Westport, CT

Event And Lifestyle Photography

Specializing in documentary-style storytelling. We capture the unscripted energy of the moment—unposed, genuine, and real.

Couple dancing closely at a wedding reception, surrounded by guests celebrating, with vibrant lighting enhancing the candid, joyful atmosphere.

Couple sitting together by the water at sunset, capturing a candid and intimate moment, reflecting the relaxed and authentic style of event and lifestyle photography.

Candid wedding guests celebrating on the dance floor, showcasing joyful expressions and lively energy in a vibrant setting.

Two women playfully posing with heart-shaped glasses at a lively event, capturing a candid moment of fun and celebration, reflecting the authentic, unposed style of Awesnap's event photography.

Candid moment of friends celebrating at a wedding reception in Westport, CT, showcasing joyful expressions and relaxed interactions, reflecting authentic event photography.

Group of men celebrating at a wedding reception, expressing joy and excitement, with vibrant lighting and a lively atmosphere, capturing authentic moments of connection and fun.

Bride's back with butterfly tattoo and groom's hand gently resting, capturing an intimate moment in wedding photography.

Group of five friends celebrating at a wedding reception, smiling and posing with colorful light-up party favors, capturing the lively atmosphere and authentic moments of the event.

Smiling couple enjoying a lively event, surrounded by warm bokeh lights, capturing the authentic energy and joy of candid moments in lifestyle photography.

Candid moment of wedding guests joyfully singing and celebrating, showcasing authentic emotions and energy in a lively event atmosphere.

Woman in a vibrant pink dress laughing and dancing joyfully at a lively event, surrounded by elegantly dressed guests, capturing the authentic energy and candid moments of celebration.

Bride being lifted by friends during lively wedding celebration, showcasing candid moments and joyful atmosphere in event photography.

Bride smiling with two women in elegant attire, celebrating at a wedding reception, capturing candid joy and connection.

Bridesmaid and bride wearing heart-shaped sunglasses, holding bouquets, smiling in a relaxed outdoor wedding setting.

Three women joyfully posing with glowing sticks at a lively event, capturing the vibrant energy and authentic moments of celebration.

We Don't Create The Moments, We Just Make Sure You Keep Them.

Candid

Photography that blends storytelling with relaxed portraits that never feel stiff or forced.

Authentic

We capture the atmosphere as it happens, creating images that feel genuine and timeless.

Vivid

The top photos are expertly edited and color graded to showcase the best memories.

Immersive

We don't just watch from the sidelines; we capture the feeling of actually being there.

His pictures were fun, vibrant, and full of life — they perfectly caught the energy of the moment and all the joy we were feeling. We’re so grateful to have these memories

Alexandra Junn

He captured the energy of our event perfectly! Loved the candid photos he was able to get without ruining the moment. Would absolutely use him again.

Aly P

Michael was great! He seamlessly blended in with the audience and captured great candid shots of our band’s performance. Super nice guy as well.

Rich Cammarano

Capture the moment

Planning something special? Tell me a little about your vision

What is it that you do?

Services

Great photography requires knowing where to look. With over 30 years of event experience, we understand event flow.

We use this instinct and top-tier equipment to capture your vision with a vivid, authentic style that looks exactly how the moment felt to you.

The Energy

Events & Weddings

From the toasts to the dance floor, I capture the energy of the room and the fleeting moments you might miss, all without interrupting the flow of the fun.

The Connection

Family & Lifestyle

No stiff poses or matching outfits. Just you and your people. Authentic sessions that feel less like a photoshoot and more like simply hanging out.

The Feed

Content Creation

Ditch the boring stock photos. Get a custom library of high-energy, on-brand images designed specifically to keep your social media fresh and engaging.

About Me

Michael Sage

I didn’t learn photography in a studio. I cut my teeth in the dynamic, low-light energy of the nightlife scene over a decade ago. That high-pressure environment gave me a superpower: Instinct.

With over 30 years of experience in the entertainment industry, I understand the rhythm of an event. I know exactly when the energy is about to shift and when the moment is going to happen—so I’m ready to capture it before it’s gone.

