Oh, how I would have loved to attend the wedding at Cana (John 2:1-2). Weddings are such joyful occasions. Can you imagine attending one where Jesus was a guest? The happiness of His disciples celebrating, the crowd’s amazement at the miracle performed — how wonderful to see this take place. I’m not sure who this couple was, but I assume they forever felt it an honor Jesus celebrated with them.
For the past eight years, I have had the honor of capturing incredible memories like these. I stumbled into wedding photography after a friend asked if I would capture her wedding day. (She was very trusting, because I had no prior wedding photography experience.) However, I was so honored to be part of that day. Motivated by the joy I experienced celebrating her day, I went on to capture memories for many couples on one of the most important days in their lives.
Wedding photography today is far different than a few decades ago. Couples require various editing styles, posed portraits, 12-hour wedding days, and more. The years when a few portraits of the ceremony and family were sufficient are long gone. These days, a photographer is embedded with the families all day, walking with them through some of the most intimate moments of their lives.
Purpose & Vision
As a Christian, I approach wedding photography differently from my non-believing peers. Primarily, the wedding day is about the couple’s covenant before God. While the florals may be gorgeous, the bride’s dress stunning, and the reception filled with fun, food, and laughter, the day’s focus is the marriage covenant. My goal as the photographer is to display this covenant beautifully in a way that honors its significance. While I take many photos outside of the ceremony, each one points to the larger story and primary purpose of the day. Using the gifts God has given me, I can create beautiful, meaningful photographs that point to His role in the covenant.
As a Christian, I also approach wedding photography as an act of service. Some photographers believe a wedding day is about their portfolio or showcasing their talents. But rather than viewing each wedding as a platform for self-promotion, I approach each wedding as an opportunity to serve the couple.
This requires me to ask: What is meaningful to the couple? How can the gifts I bring best serve them and those they love? What beauty can I showcase that helps tell their story? How does my body language and presence help calm nerves and pinpoint the true meaning of the day? This helps me create my best work for their benefit.
Candid Impact
Often, wedding photographers find themselves in scenarios outside their responsibilities. I have pinned boutonnieres, wiped away tears, searched for and found relatives, and performed many other odd tasks. These small moments of service let my couples see I care about them. I’m not just a photographer; I am a friend placed there to serve them in the various ways God allows.
I’ve noticed you can create better photographs by paying closer attention to those around you. Frequently, the photos a couple loves most are not the ones they expected but the ones that capture a special moment with a parent or laughing with guests. A candid glimpse into the emotion of the day. After a loved one has passed, family images become especially important. A simple but meaningful memory becomes precious to a grieving family.
God has used photography to help me befriend and serve families I would not have known otherwise. Wedding days are very personal. Closest family and friends are gathered, and I — a complete stranger — am in their midst all day. Some couples and families have continued relationships with me after the wedding, which allows for friendships and opens doors to share the gospel.
Challenges & Rewards
It can be overwhelming to be responsible for capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments. Weddings constantly remind me of my need to rely on God and others for help. God is my Provider.
He gives perspective when serving becomes challenging. Confidence in my God-given skills helps me focus on glorifying Him, not on pleasing people.
Some Practical Advice
As a wedding photographer, first and foremost, pray for your couples. Pray before the wedding day and in the days after. Let them know you are rooting for the marriage, not just their wedding. Approach each opportunity with a servant’s heart. Remember the day isn’t about you, but use your gifts and talents to best capture their day and especially their beautiful covenant before God. Find ways to give back and be generous, whether through extra time with them before the wedding day or by jumping in to help with things that really aren’t your job. In these ways, you can glorify God and minister to others in a way that points to Him every time they see their pictures.
About the Writer: Rebekah Talbot is a stay-at-home mom and small business owner. When she’s not chasing one of her young boys, she enjoys spending time at parks, hiking, and making music.
