This image is from a fellow photographer. Now, normally I’ve always said I’ve never cared much about people shooting over my shoulder cuz I know that happens, but this is an interesting take on why guests should just be guests sometimes.

“16 cameras visible in this shot.

The fact that lots of people are shooting at the wedding is not new. What I want to point out is what the cost is, both to the client and the guests. Look closely at the photo and you will see that those with cameras are looking at the settings, chimping, or framing their shots. One guy is actually looking at me!

What they are not looking at, and witnessing, and enjoying, and taking a mental image of, is the bride walking down the aisle with her dad. They are all missing it! And this is the image the bride will receive—not smiling friendly faces—happy to see her so happy. Instead, a bunch of people looking down.

It saddens me.

The camera makes everyone a tourist in other people’s reality, and eventually in one’s own.”

Pretty good point, right?