What Makes a Good Wedding Photojournalist?

By DAVID ROBERTS

A decent story-telling wedding photojournalist must possess the ability to make extraordinary wedding images from ordinary situations and not draw a lot of attention to oneself in the process. Subjects should forget there is a photographer around.

Talent is a HUGE factor. Talent can be measured in these three areas:

1. Technical - Smart gear choices and the knowledge to use it effortlessly.
2. Creativity - The ability to make something spectacular out of the mundane.
3. People Skills - Making subjects feel comfortable.

Photographers need a percentage of each of the three mentioned to consistently make good wedding images....

PLUS:

Range. In a short period of time, a photographer at a wedding can find the need to photograph a detail, make a quick portrait, capture a fleeting moment, shoot some fast action, record an architecture interior or exterior and document kids just being kids. This could all happen in the first 30 minutes at a wedding.

Sensitivity. It's an emotional day for many attending. Some photographers can attend a wedding and be so focused on getting 'THE' shots of the shoes, rings, flowers and cake that they completely miss the emotional impact the day is having on everyone around them.

Quick Reflexes. Things happen fast at a wedding.

Timing. Knowing the precise moment to push that button.

Ability to Anticipate. One needs to anticipate what is going to happen before it happens and have the right lens, settings and position before the shot. A hug, a look or expression and those countless off-moments that make for great images.

Endurance. It can be a loooooong, physical day without many breaks, sometimes none at all.

Know How To Have Fun! It's a day of celebration with happy people all around you...share their joy with them!