International recognition for the work of The Hague wedding photographer
A bride floats through the air, lifted by cheering guests while string lights sparkle above. The image symbolises exactly what wedding photographer Paco van Leeuwen loves to capture most: real moments, pure emotion, and a touch of humor. That approach earned him a 4th place ranking at the 2025 International Masters of Wedding Photography competition for photographers in the Benelux this year.
Van Leeuwen finished among former winners and internationally renowned photographers. In total, 12 of his photographs were awarded within a single year – an exceptional achievement in wedding photography.
This year’s competition received 12,154 submissions from 450 photographers, of which only 3.3% received an award.
Based in The Hague, Van Leeuwen photographs weddings both nationally and internationally. His style is timeless and story-driven, leaving room for spontaneity and unexpected moments. Thanks to his calm and almost invisible presence, couples quickly feel at ease – something he considers essential.
“You can’t direct emotion,” says Van Leeuwen. “You have to sense it coming, be present when the unique moment unfolds, and press the shutter at exactly the right time. The trust couples place in me remains the greatest compliment.”
Alongside his gratitude toward couples, Van Leeuwen also emphasises the strength of the photography community. “The level at which photographers continue to challenge and inspire one another elevates not only our work, but wedding photography as a whole to an international standard.”
Website: www.pacovanleeuwen.nl
Photo credit: Paco van Leeuwen