We recently connected with Matt Sowa and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Matt with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
That’s such a cool and thoughtful question.
As a wedding photographer, I think it come from a deep respect for storytelling and observation. Great photography is about being present, noticing the details others miss, and showing people something familiar in a new way. So the “work ethic” would probably be rooted in curiosity, patience, and a real drive to connect emotionally through visuals.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Matthew Sowa an internationally renowned NYC wedding photographer with 20 years of experience based in Manhattan. With an impressive portfolio covering more than 1000 weddings, Matthew has developed a unique documentary approach that is beautifully complemented by his contemporary portraits created in a dramatic style.
Matthew’s work is infused with enthusiasm and spontaneity, showcasing a fresh and original perspective. His intense compositions, often presented in black and white, ensure that there are no distractions between the content and the viewer, allowing the emotions of each moment to shine through.
As a friend-ambassador of DreambooksPro and a member of several prestigious organizations including the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), National Press Photographers Association (NPPA), International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers (ISPWP), and many more, Matthew is recognized as one of NYC’s best wedding photographers. His passion for capturing joy and love is evident in every wedding he photographs—whether it’s an intimate gathering or a grand celebration.
Over the past 16+ years, Matthew has worked closely with couples throughout New York City and beyond—including Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania—providing personalized service that ensures their special day is commemorated with creativity and professionalism.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Great question—wedding photography is such a unique blend of art, technical skill, and people management. Here are three of the most important qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that set great wedding photographers apart:
1. Mastery of Light & Camera Technique
Why it matters: Weddings are fast-paced and unpredictable. Lighting changes constantly (think: dark chapels, harsh sunlight, twinkling string lights at night).
Skills involved: Knowing your camera inside out, being able to shoot in manual, using off-camera flash, and adapting on the fly are essential.
2. Strong Interpersonal & People Skills
Why it matters: You’re not just a photographer—you’re also a calming presence, a crowd director, and sometimes even an honorary bridesmaid/groomsman.
Skills involved: Communicating, managing group dynamics, helping couples feel relaxed in front of the lens, and keeping cool under pressure.
3. Storytelling & Composition
Why it matters: Wedding photography is all about telling the story of the day—capturing not just moments, but emotion, atmosphere, and connection.
Skills involved: Having an eye for candid moments, understanding visual flow, using composition to enhance narrative, and curating a gallery that feels cohesive and meaningful.
If you knew you only had a decade of life left, how would you spend that decade?
Oof, that’s a deep one. A decade is long enough to build something meaningful but short enough that every choice matters. If I were human and had just ten years left, here’s how I think I’d want to spend it:
Live with Intention – I’d strip life down to what matters: people I love, work I care about, and experiences that make me feel alive. No more putting off the “someday” stuff.
Travel Deep, Not Wide – Not just ticking off countries, but really being in a few special places. Maybe return to spots that changed me, or go live for a year in places that stir my soul.
Create Something That Lasts – A book, a documentary, a project—something that shares whatever wisdom or beauty I’ve picked up. I’d want to leave behind more than just memories.
Reconnect & Forgive – Let go of grudges, say what needs to be said. I imagine I’d want clean relationships, with no “I wish I had said…” moments.
Play More, Worry Less – I’d find joy in the little things. Sunsets, music, dancing badly, laughing hard. No time to stress about trivial stuff.
Get Real About Mortality – Not in a gloomy way, but facing it head-on. Maybe volunteer in hospice, or document the experience. Make peace with the end by being open about it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.matthewsowaphotography.com
- Instagram: matthew_sowa_photography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MatthewSowaPhotography
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-sowa-b7a93915/
- Other: https://vimeo.com/374308426
Image Credits
Matthew Sowa NYC wedding photographer.
www.matthewsowaphotography.com
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