Now based in Westport, I bring that technical mastery to private parties and candid lifestyle photography. I don’t interrupt the fun to pose you; I capture the vibe exactly as it feels.

One less thing to worry about.

Put your phone away and be present. You plan the event, we’ll preserve the memories.

BLOG

Westport Networking Event Photography | Gold Coast Connect at Gabriele’s

Capture the essence of your network at the Westport event with stunning photography. Elevate connections and memories with our expert lens today!

Photographer capturing candid moments at a lively private event, showcasing joyful interactions among guests

How to Communicate Your Photography Vision

Michael Sage December 20, 2025

How to Share Your Photography Vision with Clients — Real, Documentary Event Photos A photography vision is a short, clear statement of the look, mood,

Photographer capturing genuine emotions of two women laughing at a beautifully decorated event table with warm lighting and floral arrangements, showcasing candid interactions in a lively atmosphere.

How to Capture Genuine Emotions in Event Photography

Michael Sage December 18, 2025

How to Capture Genuine Emotion at Events: Practical Techniques for Authentic Storytelling Genuine emotion in event photography comes from unposed, unscripted reactions—the small, honest moments

Group of women at a dinner celebration, joyfully raising hands and smiling, capturing candid moments of happiness and connection in a lively event setting.

Capture the Magic: Wedding Reception Photography Essentials

Michael Sage December 15, 2025

Capture the magic of your wedding reception with stunning photography. From joyful party moments to dance floor shots, preserve your memories forever!

Frequently Asked Questions

We are really awkward in front of the camera. Can you help us look natural?

Absolutely. I don’t believe in stiff, frozen poses. My goal is to capture the real you. I’ll give you plenty of direction and prompts to get you moving, laughing, and interacting so you forget the camera is even there. You just focus on each other; I’ll handle the angles. My goal is to make it feel less like a photoshoot, and more like hanging out.

How long does it take to get our photos back?

I know you’re excited to see them, so I don’t make you wait months! You will receive yout photos around 24 hours of your event. The full, high-resolution gallery is typically delivered via link All photos are edited for color and lighting and delivered via a private online gallery you can share with friends and family immediately.

Do you just stand back, or do you get involved in the event?

With over 30 years of experience in the event industry (both behind the camera and the DJ booth), I know how to read a room. I blend in to capture candid moments without being intrusive, but I’m not afraid to step up and organize a chaotic family group shot when needed. I know the flow of a party better than anyone, ensuring we never miss a big moment.

What happens if your equipment breaks or you get sick?

our memories are too important to leave to chance. I always shoot with dual card slots (instant backups of every photo taken) and bring backup cameras and lenses to every single event. As a professional business, I also have a network of trusted associates in CT and NY who can step in if an absolute emergency occurs. You are covered no matter what.

We love your work! How do we secure our date?

It’s simple! Dates are booked on a first-come, first-served basis. Choose your favorite way to connect, by scrolling down and clicking the link under Connect.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of photography services do you offer?

I offer Event and Lifestyle photography. I pride myself on having the ability to shoot in low light situations, and to preserve the moment as you remember them.

How do you capture candid moments during events?

I make sure to scout for smiles, hugs, and fleeting moments that may only happen for a slice of time. By reading the room, I anticipate the perfect moment to hit the shutter button.

Can I view a gallery of your previous work?

Absolutely! Head on overto my portfolio page on my website.

What is your approach to wedding photography?

I like to think of myself more like a guest with a camera, rather than an orchestrator.Don't worry, we'll still do the traditional poses for the family.

What is your pricing for event photography?

My packages range depending on the event, but we start at $600 for a shoot up to 2 hours long.

How do you ensure natural moments are captured?

If I see a moment about to happen that I think is worth keeping, I wait for just the right moment, and click away. I try not to interupt the scene, and I just let the moment happen the way nature intended.

What locations do you recommend for lifestyle shoots?

Technically anywhere can be a lifestyle shoot, but I typically like to find parks, waterfronts, or any scene that I think would make a great background setting for a lifestyle shoot.

How long does it take to receive photos?

