Documentary wedding photography
The term ‘Documentary Wedding Photography’ is pretty much used by any wannabe wedding photographer nowadays….and in truth the terminology is something photographers fuss over more than wedding couples themselves.
Am I an ‘observational photographer’, maybe a ‘reportage photographer’, perhaps a ‘wedding photojournalist’? Well, I’m all of those, but mainly I’m me, with the one off opportunity to capture your wedding day in an artistic way.
I’m at your wedding to document the parts you may not otherwise see. Fleeting moments that happen behind your back, emotion that tells the story of your day, mannerisms that are typical to an individual or a simple still life photograph that sums up your wedding.
You can’t script it, you have to anticipate it
Documentary wedding photography isn’t a simple headshot of a guest laughing, but a skill you acquire over time. I follow the action, anticipate a moment, look for the most flattering of light and consider the best composition before capturing an image. You will no doubt be too nervous to look around whilst at the alter making your vows, yet this point in your wedding day is the part that passes you by fastest. What were the expression on guests faces as you entered the church? Did the groom look around as you walked down the aisle? You’ll not even remember where anyone was sitting, which is why the photos that you don’t necessarily ask me to take, are the ones that often become more poignant afterwards.
A picture paints a thousand words
A photo can bring a smile to your face, give a sense of the day or even re-live a moment that brought a tear to your eye. It maybe something you wish to cherish when you have grandchildren or just tag on facebook with your friends. Most of all, my photography is about people…..you, your family and the guests who surround you on your wedding day. The details may become forgotten, but the faces and memories of a day will last forever.
In short, my style is a mix of documentary wedding photography, with some creative couple portraits and a few group shots. I’m often described as friendly but unobtrusive and even considered a calming influence at times! Most importantly though I’m there to capture (not control) your wedding day. I may however move your wedding shoes to take a photo of them, but if that’s not your thing, I’ll simply leave them where they are!
A look – A laugh – A silly face – A smile – A tear – A moment shared
