of my favorite times of day because it creates natural depth and emotion in every frame. The gentle reflection off the water and the soft shadows from the trees create a dreamlike quality that’s impossible to fake.
Every time I shoot a Florida Keys wedding, I’m reminded of how much variety this destination offers. One moment, you’re capturing a couple under a banyan tree; the next, you’re photographing them barefoot in the sand with sailboats drifting in the distance. Whether it’s an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, the Keys deliver incredible backdrops at every turn.
If you’re planning your own destination wedding, the Florida Keys should be high on your list. From Marathon to Key West, you’ll find countless options for oceanfront ceremonies, unforgettable sunsets, and plenty of opportunities for breathtaking wedding photography. And when you’re ready to capture your love story with artistry and heart, I’d love to be your South Florida Wedding Photographer.
After photographing over 2,000 weddings, I’ve learned that every event teaches you something new. Experience gives me the ability to predict moments before they happen — the look on a father’s face when he sees his daughter in her gown, the quiet smile between newlyweds when no one’s looking, the laughter during toasts.
These aren’t moments you can “stage.” You have to be ready — and you have to care deeply about catching them.
That’s what I mean when I say: I never miss a moment.
The Value of True Professionalism
In today’s digital age, anyone can post a portfolio online. But behind the camera, professionalism is what truly matters.
Being a professional South Florida wedding photographer means:
- Arriving early and prepared for any situation
- Knowing how to manage time and lighting throughout the day
- Working seamlessly with planners, videographers, and venues
- Delivering your photos on time and with consistent quality
- Having backup gear, backup memory, and even backup plans
Your wedding day is too important to leave to chance.
My Philosophy: Every Picture Has to Count
Even though digital photography allows for unlimited shots, I still approach each wedding as if I were shooting on film. Every frame matters. Every click of the shutter should capture something meaningful — whether it’s a perfectly composed portrait or a fleeting moment of emotion.
That’s the Kodachrome discipline I learned as a teenager — and it’s what guides me today.
Why Couples Choose Me as Their South Florida Wedding Photographer
My clients often tell me they chose me because of how personal my photography feels. My goal is to make sure your images reflect you — your personality, your love story, your emotions.
I’m not just documenting your wedding day; I’m creating a collection of memories that will outlast every trend, every technology, and every social media platform.
Whether you’re planning an elegant ballroom wedding in Palm Beach, a tropical beachfront celebration in Miami, or a chic destination event in the Keys, I bring the same passion, creativity, and attention to detail to every single image.
Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together
If you’re searching for a South Florida wedding photographer who combines old-school craftsmanship with modern artistry — someone who understands both the emotional and technical sides of photography — I would love to hear your story.
Your wedding photographs should feel timeless, emotional, and alive. They should bring you right back to that moment every time you look at them.
That’s my promise — and that’s what sets me apart.
📸 Jeff Kolodny Photography
Serving Miami, Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and beyond
View comments
+ Leave a comment