What does getting the moment mean?

Just as with our culture as a whole, the issue about what's "real" and what isn't often comes up in the context of Wedding Photojournalism. There is a great article about Capturing the moment at a wedding on WedPix, the online publication of the Wedding Photojournalism Association (yes I'm a member).
If you want to understand what *authentic* Wedding Photojournalism is, this is a great article! I am a self-admitted purist :-) It is extremely important to understand that if you want real wedding photojournalism, you need to get a real wedding photojournalist! There is a huge difference between shooting with a "photo journalistic style" (what is that, exactly??) and making images that capture a genuine moment. It takes hard work, timing, creativity, practice, patience, knowledge, and skill (plus a bunch of other adjectives) just like any craft ;-)
You may not even really want a wedding photojournalist to shoot your wedding, and that's ok! It is *not* for everyone. That's why it is important to understand what real Wedding Photojournalism is all about.
If you decide "Yeah, way cool! That's what I want!" Then ask yourself, "Does my photographer keep it real?"
Michael

Three two-bride weddings :-)

Unless you have been living in a cave (hiding with bin Laden?), you probably heard that same gender weddings are now legal in California. There will no doubt be continued legal wrangling on both sides of the issue, especially with a divisive proposition on November's ballot.

Some people are uncomfortable with the issue. I'm not. I want to shoot weddings of people in love, regardless of their sexual orientation, race, or religion. In a world full of so much pain and sadness, love in all colors, shapes, and forms deserves to be celebrated :-)

So on Tuesday June 17, I shot 2 wedding ceremonies in West Hollywood Park, both with 2 brides. The city of We Ho had set up shop in the park and an auditorium for the express purpose of issuing marriage licenses and performing civil ceremonies because the demand was so high. The LA Times has some great coverage of events around the State.

I went back Saturday to shoot Sandy and Nancy's wedding. It was awesome! I have great pictures to prove it! I'll post more throughout the week :-)

Enjoy,

Michael