Business Details
26 Years
experience
Your Trusted Wedding Photographer in Syracuse, NY
Founded in 2000, AlterImage Studio has established itself as Syracuse NY's premier wedding photography studio, combining artistic vision with cutting-edge technology. Our team, led by award-winning photographers Dava and Rick Needle, brings over two decades of experience capturing candid, elegant moments for more than 75 weddings annually. We pioneered the same-day reception slideshow, instantly sharing edited images with guests to create unforgettable experiences. As a family-owned business with five children, we understand the importance of preserving authentic family moments, extending our expertise to commercial photography, portraits, and innovative LED photo booth rentals.Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our 17-year track record of delivering high-resolution digital galleries and heirloom-quality albums, while maintaining a down-to-earth approach that prioritizes client relationships. Through community involvement with organizations like GiGi's Playhouse and Abundant Life Church, we demonstrate our dedication to both artistic excellence and social responsibility.
Services
Wedding Photography
Videography
Photo Booth Rental
Portrait Sessions
Corporate Headshots
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We photograph over 75 weddings annually with a fun, candid style
- Pioneered same-day reception slideshows in Syracuse since 2000
- Family-owned business with 20+ years of commercial photography expertise
- Offer complete wedding coverage including photography, videography, and photo booths
- Feature custom Radiant LED photo booth with integrated sound system
Services
Wedding Photography
Our wedding photography service documents ceremonies and celebrations with a candid, artistic approach that prioritizes authentic moments over posed shots. With coverage starting 2 hours before ceremonies and continuing through receptions, we capture 1000+ high-resolution images on USB drives. Our signature same-day slideshows instantly share edited photos with guests, creating memorable experiences while maintaining a fun, unobtrusive presence throughout events.
Videography
Professional videography packages range from basic coverage to multi-day documentary filmmaking, using up to 5 cameras shooting in 4K resolution. Our team creates highlight reels from 3-10 minutes long, including social media teasers and pre-wedding interviews. With access to all raw footage and copyright releases, clients receive comprehensive digital packages on USB drives plus online delivery, ensuring every important moment is preserved in cinematic quality.
Photo Booth Rental
Radiant Photo Booth offers a unique LED-lit experience with integrated Bose sound system for weddings and special events. Available in 3-hour ($650) or 4-hour ($750) packages, our translucent booth creates vibrant, shareable memories with instant print options. The rental includes professional setup and operation, making it a popular addition to receptions while complementing our photography services with additional guest engagement.
Portrait Sessions
Custom portrait sessions combine classic fine art techniques with modern digital workflow for individuals, families, and businesses. Offering 15-60 minute sessions with 4-8 digital downloads, our studio features instant iPad previews and flexible pricing tiers. The service includes online galleries for 3 months, with options for additional prints and lab-quality reproductions, all captured using our signature Rembrandt-inspired lighting techniques.
Corporate Headshots
Business portrait services focus on creating authentic, personality-driven images for professional profiles. Our relaxed studio environment produces both color and black-and-white options with classic and contemporary styling. Sessions include immediate digital previews and multiple outfit change options within scheduled time blocks, ensuring clients receive polished, brand-appropriate imagery that reflects their professional identity and personal style.
People
Dava Needle
Owner & Creative Director
Founder of AlterImage Studio in 2000, Dava oversees all operations while maintaining a hands-on approach to client service. With a focus on technological innovation and artistic excellence, she manages a team that shoots 75+ weddings annually while maintaining a family-centered business philosophy.
Rick Needle
Lead Photographer
Award-winning photographer with BFA from RIT, Rick brings commercial expertise to wedding photography. With 30+ years experience shooting for magazines and ad agencies, he specializes in creative lighting and has developed the studio's signature same-day slideshow technology since 2000.
Questions
What wedding photography packages do you offer?
We offer four main photography packages ranging from $2850 to $12,000, including USB drives with 1000+ images, albums, and same-day slideshows. Custom options and add-ons are also available.
Do you provide videography services?
Yes, our Needle Media division offers videography packages from $3200 to $9500, including multiple cameras, highlight films, and documentary-style coverage with professional editing and delivery.
How far in advance should we book?
We recommend booking 9-12 months in advance for peak dates, though we maintain some flexibility for off-season weddings and special arrangements.
Do you travel for weddings?
We service Syracuse and Central New York, with travel fees for locations beyond 60 minutes. We've photographed weddings nationwide and maintain equipment for destination events.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and checks. A 25% deposit secures your date, with 70% due two weeks before the event and final payment at delivery.
Can we see sample work?
Yes, our online gallery showcases over 300 complete weddings, with YouTube channels featuring 135K+ subscribers for videography samples and real-time event coverage examples.
