Behind The Lens: Capturing a Wedding at The Inn at West Settlement in the Catskills
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Catskills, The Inn at West Settlement is a dream wedding venue for couples seeking a rustic yet elegant countryside celebration. As a wedding photographer, capturing the magic of this venue is an incredible experience—its breathtaking landscapes, charming barn, and golden-hour light make every shot a masterpiece.
If you’re considering The Inn at West Settlement for your wedding, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what makes this venue so special from a photographer’s perspective.
1. The Perfect Backdrop: The Catskills’ Natural Beauty
The first thing that stands out when shooting at The Inn at West Settlement is the stunning natural scenery. The venue is surrounded by rolling hills, open fields, and forested landscapes, creating a serene and romantic setting for wedding photos.
Best Outdoor Photo Locations:
The Open Fields – Ideal for dreamy sunset portraits with golden light cascading over the hills.
The Tree-Lined Pathways – A picturesque spot for intimate couple shots or first-look moments.
The Pond – Reflective water shots add depth and tranquility to the album.
The Rustic Fence Line – Perfect for capturing the couple walking hand in hand with the mountains in the background.
2. The Barn: Rustic Elegance at Its Best
The venue’s restored 19th-century barn is a photographer’s dream. With high ceilings, exposed wooden beams, and twinkling string lights, it provides the perfect balance of rustic charm and warm ambiance.
Best Barn Photo Moments:
Ceremony Setup – If couples opt for an indoor ceremony, the wooden backdrop and natural light streaming through the barn doors create a soft, romantic atmosphere.
Reception Candids – The barn glows beautifully at night, especially when filled with candlelight and string lights.
First Dance – The warm tones of the wood and soft lighting make every first dance photo feel intimate and cinematic.
3. The Inn & Getting Ready Suites: Cozy & Photogenic
The on-site Inn at West Settlement offers a cozy retreat for couples and their bridal parties to get ready. The rooms are filled with natural light and rustic charm, which is ideal for capturing those quiet, emotional pre-ceremony moments.
Best Getting Ready Shots:
Bride by the Window – Soft, natural light enhances the bride’s dress and details.
Candid Bridesmaids Moments – Whether it’s champagne toasts or final touch-ups, these moments tell a story.
Groom & Groomsmen Outside – The property offers great backdrops for classic, relaxed portraits.
4. The Ceremony: An Intimate, Scenic Experience
Couples can choose to have their ceremony outdoors with the mountains as their backdrop, creating a naturally breathtaking setting. The ceremony area is set up in an open field, allowing for an expansive view of the Catskills.
Best Ceremony Moments to Capture:
The Aisle Walk – The contrast of the lush green fields and the wedding attire makes for stunning imagery.
Emotional Reactions – Tears, laughter, and stolen glances make the ceremony unforgettable.
The First Kiss with the Mountains Behind – A must-have shot that encapsulates the beauty of the moment.
5. Golden Hour & Sunset: The Magic Hour
One of the biggest advantages of shooting at The Inn at West Settlement is the incredible golden hour light. The surrounding hills allow for soft, diffused sunlight that makes couples glow in their portraits.
Best Golden Hour Shots:
Couple Embracing in the Fields – The warm tones of the setting sun create a romantic, cinematic effect.
Silhouettes Against the Mountains – A perfect artistic touch to end the album.
Backlit Walking Shots – Adds depth and a dreamy quality to the images.
Pro Tip: Plan at least 20 minutes into the wedding timeline for dedicated golden-hour portraits.
6. The Reception: A Laid-Back Celebration Under the Stars
The barn and surrounding property allow for a relaxed, joyful reception filled with dancing, laughter, and celebration. The open space outside the barn is perfect for fire pits, lawn games, and sparkler exits, making for incredible candid moments.
Best Reception Shots:
First Dance with String Lights Above – Classic, romantic, and timeless.
Toasts & Reactions – Capturing heartfelt moments between friends and family.
Sparkler Exit or Nighttime Portraits – A fun and dramatic way to end the night.
Final Thoughts
From a photographer’s perspective, The Inn at West Settlement is one of the most breathtaking wedding venues in the Catskills. The blend of natural beauty, rustic charm, and golden-hour magic makes it an unforgettable place to capture love stories.
If you’re a couple dreaming of a romantic, nature-filled wedding in the Catskills, this venue is a perfect choice. And if you’re looking for a photographer who knows how to capture its magic, let’s chat! I’d love to document your love story in this incredible setting.