No wonder it can be so confusing for clients who are looking to capture not only the subtle nuisances of their day but to also have wonderful portraits of their families and bridal party. This is my personal take on the question of photography style when it comes to shooting a wedding. First of all, it takes a special type of photographer to cover a wedding thoroughly and to be personable and responsive to family and guests. Many photographers radiate to a certain style like a physician to a specialty. If a die cast photojournalist was asked to create a studio portrait, they may not have the skills necessary. I believe a wedding can be captured in a variety of styles that meet the needs of not only the bride and groom but their families as well. Couples gravitate to the documentary and candid and grandparents often want to see smiling faces. My philosophy incorporates a mix of styles that can document objectively and narratively but also use basic elements of light, symmetry and composition.
I get many clients who after reading all the latest magazine articles and looking at photographer portfolios stills say..... "I just want beautiful pictures." There are many traditionalists and many contemporary non-conformists. Its the photographer's job to listen to what types of photographs spur feelings and elicit emotions in the hearts of their clients. I shot this couple's wedding a while back and what I found not only from listening to them, but also deemed from their personalities was the need for simplicity and fun. Shelley and Hank's photographs reflect a classic traditional style yet they have many photographs that reflect a more candid, photojournalist approach. Shelley epitomizes grace and elegance. Throughout their day, I was able to get many candid, unsolicited shots as well as more formal posed shots. I had opportunity to be creative and to be inventive while being unobtrusive.
