Most people are not comfortable in front of a camera. Some tell me so right away. Others say “we’re not very photogenic” before I’ve taken a single picture. If that sounds like you, you’re in good company, because it describes most of my couples.

I’m Katia, a Colombian-Austrian wedding photographer based in Bogotá. Here’s what working with me feels like, and why couples choose me for their weddings in Colombia and abroad.

Why Do Couples Choose Me?

There are three reasons that come up again and again.

A European Editorial Eye, With Colombian Warmth

I grew up between two cultures, and I’ve photographed weddings and editorial work in Europe, including Italy. I love architecture, fashion, strong composition and the slightly uncommon angle. I also love the color, noise and affection of a Colombian celebration. My photographs try to hold both: a frame that’s been looked at carefully, with people in it who are actually having a good time.

You Won’t Spend Your Wedding Posing

You hired a photographer, not a director. I’m not going to line you up against every wall at the venue. I’d rather find good light, put you in it, and let the day happen.

You Can Plan From Anywhere

Many of my couples are Colombian-American, Colombian-European, or planning from another time zone entirely. I work in English and Spanish, and I’m used to couples who can’t visit the venue before the wedding.

How I Help You Feel Comfortable in Front of the Camera

Feeling comfortable isn’t a personality trait. It comes from knowing what’s going to happen and trusting the person holding the camera. This is how I try to build that.

We Talk Before the Wedding

We’ll talk about your day, your families, and the things you’re nervous about. Maybe it’s your smile in photos, or your dad hating cameras. By the wedding, you’re not meeting a stranger.

An Engagement Session Helps More Than You’d Think

If you can, do one. It’s practice with no pressure, and you’ll see how I work before the day that matters. I wrote about the best places in Bogotá for an engagement session if you want ideas.

I Give Direction, Not Stiff Poses

Instead of “put your hand here, chin down,” I’ll give you something to do. Walk together, whisper something to each other, take a breath. Movement and conversation do more for you than a pose ever will.

I Photograph What Happens Between the Portraits

Your uncle’s toast, your grandmother fixing your veil, the reception getting louder. A lot of your wedding happens when nobody is looking at me, and that’s usually where my favorite frames come from.

I Pay Attention to Your Guests, Too

Family portraits are where people tense up the most. I keep them quick, organized and kind, so nobody feels like they’re waiting in line for a school photo.

What a Relaxed Wedding Day Looks Like With Me

Your portraits are planned around the light and your timeline, not squeezed in at the end when everyone’s tired. We keep them short, usually with a pause before the reception so you can actually be at your own party. The rest of the day, I stay close without hovering. You’ll forget I’m there more often than you’d expect.

What to Look for When Choosing a Wedding Photographer in Colombia

Before you book anyone, including me, consider these questions:

• Do their complete galleries feel like real days, or only a highlight reel of portraits?
• Do they look at the setting, or do they photograph everything the same way?
• Can you picture yourself relaxed with them for ten hours?
• Do they have experience with destination or multicultural weddings?
• Do they respond to your messages in a way that feels like a person, not a template?

You’ll spend your entire wedding day with this person. Chemistry matters as much as a beautiful portfolio.

Frequently Asked Questions

I hate being photographed. Is that a problem?

No, it’s my favorite kind of couple. I plan around it with direction that feels like conversation, not posing.

Do I need to know how to pose?

Not at all. I’ll tell you where to stand, where to look, and what to do. If you’re unsure, ask me. If you’re still unsure, let’s do an engagement session first.

Do you photograph destination weddings in Colombia?

Yes. I photograph weddings in Bogotá and the surrounding countryside, and across Colombia and abroad.

Do you speak English and Spanish?

Yes, both. I’m happy to plan in whichever feels better for you, or a mix of the two.

Do you offer engagement sessions?

Yes. They’re a good way to get comfortable with the camera before the wedding.

Thinking About Your Wedding in Colombia?

If you’ve read this far and thought “that sounds like us,” I’d love to hear about your plans.

I’m Katia Pistulka, a wedding photographer based in Bogotá, photographing weddings across Colombia and abroad. Tell me about your venue, your families, and the part of the day you’re most nervous about. We’ll start there.

Explore my wedding portfolio or get in touch to tell me about your day.