Welcome

Hempel bio '11

Hi, thanks for visiting my blog! My name is Katje Hempel. I am a Brooklyn based wedding and portrait photographer specializing in same-sex weddings, engagements, elopements and portraits. I love my job for one simple reason.  It allows me to participate in, as well as document, some of peoples’ happiest moments.

I am a photographer, but more so, I am a people person.  My formal education lies in Psychology, however I grew up with a dark room in my house, developing photos.  Click here to view a full bio.

I aspire to capture tender moments, and provide you with images that reflect the good in life.  This blog will give you a snapshot into my life; my values, my  point of view, and most importantly to you, the way I work. Enjoy!

Richard and Mark Marry in Central Park

I was so excited to shoot the wedding celebration of Richard and Mark yesterday! The couple flew over from Perth, Australia in order to make the commitment.  14 Stories made all of the arrangements, and the couple was able to have the perfect unique experience that suited just them. A few photos from the day:

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They exchanged vows in front of the Bethesda Fountain, and then made a wish on a penny, and threw it into the fountain.

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Instead of exchanging engagement rings, the couple exchanged shares in Tiffany’s, complete with a plaque that is now hanging in their home in Perth. 14 Stories arranged for Mark and Richard to have a champagne toast and cake cutting in a private salon within the Tiffany’s store. Definitely a new experience in my book!
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Congratulations Mark and Richard, very much looking forward to sharing all of the photos with you!

Kelly CamarataMay 16, 2012 - 1:54 pm

Such fabulous photos!!
Richard and Mark, you look wonderful, and we are so glad the day went sooo well for you both.
Lots of love from us here in Oz!!! xoxox

RosieMay 16, 2012 - 3:51 pm

Looks AMAZING!!! A perfect day and great photos!!! Definitely worth the wait!

annieMay 16, 2012 - 11:12 pm

thanks so much for sharing your joy. On this chilly Thursday morning in Perth it’s a great start to the day for me -
You both look fabulously happy
love
annie

Heather RickettsMay 17, 2012 - 1:02 am

Mark and Rich…my warmest congratulations to you. I am so happy for you. What a fabulous place to marry and how fitting for you both.
Love always,
Heather
xx

GarrickMay 17, 2012 - 1:32 am

Congratulations guys!! Great photos!! Enjoy your honeymoon!!

Kim TilleyMay 17, 2012 - 1:56 am

Thank you for the link guys. What beautiful photos and commentary. A share in Tiffany’s??? wow!!!!

You both look like you had an absolute ball…. CONGRATULATIONS.

See you when you get back to Perth – Kim xxxxx

LeiselMay 17, 2012 - 2:11 am

Thank you so much for sharing these gorgeous photos. You both look so happy and so in love.

Look forward to hearing all the stories. Am sure there will be plenty.

Love
Leisel
xx

RichardMay 18, 2012 - 2:07 am

Katje, these photos are amazing and we cannot wait to see the rest. Thank you very much for capturing our day and making us feel special. Richard

RevAnnieNYCMay 18, 2012 - 7:06 am

Gorgeous photos Katje & cheers to Andrew/14 Stories! xo, @RevAnnieNYC

Jason and Jerry

I met up with Jason and Jerry this past weekend to take a few photos before they tie the knot.  They have two adorable Labradors, Jack and Diane, who joined us for the shoot in Central Park, and at the pier just across from their house.  A few photos from our morning:

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Looking forward to the big day guys!

MaraMay 8, 2012 - 3:07 pm

What a beautiful cosmopolitan couple! Fantastic shots, Katje. These pictures make me want to crash their wedding.

Kate and Joe, Happy 3rd Anniversary!

Three years ago today, I shot the wedding of Kate and Joe on the Brooklyn Bridge. Every year, they return on their anniversary, and I am lucky enough to be able to watch them grow. My hope is that all couples can continue on such a path of love with each other — it was if they were just engaged!

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Happy, happy anniversary guys! Looking forward to seeing you again next year! Much love to both of you.