Archive for May 2008
What Is Your Style?
One of the most important questions in the wedding portrait business is often times asked of the wrong person – the photographer! While it is very true that most professional photographers have a style that they can be identified with, it is not necessarily important what this style is. At least that is my opinion.
Style is a concept that is constantly developing and changing over time. It is more a cumulation of experience, trend, and personal and professional development. As in all aspects of life, it should be impossible to remain static within an art form. It is certain that I have a style of preference in each area of photography. It is equally true that my thirst for knowledge leads me to experiment with a variety of styles. And while I can be steadfast in my opinions, it would be a disservice to my growth as a photographer if I was unwilling to admit a new trend (like textures) could create a fabulous alternative, or that some photography styles (such as selective color) could fall out of favor.
It is the bride and groom’s style that matters most. And it is the mark of a good professional wedding photographer if she/he asks this question and determines the correct answer. Many clients only think they know! Their initial response is based on what they have seen or experienced. Only a handful have truly researched the many styles or combination of styles that exist, or are waiting to be discovered.
Over the years I have asked “What is your favorite style?” to every bride. On many ocassions their verbal choice is not really what they are looking for to capture their day’s events. It is therefore imperative to actually show examples, to ask probing questions, to really listen to what is said, and to shoot 1000+ images, concentrating on what style has been determined – but making sure to include other styles. After all, we sometimes don’t know what we truly love unless we see it.
Perhaps the question that a photographer should be asked is:
“What Styles are you Capable of Doing Well?”
