Share the Love

When I was a child one of my favorite times in school was on the day of show and tell. My classmates and I would each bring in something we thought was worth sharing and tell what made the object so special. Photography does the same thing; however, the photograph must do the showing and silent telling. Regarding wedding photography, I have learned that love is most important object to show and tell. There is nothing quite like photographing two people in love. At first they may be nervous simply based on the fact that the photographer is directing them to do certain things (i.e. hug, kiss, snuggle a little closer), but typically as the photo shoot progresses, the two relax and the story of their love unfolds. Great photographers know exactly what to say to help the couple “tell” their own story, but it is an art that hinges on the photographer’s ability to be amusing, affable, and authentic. When the photographer shows him or her true self, those he or she is capturing reciprocate with ease and the photograph provides insight into the thoughts, feelings, and emotions of those captured.

Avoid the Digital Graveyard

Much of photography today has migrated from film onto the memory card.  While viewing a picture on a camera, cell phone, or computer screen is nice, nothing quite compares to the hard copy secured in a family photo album.  Too often I find myself taking pictures and never putting forth the effort to have the picture printed.  Perhaps too much emphasis is placed on the façade of recalling memories and not on truly appreciating a photographed memory.  While the digital age may present the idea that printed pictures are not necessary, it also diminishes the worth of the pictures by granting access by many different vehicles.  The exclusivity of the use of film increases the value placed on each frame.  While a digital photographer (such as myself) may take 5-7 frames of a similar pose, a film photographer would take 1-2.  The film photographer places great value on each frame because the manipulation and development of film requires a bit more time and resources.  Printing pictures demonstrates the value assessed in the photograph.  And as we place great value on our fond memories gone by, we begin to place greater value on our present experience and memories yet to be made.