Nice to meet you
I'm David Morgenstern.

I've been photographing people for years, and I still think carefully before every job about how to make the best photos I can. I like coming prepared: knowing who's involved, what matters to them, what the place is like and how to work with the light.
Then I meet the actual people. Some are relaxed. Others are halfway through a stressful day and not exactly ready for pictures. I try to notice that quickly, adjust the pace and help. Sometimes a little direction is enough. Sometimes you have to help a happy moment happen before you can photograph it.
I especially enjoy family photos and portraits, where you can see how much people's comfort changes the picture. I often say that feeling good leads to better photos. At events, there's also the responsibility to pay attention to what's happening and make room for the people and moments that matter.
You can't know everything about the day in advance. I make plans, but I don't get attached to them. If we need to change location, shorten the walk or focus on the essential shots first, that's what I'll do. The point isn't to impress you with photography talk. It's to give you pictures you'll love.
I also work with ideas, content and technology, and I enjoy finding better, simpler ways to get things done. Photography is one of the places those interests come together. It's also what you can book me for here.
People, not poses
I adapt my guidance to who's in front of me instead of expecting everyone to feel the same way about being photographed.
A plan that leaves room for real life
Prepare in advance, decide in the moment, and adjust when time, place or people surprise us.
The important photos come first
I focus on what you've booked the shoot to achieve. Once that's covered, we can try the extra ideas.
Messages I've received
This part isn't written by me.
You managed to bridge a sensitivity we had with the girls, and with real skill you led us to the photo of the family hug. You didn't pounce, and you didn't panic, and you got it.
Four Bar Mitzvahs in our family. Besides a photographer of the highest level, we got to know an amazing person. Everyone who sees the albums is moved by their beauty and asks who the photographer is.
We've done several events and never met a photographer like you. The album is perfect, everything stylish and at a high level. We can't stop leafing through it.
Your gentleness and consideration in the craft of photography cannot be priced in money.
The album is amazing. You are very talented. You'll be the photographer for all our family events.
A lovely, thoughtful album, beautiful photos taken with a master's hand and the utmost attention. I appreciate the personal attitude and the patience with the delays on our side.
Thank you for the special investment and the patience with a smile. For the professionalism and thoroughness down to the last detail.
The pictures are stunning! I don't know how I will be able to choose photos for an album, they are all so good.
The album is insane. Service and reliability above and beyond.