Isn't Wedding Photography Easy Now?

Film v Digital

When I got married my wedding photographer used a medium format film camera to capture a grand total of 64 images, out of which I got to choose 20 for my album. I have to admit that even that choice took me a very long time! Coverage included a couple of images of me at home getting ready and ended with the mock cutting of the cake before the meal. Having shot a wedding on medium format film myself, it was waiting for the developing that was the most stressful part, but with so few images to play with, every image had to count.

Now we have digital cameras, the photographer has the freedom to take many more photographs, and has the reassurance of checking the images as they go along. However, the customers’ expectations have shifted in line with this new capacity. Instead of 60 images to choose from, there is an expectation that there will be hundreds. The amount of coverage expected has also increased taking in the bride getting ready through to some photographers being there when the lights come back on at 1 am.

So What Do I Think, Is It Easier?

You will not be surprised to hear that I think not! I think the risks have been reduced, in terms removing the reliance on external developers, and the ability to check images as you go along. Also one bad image in hundreds is not really a problem, so you can try things that you would never have attempted on film. In terms of workload I would say it is definitely not easier with longer days and time after the wedding doing post processing.

If you did get married a while ago, spare a thought for the current day Bride and Groom who have to choose 20-60 photos from hundreds for their album.

I for one do not envy them that!



This is not intended as a rant – I am just a little tired this week of people telling me it is easy!