Let’s roll back the time a bit: it’s your grandparents’ wedding day. The year is 1950, and the world is embracing black and white film photography. Wedding photographers back then were like “intimidating” magicians, capturing love, joy, and the occasional awkward pose on rolls of film. Things were much more posed and key moments were the focus. Fast forward to today, and we find ourselves in the digital era, where wedding photography has undergone an exciting evolution.
Black and white photography was the bees knees. It had a particular charm, often leaning on the side of elegance with stiff poses and locked smiles while the photographer prepared for the shot. Each click of the shutter was careful and held the weight of anticipation, as they hoped it captured without any flaws.
As time went on colour photography became more accessible and popular, Polaroid, the first instant camera, digital cameras, the concept from the 60s, further developed by Steven Sasson (Kodak) in 70s and popularised in 90s.
While the initial adoption was slow and wasn’t without its fair share of criticism… None could argue that Wedding photographers had a new tool in their hands: digital cameras. No more film rolls to change, no more waiting for development. It was a creative turning point. They could now snap away with wild abandon, experimenting with angles, lighting, and moments that previously would have perhaps been left to chance.
With digital photography, the wedding album transformed from a few meticulously chosen prints to a plethora of memories. Photographers could capture every candid smile, every teary-eyed glance, and every mischievous dance move. The pressure was off, and creativity soared. The once rigid world of wedding photography became infused with spontaneity, capturing the authenticity and raw emotions of the day.
As technology advanced, so did the possibilities. Professional-grade cameras became more accessible, and soon enough, anyone with a smartphone could become an amateur wedding photographer. Social media platforms like Instagram became virtual galleries, where filters and hashtags reigned supreme. Suddenly, weddings became a feast for the eyes, with couples sharing their special day with the world.
Yet, amidst this digital frenzy, a nostalgia for the past lingered. Couples seeking a touch of old-world charm started longing for the return of film photography. Like vinyl records or handwritten letters, film photography experienced a renaissance. Its dreamy aesthetics and nostalgic appeal found a place in the hearts of couples who wanted their weddings to be captured with a touch of vintage elegance.
Digital photographers recognise the timeless appeal of film photography with its soft tones, organic grain, and distinctive aesthetics. There is an undeniable allure in the way film captures light and preserves moments with an ethereal quality.
Today, wedding photography is a blend of tradition and innovation. From the artistic brilliance of black and white film to the limitless possibilities of digital imagery, photographers have the power to tell a couple’s unique love story through their endless creativity. Whether it’s a classic pose or an offbeat candid photo, the evolution of wedding photography continues to shape the way we capture and cherish these once-in-a-lifetime moments.
Imagine this: you’re on your couch, flipping through a wedding album or simply scrolling through Instagram. Try to soak in the incredible journey that photography has embarked on. It all started with the enchanting simplicity of black and white film, capturing moments with that timeless charm. Then, the digital revolution hit, unleashing a creative storm that blew our minds. It’s like witnessing the dance of art and technology, forever evolving right before our eyes. And in this enchanting fusion of the past and present, wedding photographers are the wizards capturing the love, laughter, and pure magic of weddings that will endure through the ages.
All photos are owned and copyrighted to Konrad Bazan, please respect.
