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Sociotechnical Aspect Of Wedding &Amp; Event Photography
Written by: jason-row | July 3, 2009 3:21 PM in Photographers | 166 views | Tags: wedding , photography , technology , social , bridal , groom , California , Florida
I find that the first step in doing a successful wedding shoot comes not from a technical perspective, but from a social perspective. Most photographers worth their fees have the technical ability to capture the image. But what I've learned by working as a second shooter with other professionals is that not all photographers have the social skills to blend into the wedding (or other event) to capture the very unique images that sets one apart from "the rest."
When the photographer and or their staff are so uptight and focused that they come across so serious that they are almost avoided altogether by the event goers it does not make for good looking photographs. The camera does not lie and if the subject is feeling the negative energy coming from the photographer it shows in the image captured.
One thing that I have done that I feel helps this situation is really get to know my subjects prior to their day by spending some time with them and making myself available to them in the weeks leading up their event. This allows the client to get to know me, my style, my sense of humor and my overall personality type as well as (and most important) allows me to get to know them and really understand their needs and expectations from the shoot.
With unlimited long distance, free video conferencing, instant messaging and email as well as some face to face meetings this can be done with little or no cost to the client or the photographer. This technology allows me to live and work between California & Florida and anywhere else in the world. Information can be shared in real time, ideas exchanged and a bond can be formed between client and photographer no matter where either one is. That was not possible a few years back.
By taking advantage of the technology that is available to us now I have found that my photography has taken on a more personal aspect. I feel a bond with my subjects that I didn't a few years back and I'm glad to say that some have become friends and have turned into more referals to my business.
Moving forward I urge all of my colleagues to reach out to your clients and get to know them better through the available technology and find out what they really want from the images you will capture for them. I think you will find as I have that the images will come out "warmer" and show just that little bit more emotion that will set you apart from the rest!
