Photographers often speak in the third person, claiming things like, “McBeth has been in love with photography since birth and has dedicated their life to it, blah blah blah.” They then try to make themselves seem ultra-cool by mentioning their love for vintage cameras and vinyl records. You’ll read about their long walks on the beach, their affection for liquorice and Downton Abbey, and maybe even a quirky dislike for their own feet. You’ve seen it all before on other wedding photography websites.
But let’s be real, all that stuff doesn’t matter much. I assure you, I’m pretty down-to-earth.
I’m in my 35s, married, and living in the Scottish Borders. I have two wonderful kids and a new addition to the family, Basil, our puppy, who is the real apple of my eye.
I resisted the wedding industry’s tendency to categorize photographers into specific ‘types’. I cringed at labels like reportage, vintage, classical, and fine art. I didn’t want to be boxed in.
But I’ve come to terms with it now. While I still avoid labeling myself as x, y, or z, my work has naturally evolved into a more photojournalistic style (yes, it sounds a bit pretentious).
I aim to interfere as little as possible with my subjects. Of course, I’m always happy to take group shots and spend some quality time with the couple to capture beautiful moments together on their special day. But for the most part, I prefer to be an observer, capturing genuine moments as they unfold.
I believe couples want their wedding photography to include stunning shots of themselves, lovely group photos of friends and family, and images that show everyone having a great time. They want to see laughter during speeches, tears during vows, and wild dancing when the band starts playing. If that resonates with you, I might be the photographer you’re looking for. If not, you might prefer someone who met their life partner on a volcano and loves the smell of puppy breath.
A word of advice: steer clear of photographers who have pictures of themselves holding a camera on their website. And if you see any selective color images (you know, black and white with colorful flowers), report them to the United Nations for crimes against good taste.