 |
|
|
One’s approach to his or her profession is the key factor that determines the final
outcome of the work involved; however when it comes to wedding photography
“approach” becomes even more important, and should be of the utmost concern for a
bride and groom when selecting their photographer for that special day.
First a comment on style: Too often photographers are pigeon-holed into being
considered photojournalistic, traditional or a mix of the two and, although this has some
value, it is far too little information to make a complete judgment, and can be unfair to
the photographer. Any good photographer will tell you that he must be skilled at both
styles. This is because he must be adept at formal picture taking, while also being able to
operate on the fly, capturing the moments as they unfold. Therefore I prefer the term
“approach” and will use this term throughout this article so as not to bring about
confusion with the oft-repeated term “style”.
The Pictures
A photographer’s approach is the philosophy and attitude with which he performs his
craft. It is best understood through careful analysis of his photographs. It is highly
recommended that a client review many pictures of one particular wedding, as opposed to
a selection of “the best shots” pooled together from the last few years of picture taking.
Reviewing one wedding and its resultant images reveals a true consistency in picture
taking ability. In this way you are watching a day unfold and seeing through the eyes of
the photographer as he selects the most important moments to place on film. Is the
photographer able to consistently take good compositions throughout an entire event?
Does he have a good eye and observe the cherished moments you would want caught on
film? You are gaining an understanding of the image-takers sense of composition, and
what he or she views as a good and important image. The question you must ask yourself
is does his approach match yours? Viewing single images from a broad take of wedding
events provides little information on the true skills of the event photographer, but merely
proves that he or she gets lucky once in awhile.
One can further determine approach by watching the faces and poses of the people in the
pictures. Are the faces relaxed and at ease? Do the people look natural or posed? This is
a key point, as this betrays the demeanor of the photographer. Taking good people
pictures relies heavily upon the photographer’s ability to relate and appreciate his
audience. Basically, can he get along with the crowd and make friends? Does he do this
in such a way, as not to intrude or interject his own personality into the event? A really
good photographer is friendly yet invisible. Often the entire day has been caught on film,
yet the photographer has gone unnoticed. Another good way to sense the photographer’s
approach is through testimonials or referrals; what do other wedding couples have to say
about the photographer?
Rapport
Given the pictures are to your liking, the final determination of approach is done through
interview. Typically an interview is established to review the photographer’s work and to
get to know him or her. It is less important that you ask certain rote questions in this
interview, even though it is often stressed that certain rote questions get asked. What
really is of importance is rapport. As far as I’m concerned one could spend most of the
interview talking about the latest movie, as long as you are able to sense the true
demeanor of the photographer and analyze the photographs, you have accomplished the
goal of the interview. Are you able to establish a rapport with the photographer?
What is rapport? It is a certain level of friendliness and trust that develops during
conversation. Is this the type of person you wish to be around you on the most important
day of your life? Does he or she put you at ease and allow you to be yourself? These are
the most important questions you could ask, however they are done subjectively. Take a
moment after the interview and discuss what occurred. If your answers to the above
questions are positive, rapport has been established and this photographer is a candidate.
Add to this a good eye for consistent composition and a solid portfolio of images, and
you have your decision made. An experienced photographer books quickly so make your
decision quickly if he or she is the right one for the job.
Getting technical
Due to the advancement in technology and the relative ease with which anyone can get a
decent camera, one can attend any wedding these days and be surrounded by amateur
photographers working to capture family snapshots and coveted wedding moments. The
digital camera is ubiquitous. If a photographer is not at ease with this and his own picture
taking he or she can feel threatened by these meandering shutterbugs. Therefore it is
imperative that the photographer be at ease with his ability and willing to work with other
photographers, whether novice or professional. Personally I welcome the other
photographers as it provides further assurance that all important moments of the day will
become documented. The last thing anyone wants is a photographer with an attitude.
If there was one rote question I would recommend, it would be concerning back up
equipment. It is vital for the photographer to have plenty of back up cameras, flashes,
batteries and film or cards depending on whether digital or analog. By ensuring your
photographer carries with him plenty of back up equipment you are guaranteeing
successful documentation of your special day.
By the way
Once you have decided on your photographer it is recommended that you provide good
directions to any locations where the photographer is required to go. This includes hotel
or home, where the bride is getting ready, the church, reception hall and any other
location where formal pictures are being taken. Otherwise the photographer is relying
upon mapquest or other directions that can be inaccurate and inefficient.
It is also recommended that you provide the photographer with a list of formal pictures to
be taken on the day. In this way all family members and friends are included and no one
is left out in the rush of activity that makes up a full wedding day. Best of luck!
Written by Boston and New England wedding photographer Robert Castagna
www.robertcastagna.com
|
|
|
