There’s something timeless and sacred about a Catholic wedding, especially when it takes place in the heart of Boston. Recently, I had the honor of photographing a beautiful celebration at St. Mary of the Assumption Parish (Brookline, MA) where faith, family, and tradition came together in a deeply meaningful way.
As a Catholic wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing these kinds of days—the quiet reverence of the Mass, the joyful smiles of family members, and the intentional, faith-filled moments that deserve to be remembered forever. This wedding was no exception, and I’m thrilled to share highlights from this truly unforgettable day.
Meet The Couple
Paul and Angela are the kind of couple you can’t help but admire. Grounded in their Catholic faith, they knew they wanted their wedding to reflect the sacred beauty of the sacrament of marriage.
From the very beginning, they envisioned a wedding day that was more than just a celebration—it was a spiritual milestone. Their desire for something timeless and meaningful is one of the reasons I chose to include film photography in their coverage, ensuring that their photos felt as heartfelt and classic as their vows.
A Sacred Ceremony at St. Mary of the Assumption Parish, Boston
The ceremony took place at St. Mary of the Assumption Parish, a stunning example of Boston’s rich Catholic heritage. From the soaring ceilings and detailed stained-glass windows to the soft lighting throughout, every part of the church created an atmosphere of sacred reverence.
As a photographer familiar with the rhythm of the Catholic Mass, I was able to respectfully capture key liturgical moments—like the Liturgy of the Word, the Nuptial Blessing, and the couple’s Marian devotion—with both digital and film photography. Film truly shines in these sacred spaces, preserving the warmth, depth, and stillness of the moment.
Capturing the Day: Digital & Film Highlights
Getting Ready
The couple prepared in nearby rooms, the rectory and church basement which were filled with light and family energy. Details like their rings were captured on medium format film, preserving the emotion in a way that feels as soft and tangible as the memories themselves.
The Ceremony
There’s nothing like witnessing a couple stand before God and their loved ones to say, “I do.” The beauty of the Mass was enhanced by the dark rich colors of this particular church architecture. The low lighting and softness of film really helped capture the richness.
Portraits At The Venue
After the ceremony, we took portraits at their venue, Sparhawk Academy (Millis, MA). It was a tented reception surrounded by a mossy wooden fence. The scenery was the perfect backdrop, and film added a nostalgic softness that made each photo feel truly timeless. Watching them run through the field felt like a moment out of Pride and Prejudice.
Outdoor Reception
The celebration continued outdoors at Sparhawk Academy (Millis, MA), where loved ones gathered and shared drinks and laughter. As the sun dipped lower, I captured golden-hour portraits on film—moments full of warmth, connection, and joy. We didn’t have much in terms of a sunset but the ambient lighting still provided a lot.
Why Film Photography Elevates Catholic Weddings
Film slows things down. It invites intentionality and reverence—two things that align beautifully with the structure and meaning of a Catholic wedding.
When I shoot film, I’m not just taking pictures—I’m preserving moments in a way that honors their emotional and spiritual weight. The texture, tones, and natural grain lend themselves beautifully to both the quiet of the church and the energy of the reception.
Planning a Catholic Wedding in Boston? Here Are a Few Tips:
- Book your church early. Popular parishes like St. Mary of the Assumption, St. Cecilia, and St. Leonard’s often have limited weddings availability.
- Communicate with your priest. Ask about any photography restrictions during the Mass, and share your photographer’s respectful approach. Sometimes the church and priest have their own individual restrictions.
- Leave travel time. Boston traffic can be tricky—plan for portrait locations and reception travel with buffer time. Or consider taking your photos at your venue like Angela and Paul did!
- Consider hybrid coverage. If you love timeless imagery, ask your photographer (hi 👋) about adding film photography to your package.
- Let your wedding reflect your faith. Incorporate traditions like a Marian devotion, or blessing before dinner—it all tells your story.
Final Gallery: Real Wedding Moments from St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church
Looking for a Boston Catholic Wedding Photographer?
I’d be honored to document your day with the same reverence and joy I brought to this one. Whether you’re planning a full Mass at a historic church or blending tradition with a modern celebration, I’m here to tell your story with intentional, faith-filled imagery—on both digital and film.
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