The term “photojournalism” is used quite a bit in the wedding world… And I’ve noticed new wedding clients asking for “candid photography” and shying away from the term photojournalism.
True photojournalism means telling a story through photos, like a news reporter. Just as the best news is told without the bias of the reporter, the best photojournalism is captured without the voice of the photographer. As a photojournalist, my role at a wedding is a silent one. I observe, discover and capture the beauty and emotions of the day. Except for directing the portrait portion, I don’t insert myself into that story. The best wedding photos are taken when the subject is completely unaware of the camera. If the subject is aware, even if directed to look away from the camera, then we have a portrait rather than photojournalism.
True photojournalism does require a bit more from you than relying on your photographer to direct and pose you. Photojournalism requires that you are truly in love with the person you’re marrying. It requires that you love your family and your life. Because photojournalism is honest reportage, whatever is there is what will show in the story. Laura, above, was so excited to marry Derrick; so happy on that day, so much love among the sisters and parents. Photojournalism is not for you if you want your wedding photos to show a beautiful dream wedding. True photojournalism is 100% for you if you want your photos to show your beautiful real wedding.
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