Secret locations, old-school film, and amazing shots: An interview with NYC photographer Dustin Cantrell

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Keep reading to hear why he loves non-traditional clients (hint: it involves trespassing), and the three most-requested locations in New York. Oh yes, and a little Offbeat Bride discount…

I hear that you have a beef with the typical wedding photography package that only lasts eight hours. Why's that?

I believe the typical eight-hour wedding package misses out on a lot of the best candid moments that don't fit into the standard package. My package includes full wedding day coverage and fully edited images in color and black and white. I also include ten exposures on film with my full day package. I also offer special hourly packages for City Hall or weekday weddings.

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Okay, tell me more about your work with Polaroid film. Some of your Polaroid images are INCREDIBLE!

I'm a big fan of old-school Polaroid film cameras, and enjoy capturing couple photos/portraits especially in black and white. Creating an amazing Polaroid… it's not an easy task since it's very unpredictable. However when I get it right, it's a one of kind image and I really believe it makes couples like it more.

So, what's your favorite thing about photographing Offbeat Brides?

I really enjoy working with brides who want to shoot in unique locations. Being based out of New York City I get lots of requests from couples who want one or all three of the same locations (Central Park, Times Square, and Brooklyn Bridge Park). Having any opportunity to work with offbeat couples who want something different is really what inspires me be more creative and get unique images for every couple. I'm happy to hear from couples who have a unique vision for their photos or give me the freedom to pick the locations.

Interesting — usually photographers get excited about the themes, or the fun details, but locations can be just as exciting. So, what are some of your favorite NYC locations?

The photo above is a great example of the type of location I'm talking about. This spot in Brooklyn has a great view of the Manhattan skyline from a different perspective. Of course, this spot takes an offbeat type of couple, willing to take a little risk… since you have to trespass and squeeze through part of the fence to get out to this spot. 

Since you crave adventurous brides and grooms, do you have any promotions or discounts you'd like to offer?

For this 2013 wedding season, I would like to offer 15% off 2013 weddings booked by March 15th, 2013. Just contact me and mention this post!

Dustin, thank you for giving us a peek into your awesome job! Offbeat Bride readers, we welcome you to trespass all over Dustin's website.

About the Author: Megan Finley Horowitz

@meggyfin @thedashanddine @meggyfin

When Megan's not writing, traveling, and sleeping, she's eating like the fate of the world depends on it. (You're welcome, world!) You can snoop into her personal life over on her website The Dash and Dine!