Matrimony, medieval style
Wedding photography is an entirely different world to the ones I normally visit. It carries high stakes, high expectations and a polished "editorial" aesthetic that feels far away from the rough-around-the-edges, documentary photography that got me into this craft.
And yet, I can understand why it is the most celebrated niche in the photography world. The responsibility of documenting the most important day in a couple’s life brings with it enormous rewards as you might expect on a day that celebrates love and commitment.
Capturing Bobby and Vivienne’s wedding marked a big developmental milestone for me, testing all of my skills from planning to pivoting to post-production (excuse the alliteration).
When I have shot weddings in the past as a videographer, I've had the safety net of a lead photographer. My role felt more workmanlike than artistic.
But you don't grow if you don't push yourself.
Being the sole shooter for this wedding was a dive in the deep end. Between a last-minute venue change, 39°C heat and the run-and-gun flow of lugging light stands and creative direction, it was a sizeable step beyond my introverted comfort zone.
But the reward is always the connection. From the coffee catch-ups weeks prior to "game plan" the day to the D&D-themed groom’s party, it was an enriching way to start the year (and reminder to lean into what makes you "you").
I’m still figuring out my niche, or if I even want one, but doing justice to a day like this makes the pressure worth it. Huge thanks and congratulations to Vivienne and Bobby for trusting me with the vision!
