
Anastasiia Polyakov
So Tender Is Humanity | Weddings: DC, VA, MD, NY & Beyond
A Photographer Capturing Authentic Human Experience
I was born in Ukraine and have recently celebrated my 10-year anniversary of coming to the US. I ‘blame’ my bluntness and forceful nature on my culture, which has also taught me to appreciate what I have at any given point. Like the Schuyler sister, I am never satisfied, but my restlessness fuels me to never stop exploring. SO TENDER IS HUMANITY, so vivid are the colors, so kind is human spirit, and wild are the lovers. We wrote this poem when we were daydreaming about what we want to achieve with our art. It extends past our work into our daily intentions because we appreciate the marvelous vastness of human experience, the beautiful life we can live when we allow ourselves to be emotionally authentic and expressive and kindly allow others to do the same. Everyone has passions that may be difficult to put into words and a mountain to climb that may be invisible to others. Our intention is to memorialize the essence of existence. To show not only what it looks like but what it feels like to be you, here and now. Compassion is our religion, kindness is our language. It goes without saying, but has to be said; we are welcoming to all denominations, orientations, beliefs, and life paths. Our hearts are always open to the diversity of minds, amplitude of feelings, and unapologetic vulnerability.
Anastasiia Polyakov is a talented wedding photographer serving DC, VA, MD, NY, and beyond. Her blog offers a variety of categories, including WEDDINGS, Engagements, Guides, and Personal narratives. Her approach focuses on a documentary style that prioritizes storytelling over static candid photos, capturing moments beyond typical expectations. Based in Arlington, Virginia, Anastasiia and her partner embrace every opportunity to travel, incorporating their experiences into their work. According to a testimonial on their about page, Anastasiia and her partner received high praise from Allison and Brad for their ability to create an organized yet fun wedding atmosphere. Their professionalism and enthusiasm, combined with a knack for capturing the perfect shot even in unconventional ways, make them stand out. Their unique style resonates well with couples seeking a personalized and genuine photographic experience.
6 WPJA Spotlight
18 Awards for Documentary Wedding Photography
68 Diamond Awards for Engagement Portraits
16 Awards from the Artistic Guild of Wedding Photojournalists
3 TOP Wedding Photographer Titles
The WPJA proudly recognizes Anastasiia Polyakov as a TOP International Wedding Photographer. Members holding the most contest points at the end of each year are ranked as TOP Wedding Photographers or, in some cases POY - Photographer of the Year.


