What is Photojournalistic Wedding Photography?
Many photographers describe their style as “photojournalistic” or photojournalism, but what does that mean? Is it a clickbait title that photographers use because they don’t know their own style? And are wedding photographers actually photojournalists? Lets see…
What is Photojournalism?
Photojournalism, as defined by wikipedia, is a form of journalism that employs images in order to tell a news story. An important thing to note is that these journalists are supposed to only observe and not influence the things they are photographing. So, the photos you see of historical events, the photojournalist has not had any influence or staging people or things. But, does this apply to wedding photography?
How do you combine Photojournalism and Wedding Photography?
If you have a chance… look back at your parents or grandparents wedding photos. What will you see? Probably posed photos, looking straight on to the camera with a bright flash. Photos of the ceremony. Big group family photos with maybe half the people not smiling..
Now, if we now look at modern day wedding photography, you will see the photographer capturing the full story of the day. Essentially, photojournalism. This can go from capturing small details of the bride getting ready, certain things that are important to her, to capturing the entire bridal party getting loose on the dance floor. But, there is an important aspect to note in wedding photojournalism… does the wedding photographer influence the photos? Yes, of course. We pose couples. We direct “Look out the window” "or “Pretend to fix your watch”. And we make use of the environment “Let’s go outside and get photos of you in the sunset!” So, this goes directly against photojournalism, doesn’t it?
3 - My style of Wedding Photography “Photojournalism”.
When I describe photojournalism in my photography, I essentially mean, I am going to capture the real you during those your wedding day or engagement session… while influencing you at certain times. This means that I am going to focus on documenting the emotions of the day as they are… until it is time to pose to add different elements and bring the best you out. I mix in elements of fashion photography and dramatic landscapes. But, I do not allow you to feel uncomfortable while posing. Many photographers are uncomfortable with directing a posing session and may stick to only documenting moments. But, it is important to direct elegant posing during the wedding day because you are likely in love of the venue and want to make use of it! Also, your parents/grandparents will love those big dramatic poses. Mixing in the candid moments, these will pull you back into the wedding day and feel all of the emotions of that moment.
So, even in the posing, there is a combination of directing you and letting your love shine through allowing you to act and feel natural. Even in my more “fine-art” posing, its tailored towards how natural you are.
If you are seeking wedding photography services for 2021, reach out today and inquire about how I can help your dream wedding come true.
