As a wedding photographer, The State Room Albany is one of those venues that never stops delivering—no matter the season, the light, or the timeline. Megan and Matt’s fall wedding was the perfect example of why this historic downtown Albany venue is such a dream to photograph.
From emotional moments and architectural backdrops to joyful chaos on the dance floor, their day had everything a photographer hopes for: meaning, movement, laughter, and incredible locations all within walking distance.
Getting Ready at the Renaissance Hotel Albany
Megan and Matt both got ready at the Renaissance Hotel Albany, a favorite starting point for weddings at the state room albany. For photographers, the Renaissance offers clean lines, modern interiors, and beautiful window light—ideal for documenting details, candid moments, and relaxed portraits.
Megan wore a stunning gown from A Love Story Bridal, and her look was completed by Purity Bridal for both hair and makeup. The overall style was timeless and elegant, perfectly aligned with the historic feel of the day.
A Private First Look Before the Ceremony
The couple chose to do a private first look at the Renaissance Hotel, which allowed for genuine emotion without distraction. From a photography perspective, this also opened up time for portraits around downtown Albany before the ceremony—one of the biggest advantages of a first look at the State Room Albany weddings.
Downtown Albany Wedding Portraits
One of the standout benefits of photographing a wedding at The State Room Albany is its proximity to iconic landmarks. Megan and Matt’s formal portraits included:
- The Albany State House
- The breathtaking Million Dollar Staircase
- Classic downtown Albany streets with classic architecture
These locations add scale, texture, and timeless character to wedding galleries, especially in autumn when the city comes alive with warm tones.
Ceremony Inside The State Room Ballroom
The ceremony took place inside the State Room Albany ballroom, a former bank building known for its soaring ceilings and architectural drama. The indoor ceremony space is ideal for photographers year-round, offering consistent lighting and a clean, elegant backdrop.
And then—one of the most memorable moments of the day.
A Ring Bearer Entrance to Remember 🐶
Megan and Matt’s dog made his way down the aisle as the ring bearer… sliding in, running full speed toward the couple, and wiping out in the process. From a storytelling perspective, this moment was pure gold—authentic laughter, surprise, and joy all in one sequence.
Elegant Fall Wedding Design
Florals by Ambiance Flowers and Rentals enhanced the ballroom without overpowering it—always a win for photography. The neutral palette, layered textures, and fall-inspired accents allowed the venue’s historic character to shine through.
A High-Energy Reception at The State Room Albany
Once the reception began, the energy shifted into full celebration mode. The dance floor at the State Room Albany is known for staying packed, and Megan and Matt’s guests did not disappoint—big moves, nonstop laughter, and moments that photographers live for.
Ending the Night in the Historic Vault
We finished the night with portraits inside The State Room Albany’s historic vault, one of the venue’s most unique features. These final images were dramatic, intimate, and the perfect way to close out a full wedding day story.
Wedding Vendor Team
- Venue: The State Room Albany Florist: Ambiance Flowers and Rentals Dress Boutique: A Love Story Bridal Cake Maker: Cocca Dotts Hair and Makeup Stylist: Purity Bridal
