Wedding and After...

Ok, so I have now seen the world of weddings from three perspectives, as a photographer, as a guest, and now, finally, as the groom. I must say, it was very interesting watching the photographers work at the wedding. I had fun watching, and was very fascinated watching them work. I noticed things that I may not have picked up on as a photographer, and realized how important those photos of guests really are. Everyone always says that the wedding goes by in a heartbeat, and that is not a joke. I remember only a few things from the day afterwards, regarding the wedding, and the biggest was how fast it went by.

It is crazy to think about how weddings work, and then to think about how this new knowledge can apply to my wedding photography. Some major points I must keep in mind are simple, but very meaningful. First, what you do and say as a photographer really counts, it is crazy, but there were some comments that were made that left an unsettling feeling among my wife's bridesmaids. I cannot seem to think of a time when I would have made such an unsettling feeling among my clients, but none the less, it has made me think about what I say and do much more. Afterall, I don't want any of my clients to be upset with me, especially because of something I said.

I had also noticed how crazy things were when we were trying to get our photos taken. I hate to say it, but to speed things up, I am now going to request that there be no spectators photographing along side me. Yeah, everyone wants great photos, but I need my clients to be looking at my camera, not to mention if we finish 10 or 20 minutes earlier than expected, they will be happier to join up with their friends and families at the reception. Above and beyond that, I see the importance of an off-site location for wedding photos. I see it as being more relaxing if the bride and groom can enjoy their time with the photos rather than hearing their lively and energetic guests partying in the distance. I know it made us feel less friendly about getting our photos taken, and more anxious to go to the party. It is frankly amazing what little gestures need to be made for such an ordeal.

It is crazy how much things need to be structured for an event like this to work smoothly, and in a timely manner. Most of all, I have to say that a wedding can be a ton of fun from all perspectives I have of them. I love working with the great people at weddings, and I have enjoyed the great selection of food that accompanies them.

Weddings are fun!!!