PHOTOJOURNALISM

A number of years back the phrase “photojournalism” was coined by a well known wedding photographer. The term caught on and subsequently brides have sought out a photojournalistic style for their weddings.

 So, what does that term really imply? And how is it done? In really simplistic terms we are talking about candid photos. To shoot“photojournalism" means the photographer is capturing the event, the moment,without interjecting himself into that moment. Candid photos. Now, mind you, done by a professional who looks at a scene and the light in that scene, chooses his/her perspective carefully and is aware of the background, the candid photo often becomes art. But it is still a candid. To quote the bard, “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.”

 Understanding this helps one to recognize that a purely photojournalistic wedding is going to please very few brides. In fact, as a couple goes through their wedding day, they find that they have no idea how to carry out many of the normal wedding rituals that occur. Without a wedding coordinator or experienced photographer to give some guidance, many end up feeling rather lost. But, as soon as I interject myself into the scene, by suggesting how to accomplish some action (such as cutting the cake) then it is no longer photojournalism.

 Or what parent of the wedding couple will be happy when getting to see their record of the day and finding no family pictures? As a photographer it would be unconscionable to leave those out. But that is not photojournalism.

 With that in mind, as you search out the person you want to record your day look for the person who can provide those “must have” family and group photos in a timely fashion and step back and let the event transpire and record it in a way that can and will be cherished for years to come.

 Over the weekend I spent some time with Leonore and Lester at the Washington Duke Inn in Durham. Following are a few examples of what a beautiful affair they had as well as how photojournalism and classic photography techniques combine for the perfect record.