Rising Stars: Meet Max Sydko of Missouri

Today we’d like to introduce you to Max Sydko.

Hi Max, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I never planned to become a photographer — it just happened the moment I picked up a camera at 15. What started as a curiosity turned into a passion, and then into a career that has taken me across 7 countries, over 500 weddings, and countless emotional moments.

I grew up in Ukraine, where I first began shooting weddings. Over time, I built a name for myself, became one of the top-rated photographers in my city on MyWed, and even won the Best Photographer award across 4 states after moving to the U.S.

My style is cinematic and emotional — I love capturing real, unscripted moments. To me, photography isn’t about posing — it’s about connection, storytelling, and energy.

Today, I’m based in Missouri, continuing to grow my wedding photography business and helping people feel seen, confident, and beautiful in front of the camera.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road — and I’m actually thankful for that. Every struggle helped me grow not just as a photographer, but as a person.

Starting out in Ukraine, I had no mentors, no gear, and no money. I learned everything on my own, often editing photos late at night on a ten-year-old laptop, trying to make things work with what I had.

Later, the war forced me to leave my country and rebuild my life and business from scratch in the U.S. I didn’t know anyone here, and I had to start all over — new language, new market, new clients.
Just imagine trying to find clients in a new country where you don’t even speak the language — saying it was hard would be an understatement.

But every challenge taught me how to stay flexible, work harder, and stay true to my style. That’s what made me who I am today.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a wedding photographer — but more than that, I’m a storyteller. I specialize in cinematic, emotional photography that captures real, unscripted moments.

My goal isn’t just to take pretty pictures — I want my couples to feel something when they look at their photos. I focus on the connection between people, the in-between moments, the atmosphere, and the energy of the day.

I’m known for making people feel confident and relaxed in front of the camera, especially those who say “we’re awkward” or “we’ve never done this before.” Many of my couples say that they forgot I was even there — that’s when the real magic happens.

What sets me apart is my background — I’ve photographed over 500 weddings across 7 countries, and that taught me how to adapt to any light, any weather, and any culture. I bring European aesthetics, a calm presence, and deep emotional focus to every shoot.

What I’m most proud of is when people tell me: “You didn’t just capture how we looked — you captured how it felt.” That’s why I do this.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Most people are surprised to learn that I used to be a marketing director before becoming a full-time photographer. I built campaigns, studied consumer psychology, and helped companies grow — all of which now helps me grow my own brand with intention and clarity.

Another thing most people don’t know is that I’m also a musician and composer. Music taught me how to feel emotion deeply — and I bring that same sensitivity into my photography. I see images like sound: rhythm, silence, crescendo — moments building toward something meaningful.

Photography, for me, is not just technical — it’s emotional. That’s probably why people say my photos feel alive.

Pricing:

• Wedding photography packages start at $2,800
• Elopement packages from $2,000
• Engagement sessions from $400
• Custom packages available for destination weddings and multi-day events
• Let’s talk — I always tailor packages to fit your story and needs

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sydkowed.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sydko_maksym/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sydko.photographer