Every year - May til about 0ctober - I do wedding photography. This type of gig is not for everyone, believe me. In fact, it's not really for me. Why?
I dislike it. I dread it. I fret over it.
And most of all, I don't want to hate photography because instead of doing what I want to do, I'm doing what others want.
Let me explain that better. I used to be a painter. It wasn't easy for me, but I was pretty good. I'd have people request that I paint things I had no idea how to paint. Needing the money, I'd try it and eventually give them what they wanted but not before breaking out in hives and feeling horrible.
I discovered photography and within a year or so decided never make the same mistake - I would only take photos of what I wanted. If someone wanted to purchase them - fantastic! If someone didn't like my style they could walk on by. It worked well for me.
I began to do wedding photography as a means of buying big ticket items (lenses, a new camera, getting the car fixed, etc.) I rememeber my father's warning (he had been a wedding photographer) about it being very hard work. I jumped in feet first and knew right away it wasn't something I'd ever do for a full time career. I am good at it.. in fact, the bridal couples I've shot have raved and recommended me to others.
I made a decision this past Fall after a very trying wedding where I lost everything off a 4G memory card (thank god it was recovered). I decided I would only do weddings the way I wanted to - photojournalistic style. Candids are my favorites and I think what I do best. When people inquire about my taking their wedding photos, I explain my style and add at the end of the response letter that "I know this style isn't for everyone. Thank you for considering me."
Yesterday was my last traditional wedding shoot (they had booked me 1 1/2 years in advance). I will say it was the most fun I've had shooting a wedding. Great people, beautiful wedding, and a whole lot of fun being had by all.
Here are a few shots that I've processed so far - I have over 600 do work on yet.
sigh ...
8 comments:
the top photo is a classic. Interesting read there .. I've admired your work for a long time and i'm certain you make people very happy on their 'special day' :) ALthough i don't envy you having to edit that amount of photo's!
Ha. I used to date a wedding photographer - and he had similar feelings about it. He did it to pay the bills. The two pics you'd added are beautiful tho, esp the bride and her grandmother.
I totally agree, wedding photography is not for everyone. I was scared to death my first few weddings, now I look forward to them. I'm mostly photojournalistic but I have been having a lot of fun with the creative posed shots as of late. Keep up the great work!
Thanks guys..
Josh, I just hate the "must have's" like uncle joe and aunt sally with bride and groom, then uncle tommy and aunt hildy with bride and groom.
yikes.. I hate formals! I do like fun photos with the wedding party, etc.
I can't see that I'd ever look forward to them BUT I do have a totally photojournalistic wedding in October and they will do ANYTHING.. which is fantastic :)
I can see why you were booked a year and a half ahead. You take stunning photos!!
Enjoy your creative freedom...it is priceless:)
They're great!! I love candid photography! :D
amazing! You are so talented. I love the candid quality of them too.
Your passion always comes to life in your work. BEAUTIFUL!
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