Tips & Trends to Consider
Weddings themselves are a timeless tradition, but just like anything else, trends come and go. Part of how you tell your story – whether you realize it or not – is influenced by what’s trending elsewhere. Here’s what’s gaining popularity in 2018, and why you should (or shouldn’t) consider it.
Assisted Photojournalism
It sounds like an oxymoron, since the very definition of photojournalism is letting the day unfold naturally. Photojournalists aim to capture the realism of each moment. The truth is, some people have a hard time letting go when a camera is present. And sometimes how we look in moments of complete candor aren’t the most flattering. Assisted photojournalism gives just a bit of guidance to set the course for some great, natural shots. And with a good photographer, you might not even realize they are doing it.
Same Day Edits
Sharing same-day photos at your reception is a tempting prospect. We all love instant gratification. However, the intrinsic value of photography is in its unparalleled ability to preserve a moment so we can revisit a time, place, and feeling as life goes on: to evoke nostalgia. This idea becomes diluted when you're looking at photos of moments that just happened. Guests will have ample opportunity to view photos long after the wedding. Be sure they are present and enjoying every moment of your day. Not to mention, if your photographer is editing your photos, they aren’t taking more pictures. They may miss a spectacular moment. Having your photographer focus on the day, rather than the turn around, is a better investment. In twenty years, you might not even remember the slide show at your wedding. But you’ll miss out on the photos you didn’t capture.
Unplugged Weddings
Asking guests to put away their phones (for at least part of the day) is getting more popular. When your guests connect to their phones, they disconnect from your celebration. After all the time, money, and effort you’ve put into planning, that’s reason enough. And while wedding hashtags are fun, you might want to retain control over what gets circulated first: the professional shots or the grainy smartphone ones shot in unflattering light. Lastly, when guests post pictures on their account, there’s hurt feelings to consider: there's a good chance that shared acquaintances that didn’t make the guest list will see them.
Film Photography
Film photography is making a comeback, and for those who like a filmic look, there’s no better way to achieve it. Most seasoned photographers got their start with film (myself included), and we tend to romanticize it. But here’s the thing: working with film requires a slower, more disciplined approach. You have to take your time. And you don’t really know what you’ll capture until after it’s developed. With digital, a photographer can work a bit faster: they can monitor, tweak, and change what’s not working on the spot. Personally, I think this is an important factor as ceremonies and receptions are fluid events. If you’re dead set on film, consider a digital photographer as your main, and hire a film photographer for an hour or two to get the best of both worlds.
At the end of the day, remember: trends are fleeting. Whether you opt for these won’t make or break your wedding. It’s the people, the celebration, and the story behind it all that makes it truly unforgettable.