Long Island wedding photographer Michael Cassara

GET TO KNOW MIKE

Wedding & LIFESTYLE Photographer
Minimalist lighthouse illustration in soft gray tones on white background.

I’m Michael Cassara, a Long Island, NY wedding and portrait photographer who truly loves being behind the camera. With over 15 years of experience photographing Long Island weddings, my approach is rooted in capturing real moments, genuine emotion, and the candid interactions that make your day unforgettable.


My love for photography started early. My mom was always the one on the sidelines with a camera, documenting everything she could. Watching her capture those moments is what first sparked my appreciation for photography and the power of preserving memories.


I originally studied documentary filmmaking, which is where my photojournalistic style was born. While I loved storytelling through film, I quickly realized the still image was where I felt most at home. That background continues to influence my work today, allowing me to document weddings in a natural, candid way that feels authentic and timeless.


When I’m not photographing weddings, you can find me spending time with my family and our pup, hanging out on the South Shore of Long Island, or unwinding with a good video game.

MY APPROACH

CANDID. UNFORCED. AUTHENTIC.
Photographer at Long Island, New York studio

My approach to wedding photography is centered on authenticity. I focus on documenting the real moments, genuine connections, and natural interactions that make every wedding day unique. Rather than directing every second, I take a documentary-style approach that allows the day to unfold naturally while I quietly capture the emotions, laughter, and meaningful moments as they happen.


For me, wedding photography is about more than just beautiful images—it’s about preserving the feeling of the day. The small glances, the big celebrations, and the moments you didn’t even realize were happening all become part of your story. My goal is to create timeless, candid photographs that reflect who you are and allow you to relive your wedding day for years to come.

Photographer reviewing shots on camera in warmly lit indoor studio.

QUICK FACTS

THE RANDOM STUFF
  • I started photography in 2006, taking photos of friends and family.


  • I have 14 cameras… though only about 5 of them actually work.


  • I’ve been with my wife for 19 years—that’s almost half my life!


  • I think dad jokes are hilarious.


  • The Office, Parks & Recreation, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and New Girl are my favorite shows to edit photos to.


  • I’d rather stay in and watch Netflix than go out to a bar—my wife and I usually fall asleep by 10pm.


  • I love video games and am a gigantic nerd—I’ve actually competed in gaming tournaments all over the country.


  • When I start something, I have to finish it—no matter what.


  • I love fighter jets and vintage WWII planes. Favorite movie of all time… Top Gun.


  • I’m a huge dog person. If you have a dog in your wedding party, you’re automatically awesome.


  • I love playing golf—it’s definitely my old-man sport.


  • I host a podcast about the wedding industry called The Vendor Table, available wherever you get your podcasts.
Two men and a woman smiling together at a lively wedding reception venue at night.
Black and white photo of wedding party group smiling by waterfront dock.
Bride in white dress posing for selfie with guests at wedding reception.

 

AWARDS & HONORS

Michael Cassara Photography has been named Best Long Island Wedding Photographer by Long Island Connection and has won numerous awards from WeddingWire, WeddingRule, LooksLikeFilm, and Bethpage Best of Long Island.

 

2026 - FourLeaf Best of Long Island - Nominee - Best Wedding Photographer

2025 - WeddingWire Couples Choice Award Winner

2025 Long Island Connection - Best Wedding Photographer

2024 - Bethpage Best of Long Island - Nominee - Best Wedding Photographer

2024 - WeddingWire Couples Choice Award Winner

2023 - Long Island Connection - Best Wedding Photographer

2023 - WeddingWire Couples Choice Award Winner

2023 - Bethpage Best of Long Island - Nominee - Best Wedding Photographer

2022 - WeddingRule.com - Top 10 Wedding Photographers on Long Island

2022 - WeddingWire Couples Choice Award Winner

2021 - WeddingWire Couples Choice Award Winner

2021 - Bethpage Best of Long Island - Nominee - Best Wedding Photographer

2020 - LooksLikeFilm - Best Engagement Photos of the Year

2020 - WeddingWire Couples Choice Award Winner

2020 - LooksLikeFilm - Best Engagement Photos of the Year

2020 - WeddingWire Couples Choice Award Winner

2020 - Bethpage Best of Long Island - Nominee - Best Wedding Photographer

2019 - WeddingWire Couples Choice Award Winner

2019 - Bethpage Best of Long Island - Nominee - Best Wedding Photographer

2018 - WeddingWire Couples Choice Award Winner

2018 - Bethpage Best of Long Island - Nominee - Best Wedding Photographer

2017 - WeddingWire Couples Choice Award Winner

2017 - Bethpage Best of Long Island - Nominee - Best Wedding Photographer

2016 - Bethpage Best of Long Island - Winner - Best Wedding Photographer

Elegant white rose bridal bouquet with ribbon resting on green grass.

 

Let’s work together

 

Delicate white botanical illustration of a wildflower plant with roots on white background.
Long Island wedding photography of bride with bouquet
Follow me on Instagram


@MICHAELCASSARAPHOTO