A Wedding is Like the Super Bowl
November 30, 2008 by David Bergman
In an in-depth interview on the PhotoShelter Blog, Portland-based photographer Craig Mitchelldyer talks about his work as a news, sports, commercial, and wedding photographer. I’m honored that he mentions my name alongside other photographers whose work he likes: Joe McNally, Vincent Laforet, Dave Black, Robert Seale, Chase Jarvis, and Darren Carroll. Quite a group.
In reading the interview and looking at Craig’s site, it really makes me appreciate great wedding photography. I’ve shot a handful of weddings over the years, but it’s usually a favor-for-a-friend type thing. Most of my energy has gone into my work as a sports and music photographer.
But weddings aren’t all that different from the big events I usually cover. Photographically, I have to deal with changing light and fast-paced action. I have to be a fly on the wall, while still being ready to catch a fleeting moment.
A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event and there’s no room for error. The wedding cake will be gone by the end of the night and the flowers will die in a few days. But the photos will last forever and might be passed down for generations. For many people, it’s the only physical memory of one of the most important days in their life.
That’s pretty serious.
I have nearly 20 years of experience as a photojournalist covering news, sports, and music tours around the world. I have to nail it every time. I can’t call my editor after the Super Bowl and say that I don’t have “the shot” because my batteries died or I dropped my lens during the game-winning touchdown. The images are all that matter.
So in addition to my other work, I’ve decided to take on wedding clients during the upcoming year. I’ll also be shooting some engagement films using the newest crop of DSLR cameras that capture high definition video. It’s an exciting time to be a photographer.
I’m offering couples a special rate if they’re getting married in the next couple of months. If you or someone you know is getting married, feel free to get in touch at David [at] DavidBergman [dot] net or 212.851.3167.
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