About

We are Patken

Doug Gordon & Patken Photographer

Weddings move fast.
Real moments don’t wait — and neither do we.
For over four decades, Patken Photographer has been trusted to capture weddings on Long Island, at Walt Disney World, and throughout Central Florida with intention, style, and emotion. Founded by Patricia and Kenneth Gordon and led by internationally recognized photographer Doug Gordon, our team has photographed more than 29,000 weddings and milestone events worldwide.
Our work is known for refined posing, beautiful light, and images that feel cinematic, emotional, and real — not forced or trendy. With a full-time, in-house photography and film team, every wedding is approached with consistency, creativity, and care.
Recognized globally with honors including a United Nations Leadership Award and the distinction of former Nikon Ambassador, Doug Gordon leads every Patken team with one goal: create images you’ll still love decades from now.

We are Patken

Doug Gordon & Patken Photographer

Weddings move fast.
Real moments don’t wait — and neither do we.
For over four decades, Patken Photographer has been trusted to capture weddings on Long Island, at Walt Disney World, and throughout Central Florida with intention, style, and emotion. Founded by Patricia and Kenneth Gordon and led by internationally recognized photographer Doug Gordon, our team has photographed more than 29,000 weddings and milestone events worldwide.
Our work is known for refined posing, beautiful light, and images that feel cinematic, emotional, and real — not forced or trendy. With a full-time, in-house photography and film team, every wedding is approached with consistency, creativity, and care.
Recognized globally with honors including a United Nations Leadership Award and the distinction of former Nikon Ambassador, Doug Gordon leads every Patken team with one goal: create images you’ll still love decades from now.

Why Choose Patken Photographer?

🏆 Nikon Ambassador

Doug Gordon is one of a very few photographers worldwide to ever hold the prestigious title of Nikon Ambassador—a recognition reserved for the industry’s most accomplished artists.

🎓 WPPI Educator of the Year (2012)

Doug was named Educator of the Year by Wedding & Portrait Photographers International (WPPI), one of the most prestigious honors in the wedding photography industry.

📸 Creator of Flow Posing

Doug pioneered the Flow Posing technique, now taught to photographers around the world. This signature method captures authentic, cinematic moments that feel natural and timeless.

✨ 29,000+ Events Captured

From intimate ceremonies to grand celebrations, we’ve photographed over 29,000 weddings and events across Long Island, Florida, and international destinations.

🌍 UN Leadership Award Winner

In 2011, Doug received the United Nations Leadership Award for excellence in wedding and portrait photography, cementing his status as a global authority.

📸 WPPI Nikon Photographer of the Year (2013)

Doug was named Photographer of the Year by Wedding & Portrait Photographers International (WPPI), one of the most prestigious honors in the wedding photography industry.

⏳ 41-Year Legacy Since 1985

Patken Photographer has been the trusted choice for couples who demand excellence. Our four-decade track record speaks for itself.

👥 Full-Time Dedicated Team

Unlike studios that rely on freelancers, our team consists of passionate, full-time artists who live and breathe wedding and event photography every single day.

Creator of Flow Posing

Doug developed the Flow Posing technique, a revolutionary approach to wedding photography that captures authentic, emotional moments without stiff, forced poses. This method is now taught in photography workshops around the world.

Personal Teacher to Celebrities

Doug has served as a personal photography instructor to high-profile celebrities, Fortune 500 executives, and discerning clients who demand the very best.

International Lecturer & Bestselling Author

Doug has shared his expertise on stages worldwide and authored bestselling photography books that have influenced a generation of photographers.

Our Team: Full-Time Artists, Not Freelancers

At Patken Photographer, we don’t hire freelancers or contractors. Our team consists of dedicated, full-time artists who share Doug’s commitment to excellence. Every member of our team has been personally trained in the Flow Posing technique and upholds the same standards that have made Patken Photographer a trusted name for 41 years.

Our Approach: Cinematic, Timeless, Authentic

We believe your wedding photos should feel as real as the moments themselves. Our fly-on-the-wall approach allows us to capture genuine emotion, spontaneous laughter, and intimate connections—without interrupting your celebration.Using top-of-the-line equipment (Nikon Z9 and Z8, Sony a1 II, Sony FX3, Profoto lighting) and decades of experience, we create images that are both technically flawless and deeply emotional.

Trusted by Thousands, Recognized by the Industry

Trusted by Thousands, Recognized by the Industry
Best of Wedding Wire (multiple years)
The Knot Best of Weddings (multiple years)

Best of Long Island (multiple years)

Best of Orlando (multiple years)

Martha Stewart Weddings featured photographer

Zola Top Rated

Our Team: Full-Time Artists, Not Freelancers

At Patken Photographer, we don’t hire freelancers or contractors. Our team consists of dedicated, full-time artists who share Doug’s commitment to excellence. Every member of our team has been personally trained in the Flow Posing technique and upholds the same standards that have made Patken Photographer a trusted name for 41 years.

Our Approach: Cinematic, Timeless, Authentic

We believe your wedding photos should feel as real as the moments themselves. Our fly-on-the-wall approach allows us to capture genuine emotion, spontaneous laughter, and intimate connections—without interrupting your celebration.Using top-of-the-line equipment (Nikon Z9 and Z8, Sony a1 II, Sony FX3, Profoto lighting) and decades of experience, we create images that are both technically flawless and deeply emotional.

Trusted by Thousands, Recognized by the Industry

Trusted by Thousands, Recognized by the Industry
Best of Wedding Wire (multiple years)
The Knot Best of Weddings (multiple years)

Best of Long Island (multiple years)

Best of Orlando (multiple years)

Martha Stewart Weddings featured photographer

Zola Top Rated

Award

Award–Winning
Photographer

Doug received the United Nations Leadership Award for his contributions to wedding and portrait photography, recognizing his global impact on the craft.

UN Leadership Award In 2011

WPPI Educator and Motivator of the Year 2012

WPPI Nikon Photographer of the Year 2013

Serving New York, Florida & Beyond

While we’re based in Lindenhurst, New York, we specialize in destination weddings. Whether you’re planning an elegant affair in the Hamptons, a beachfront celebration in Miami, or a romantic escape to Italy, we bring the same level of artistry and professionalism to every location.Ready to work with the best?

Contact us today to book your consultation.
” Our vibrant and fun team in action!”