Oheka Castle takes its inspiration from that of a French Chateau, intersecting American taste with European style.
Positioned atop the highest point of Long Island, NY, this sprawling mansion is considered one of the most renowned venues in the world and holds the title of being the second-largest private home in the United States.
Its claim to fame doesn’t end there, with a number of celebrity sightings along with being the home for the palatial character of Charles Foster Kane in the 1941 film “Citizen Kane”.
Oheka’s unique namesake is an acronym of its owner, Otto Hermann Kahn, who launched its construction between 1914 and 1919 under the guidance of architects Delano and Aldrich. The mansions expanse includes over 100.000 square feet, 32 guest suites, a grand ballroom, formal dining room, terrace, an upper lawn, and formal gardens.
Couples will find the mood very reminiscent of the Roaring ’20s in this decadent setting. A gravel lane preceding the front facade, lined with thick trees, frames the passageway.
Lush gardens are meticulously groomed with a centralized water fountain and reflecting pools that create the illusion of an ever-expanding menagerie.
Of the many photographic opportunities both inside and out, the double staircase situated beyond Oheka’s entrance is surely its most iconic. Flanked by several windows and rich detail, the winding staircase would make anyone feel as though they were in their very own fairytale.
Whenever I have the opportunity to photograph a wedding at Oheka Castle in Huntington NY, I look forward to shooting bridal preparation in this stunning bridal suite. The bridal suite at Oheka Castle has some of the most delicious light I’ve ever seen. Between this suite, and the stunning grounds of the huge property, I am handed a multitude of photographic opportunities. There are so many excellent locations for wedding photography at Oheka Castle that it’s hard to allow enough time to use all of the beautiful backdrops it offers. Visit the venue website for more information on Oheka Castle Weddings.
Here, Alicia, a stunning bride, is sharing a moment with her flower girls shortly before she’s about to have a first look with her soon-to-be husband. The little girl just happened to look up at the bride in a way that allowed the light on her face to make the image as powerful as it is. They had a beautiful Greek Orthodox ceremony in the gardens and then celebrated the rest of the evening inside the castle ballroom.
I shot this image with my Nikon D5, a Nikkor 24-70mm lens and I used only the light from the window to capture it.
Location: 135 W Gate Dr, Huntington, NY 11743.
1/640; f/4.5; ISO 800; 27.0 mm.