I have heard the terms documentary photography and photojournalism or photojournalistic photography numerous times having the same meaning or possibly different meanings. These two styles are quite similar but do have differences. What do these terms mean to you? Let's take a brief look at what they mean to me.
My last article displayed the style of documentary photography itself in a little more depth. What is it in relation or comparison to the photojournalistic style? Let's first get a quick sum up on the former.
Documentary photography is more of a close up view of the wedding over the timeline. You see what has taken place from a point in time to another, including events within "documenting the event." This would show progression within the event. Displaying the location, the flowers and decor, the bride's gown, and her preparation for the moment she has anxiously anticipated, the ceremony and formalities within it, and moving to the reception where the family and guests celebrate the very special occasion with the new bride and groom. This order and style of photography allows you to put yourself there in the day and experience it for the first time or all over again.
The photojournalist style is quite similar to documentary but I believe with a more creative approach. It is a candid, unplanned, style that contains meaning or even a story within it. It conveys information. There are unique and creative ways within photography to tell a story or show emotion. I believe within the style, the story told is not so black and white, (No pun intended, I actually love my shoots in black and white), but rather with a little more thought, and developed skill. Photojournalism is a buzzword used frequently in the photography industry and I wonder how many people really have a solid understanding on what it truly means.
These terms could quite possibly be synonymous with each other by many people's standards. I suppose these meanings could be slightly different for everyone and I hope that I have clarified my professional views on them.
Until Next Time, Michelle Noel www.michellenoelphoto.com
Michelle Noel Photography provides wedding photography in Orange County, wedding photography in Los Angeles, and throughout Southern California.
All Images copyright protected by Michelle Noel Photography.
i love the wedding plan, especially the sitting so romantic
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