On The Sofa at Brides The Show - Part 1
I had a fantastic time recently chatting to visitors at Brides The Show during their 'On the Sofa' feature. My feature was essentially a discussion with Arabella Dupont of Brides Magazine about some of the things you should consider as you start looking for your wedding photographer.
Some of you will already have a clear idea of what you are looking for but for others the decision is less simple. I thought it could be useful to expand slightly on some of the topics I discussed with Arabella at Brides The Show.
Style of Photography
Probably the first thing to consider is what style of wedding photography do you like? Take time and look at the various styles of wedding photography by different photographers and think about the way you'd like your wedding day to be photographed. It's often said that other than your memories, your wedding photographs are the one big visual reminder of your wedding day. It's a bit of a cliche but it's true.
There are many ways of describing the multitude of styles of wedding photography, but essentially you have a choice between, traditional wedding photography, contemporary wedding photography and documentary/ reportage style.
It really is a case of working out what suits you best and how the style may impact your wedding day.
Traditional wedding photography - This typically involves a fairly formal approach to photography, with the photographer very much directing/ posing the photographs and choreographing some parts of the day. The majority of photographs will be posed with a real attention to detail. This style of formal photography can often be quite time consuming, especially if you choose to have lots of group photographs taken but the resulting classic wedding photographs may be just what you are looking for.
Contemporary Wedding Photography - A mix of the formal and informal elements of wedding photography but will often be quite relaxed and stylised. The posed photographs will be more contemporary in appearance, sometimes resembling fashion photographs in a magazine. Quirky composition and interesting locations and an element of fun may also be suggested by the photographer which create an edgy modern look.
Documentary Wedding Photography - This is me. Essentially it's the art of telling the wedding day story through candidly captured photographs. The photographer will work discreetly allowing you to enjoy every moment of your day with the minimum of interruption. The photographs will be a true reflection of your wedding day. Posed photographs are sometimes requested, but they are usually are kept to a minimum and are taken fairly quickly. I usually suggest no more than half a dozen with my clients. Once these are taken I spend ten minutes with the bride and groom, and then that's the posing over with and it's back to your friends and family!
One photographer or two…
I'm often asked if I'm the only photographer or if I work with anyone else. My style and preference is to work alone. I find it's less intrusive and think there is little to benefit to my style of work having two photographers. I'm confident in my ability to capture the little moments during the day without the need for another photographer. I also think it creates a really cohesive collection of photographs when the images are taken by one person. Also it's worth bearing in mind that two photographers will obviously be more noticeable at your wedding, so if you're after a really discreet approach then it may best to go for one photographer.
I received this feedback from a couple whose wedding I photographed recently."You managed to get so many brilliant candid shots of the people we love - and they're often very touching photos - the kind of shots you can never get when people are conscious you're taking a picture." Faith and Ian.
Two photographers can be useful during the preparations before the wedding with one with the bride and the other with the groom. Also, if you're looking for a more formal style of wedding photographer, they sometimes work with an assistant helping to organise/ light the photographs.
To find out more snippets of advice, please go to On The Sofa at Brides The Show - Part 2