Choosing a Boston Wedding Photographer, Part II

The Pictures

A photographer’s approach is the philosophy and attitude with which he performs his craft. It is best understood through careful analysis of his photographs. It is highly recommended that a client review many pictures of one particular wedding, as opposed to a selection of “the best shots” pooled together from the last few years of picture taking. Reviewing one wedding and its resultant images reveals a true consistency in picture taking ability. In this way you are watching a day unfold and seeing through the eyes of the photographer as he selects the most important moments to place on film. Is the photographer able to consistently take good compositions throughout an entire event? Does he have a good eye and observe the cherished moments you would want caught on film? You are gaining an understanding of the image-takers sense of composition, and what he or she views as a good and important image. The question you must ask yourself is does his approach match yours? Viewing single images from a broad take of wedding events provides little information on the true skills of the event photographer, but merely proves that he or she gets lucky once in awhile.

One can further determine approach by watching the faces and poses of the people in the pictures. Are the faces relaxed and at ease? Do the people look natural or posed? This is a key point, as this betrays the demeanor of the photographer. Taking good people pictures relies heavily upon the photographer’s ability to relate and appreciate his audience. Basically, can he get along with the crowd and make friends? Does he do this in such a way, as not to intrude or interject his own personality into the event? A really good photographer is friendly yet invisible. Often the entire day has been caught on film, yet the photographer has gone unnoticed. Another good way to sense the photographer’s approach is through testimonials or referrals; what do other wedding couples have to say about the photographer?

More to come...