Of all the expenses for a wedding, photography always seems to be the one pushed to the back of the mind as there is always “that” friend who can take nice photos and studied photography twelve years ago at night school. It’s odd that this is the case, but apart from the dress and the wedding gifts, photos are the only quantifiable objects from your wedding, and they single-handedly capture the spirit and atmosphere of the big day long after it becomes just a memory.
We recommend, therefore, that couples always try to get the best photographer they possibly can. Price however, is not always a true indication of quality and it is important for the couple to hire a photographer with whom they feel they have a connection and who will bring out the best in them on their big day. A photographer works in one of two ways: either doing reportage-style photography, or posing. To gain a deeper understanding of these two terms, and how we should choose what will be best for us, we spoke to Michele Iacondino, head of the agency Foto Lux, a photographer from Naples who turned his passion into a successful profession.
Reportage Photo: Advantage
Reportage style is the kind of photography that captures the spontaneity of the moment, allowing the moment to live for a lifetime. This career choice has been very popular as of late and is the one most used styles in recent times. It must be said that a photographer who has adopted this style needs to really understand their client and have relationship built on trust with the couple.
“Reportage photography has come a long way in recent years thanks to new technologies, which allow you to always take great photos, no matter the conditions! Reportage gives the couple true and coherent memories from their big day. All the emotions; the smiles, tears of joy, tension, surprise, all of a sudden become a tangible entity, as nothing is forced – it is just raw emotion captured and the printed. To be a good reportage photographer, you must blend in with the guests. This job allows the couple to have a completely personal and unique photo album, because even though the circumstances are always similar, the reactions never are.”
Reportage Photo: Disadvantage
Of course, even though this is a very emotionally engaging method for partygoers, there may be contraindications related to the photographer’s ability, first and foremost, but also the type of relationship established between the photographer and newlyweds. Moreover, the result may not always be perfect, due to the exposure natural emotions some pictures may not be technically perfect. Michele Iacondino told us: “Individuals may not like the moment that has been caught on film as the photo was taken in a moment of spontaneity, therefore characterised by natural expressions. It is a subjective matter.”
Posing Photo: Advantage
The posing picture is the traditional wedding photo. In the past, the cameras do not allow you to work with the ambient light and working with artificial lights meant that there was a relatively compulsory pose in order to have an optimal result. Moreover, the use of a needle roller does not allow for a very high number of shots. “What works in favour for this kind of picture is the fact that all photos will be perfect on a technical level, never a light out of place. Each image can highlight the best part of the couple.”
Posing Photo: Disadvantage
On the other hand, the photo becomes an artifice, perfectly taken, but void of any spontaneity. The couple must also try to pose with pleasure and the photographer must have the ability to put the couple at ease. “I think it is a type of colder snap emotionally, as the expressions and poses should always be consistent with the light and they can sometimes be a little forced!” says Michele Iacondino.
We want thank Michele Iacondino from Foto Lux, for this insightful conversation about the differences between posing and reportage. The final conclusion is basically, feel at ease, this is really the only thing that matters because every picture tells your magnificent story anyway.
For more Photography articles, click here!
Don't want to miss out on the latest trends for your wedding?
Subscribe to our newsletter.
Leave a comment