Not to boast, but I am faster than most. I typically like to return the finished album to my clients within 24 hours. I can't promise this for everyone, but I do get very excited to show the results of my work to the client.

Do you offer packages for wedding photography?

I do indeed. My wedding packages start at $3,000, and that includes myself, and one second shooter. This is the beginner package, and includes up to an 8 hour day.

What is your editing style for event photos?

My editing style has an almost surreal focus to it. I always expose and color correct for the face and skin tones to ensure my photos don't look too overdone. I like to give my photos a high dynamic range look, and a punchy contrast and color treatment, that makes my images jump off of the screen.

How many photographers will be at my event?

Depending on your event, I can have up to 3 photographers.

What should I wear for a lifestyle session?

Your lifestyle shoot should be about you, so I would like you to wear what you would wear for a hangout session with your friends or family, if you were to go to a restaurant. It doesn't have to be fancy, and it doesn't have to be laid back, it can be what makes you feel like, you!

Can you accommodate last-minute photography requests?

Of course, getting photography ideas in the moment is what I do best. If you have something you'd like me to capture in the moment, don't hesitate to shout it out.

What is your cancellation policy for bookings?

For any booking that has been canceled over a week in advance, I will return the deposit with a full refund. If its less than a week, please call so we can discuss.

How do you handle low-light photography situations?

I LOVE low light photography, its kind of my super power. I learned photography in the fast paced, low light environment of the nightlife scene. I use high quality equipment and creative photography techniques to capture in almost zero light.

What equipment do you use for events?

For the most part, I use Canon products, currently I have an R6 mark ii, and my core 4 lenses, which are 35mm, 50mm, 85mm, and 135mm.

Do you provide prints or albums after the shoot?

While I persoanlly don't print the images, I have strategic partners online where you can order your prints.

How do you prepare for a wedding shoot?

I start every important shoot with the same ritual, which is I make sure my memory cards are fresh with no photos on them, and all of my batteries are fully charged. I check the weather and traffic situation, and prepare my gear for the day ahead.

What is your experience with large events?

I thrive at large events. Gatherings of over 150 people are terrific, since there are so many emotions to capture. While I cannot capture everyone, I do try to get new faces everytime I look for the next shot.

Can you travel for destination weddings?

Absolutely. I've shot events in Colombia, Mexico, and Italy.

How do you capture emotions during events?

With over 30 years in the events industry, i've grown a sicth sense of reading a crowd. I anticipate a moment worth capturing, make sure my settings are correct, and wait for the emotions to show.

What is your favorite type of photography?

My favorite type of photography would have to be dancefloor, low light photography. That is where you really see people in their most honest self, having fun.

How do you work with clients before the shoot?

If its a family or lifestyle shoot, I like to get a sense of who they are, and what makes them smile. I like to treat my sessions less like a photoshoot, and more like hanging out.

What should I expect during a consultation?

Definitely expect some laughter. I like to joke around and keep consultations light, while getting to know what you have in mind for your photography, and how I can capture it.

How do you ensure client comfort during sessions?

I really like to make sure that my clients don't feel awkward in front of the lens, which is why I like to make people laugh as best as I can. Natural smiles beat posed smiles any day.

What is your turnaround time for wedding photos?

I really look forward to people's reactions to my photography, so I try to get them to the bride and groom as soon as 24 hours after the wedding.

Do you offer engagement photography sessions?

I do! Getting to know the bride and groom to be is always very fun, and I love capturing the emotions of the moment. My engagement photo sessions are more laid back, because I want to capture the real you, and your real emotions.

How do you handle unexpected weather on the day?

Whether its rain or shine, I can use the weather to my advantage. If its sunny out we can use that, if its raining out, we can use that as well. Remember, when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.

What is your approach to family portraits?

Family portraits can be tough, since the little ones have a limited attention span. I like to make the children feel comfortable with teh camer,a by giving them a job to do, and making them feel like they're in charge.

Can I customize my photography package?

Absolutely! Please do reach out with any specifications you need, so we can best accomodate your needs, and build you the perfect package for what you would like.