One of the reasons I love shooting weddings is that I get to be present in a very different way than the rest of the guests. To be present means to participate, to have one’s whole self there, in the moment, fully engaged. Being behind the scenes as a photographer allows me to be intimately woven into the process of the big day. From make up early in the morning, to the last huzzah of sending the couple off, I participate in a way that few other people do. I have to undoubtedly be present.
But once in a while, I get to participate in weddings as a guest. Now, truthfully, I love being behind the camera more than I like being a guest at a wedding. With that said though, being a guest is a practice of presence in a much different way. Sure, I still *have* to bring a camera. (It’s like an extension of my body… going to a wedding without a camera would be a sin!). And sure, it takes me a while to stop looking at the photographer and get out of the “I wonder how I can get an awesome shot” mode. But when the party gets going and people get dancing, I’m glad that every once in a while, I get to dance and hang out with friends. I get to be present in a very different sort of way.
You can’t stop me from taking a few photos though ;).
Congrats Courtney and Dave!
(The wedding as at Beacon Church and the reception was held at the Carriage House, Galloway NJ)
show hide 1 comment