85. The Love-Hate Relationship with Wedding Photography

One of the greatest joys of wedding photography is the immense satisfaction we get from capturing moments that will be cherished forever. The first time we delivered a wedding gallery and received heartfelt appreciation from the couple, it was a turning point. Knowing that our work is treasured and will be looked back on fondly for years warms our hearts. This recognition and gratitude are what propelled us from our full-time jobs into full-time entrepreneurship.

No two weddings are the same, and that’s what keeps things exciting and challenging. Each event brings new people, locations, weather conditions, and dynamics. This variety ensures that every time we pick up our cameras, it's a fresh experience. Whether it’s the vibe of the wedding, the relationship with the couple, or the vendors we work with, there's always something new and different to look forward to.

Wedding photography allows us to continually push our creative boundaries. Whether experimenting with prime lenses or trying out new techniques, there's always room for innovation. Conferences and workshops, like the Canada Photo Summit hosted by Taylor Jackson and Lindsay Coulter, provide invaluable insights and inspire us to see things from different perspectives. The diversity in approaches among photographers is a testament to the endless possibilities in this field.

Being an extrovert, the camera gives me the confidence to interact with people and direct them. I love the energy and spontaneity that comes with engaging with guests and capturing candid moments. Building a rapport with couples and their families creates a sense of camaraderie that enhances the entire wedding experience.

One of the significant challenges is finding and trusting staff who are as committed and passionate as we are. It's hard to find someone who will go above and beyond, especially for such a once-in-a-lifetime event. The process of hiring and training can be stressful, as it takes time for second shooters to align with our style and expectations.

While capturing the photos is exhilarating, editing can be a daunting task. The sheer volume of photos and the meticulous process of culling and editing can be overwhelming. Although understanding the final look we want to achieve is crucial, the actual editing process is something I could do without.

Wedding photography is physically demanding. Carrying heavy equipment, setting up gear, and being on our feet for hours can take a toll on our bodies. As much as we enjoy the workout, it can be exhausting, especially as we get older.

The high cost of gear is another downside. From cameras and lenses to computers and editing software, the investment required is substantial. Unlike other professions, the upfront costs are significant, and the return on investment takes time.

Collaborating with other vendors can be hit or miss. While we've made great friends in the industry who share our commitment to excellent service, we've also encountered vendors who don’t match our level of dedication. This can lead to frustration, especially when we know the event could be better coordinated.

Sometimes, clients have unrealistic expectations or are not well-informed about what to expect from their wedding vendors. This can lead to misunderstandings and dissatisfaction. It's disheartening to see clients stressed because of miscommunications or subpar services from other vendors.

Despite the challenges, the positive aspects of wedding photography far outweigh the negatives. The thrill of capturing beautiful moments, the joy of making couples happy, and the continuous learning and growth keep us passionate about what we do. Each wedding is a new adventure, and we embrace the diversity and excitement that comes with it. The connections we build and the memories we create make all the hard work worthwhile.