Great work, Neale. Wedding shooting is hard. It’s not going to be to everybody’s taste, but it’s a person with a poor understanding of any form of art that ignores the fact that wedding photography is just that. Art.
Wedding photography = documentary, macro, event, fashion, beauty, couple, group, boudoir (occasionally), crowd controller etc PLUS a spoonful of your own special sauce (style). I've shot three weddings (all friends) and it's tough, exhausting but extremely rewarding....perhaps you could ask "John Smith" where you could view his portfolio and absorb his next level knowledge....or maybe not....and yeah, EVERYONE who shoots Fuji is paid by the company to do so...except me. Damn :-/
I had a shot at a wedding once for friends....disaster! No doubt I'd learn from that experience were I ever to do it again but I'm incredibly respectful of what wedding photographers bring to the table in terms of skillset and the pressures they face to get great shots.
I have no idea how anyone can have the patience, deal with the ever changing light and surroundings, and possess the sheer stamina to do creative and professional wedding photography. I salute you, and all the other successful pros. I'll stick with the slower paced, less stressful, and (thankfully) child free life of corporate headshots. Anyone who thinks photographing weddings, where there's no chance of a second and third "let's do it again" shot, is easy, is not only an idiot but demonstrably ignorant of the highly charged working environment.
Hi Greg... there's a lot to be said for corp headshots... many is the time I've wanted to get into that business myself. I think it may be my maturing years that makes me feel more comfortable with conversing with life's big business 'dudes.' Appreciate you dropping by.
Awesome video. I shoot weddings myself with the Fuji system. I've always found it odd that everyone says wedding photography is the lowest form of photography. Actually, before I really heavily got into weddings, to practice for them I used street photography. The thing I find the same about them, and honestly probably photojournalism is that you have to anticipate the moment and be there and ready for it. When the moment happens, if you're not there on the shutter you missed it. That's the same with weddings. Thanks for sharing this and being another voice to get rid of this myth that weddings are the lesser "art" of photography.
Thanks John, it's a tricky old subject, because bad wedding photographers appear over and over in films, and it kind of feeds those voices of agitation, mostly who have no real world experience of shooting one. Funnily enough I feel the same way for the amazing wedding singers, many of whom you'd happily pay to go and watch. Their only 'crime' it would seem is that they have the prefix 'wedding' before the noun. I've learned to really appreciate those who do this very very well.
Well, if ever there was a video to show that Wedding Photography is not 'the lowest form of art', it would be this one! I myself am a keen street photographer and look upon wedding photography as a more formalised version of street photography, probably leaning more towards the documentary side of things. It definitely seems to have some crossover in terms of skillset for street photography though. Having said that, when I go out and shoot street, I have quite literally the rest of my life to find something amazing and whilst I like to think it doesn't usually take a lifetime for street photographers to get something worthy of note, I don't envy the time pressure wedding photographers are placed under to get great shots and record the day. Sterling work Neale.
Thank you Andrew, your comment and thoughts are much appreciated. Interestingly enough I know of a few wedding photographers who promote their style as 'street photographers at weddings.' For some folk the idea of taking that concept of work into a wedding works well for them, though you're right, there is a certain time pressure that you'll not often encounter on the street, unless of course you're working on a particular story that demands so.
Hi Neale, having shot a number of weddings I was most impressed with your beautiful and stunning images. Anyone who thinks wedding photography is the lowest form of photography has perhaps never shot a wedding or is not paying attention. This photofilm was brilliant and very moving. Great work indeed Neale.
Thanks Joseph. It's a thrill to receive a positive comment like this especially when the commenter is someone with real 'coalface' experience of the genre. All the best.
Happy Christmas Neale, my first thoughts were if you’re going to troll at least use your real name. It was then pointed out that I am too a John Smith so it may be his real name! As an aspiring photographer I’d looked at weddings as a collection of group shots and a first dance, easy work. Until about 17 years ago when I was second photographer at a wedding. Wow! At the end of the day I was knackered. Eyes and ears are constantly on alert, it was stressful. I’ve covered about only 10 weddings in my own right and unless you’ve done it you really don’t appreciate the work that goes into shooting a wedding. When I look at your work and Mr. Mullins work it sends a shiver down my back, one of dread and awe. It’s tough work and rewarding work. Never judge until you’ve been in those shoes. Great video piece and one that needed addressing. Have a great new year Neale.
Ooops. Well, hello the real John Smith! Thanks for your comments and if you don't mind I may use these in the new Fujifilm unofficial podcast because you raise such strong thoughts. Have a great new year too! 2019 is going to be a good year, I can feel it!
I think I'm pretty decent but the thought of doing a wedding scares the hell out of me. Intense pressure, no reruns. You have to just live with whatever light you get on the day. You need to wrangle the clients and you need to be creative enough to make a set of images that captures someone's most important day. Yeah anyone can do that had my utmost respect for what that's worth.
Thanks Tony and I hope that in particular, the new breed of up and coming photographers read your thoughts, not to scare the life out of them, but to underline the standing the genre can have. Thanks for your time.
Wedding Photography is wonderful. These are the photographs that will still exist in families decades on. As for the xt3...... I'm now a proud owner.... 😀 going through a learning curve still.... but already have some incredible images in the bag. Super vid Neale... love the new studio. 😊
Thanks Steve. You know, I think you hit the nail on the head with 'learning curve.' I feel I'm still doing that to an extent. A 'lifetime' using the 5D means there is bound to be a period of that. Like you, loving it.
Wedding photography is a fantastic service. Those are some of the most important photos that will ever be taken of those people. They will be referenced for generations afterwards by that family. It may not be posh and artsy but it is genuine and important.
Bravo and ditto your thoughts. I'm going to make a film about those that kind of well, hide behind the fact they shoot weddings... to be fair it took me a while to come to terms with being labelled a 'wedding photographer,' and even though I do many other things, the weddings pay for my family, the mortgage, the bills and so on... so it's very much an important part of my life. I think the pressure laid on by other genres is part of the problem to those who work in our industry sometimes.
Lowest form of photography, I think not Neale. Your photofilm transcends conventional wedding photography and has become art and I for one am inspired.
Thanks Joseph. I hope the sound USP works in my favour when mixed with stills for sure. Interestingly Fujifilm introduced a new Instax camera this week that... wait for it... records sound at the moment you press the shutter button. Interesting concept.
This is great work. Photos like these is what makes this our profession the best in the world. It's more about the story and the art than the camera and I've decided, with the help of a couple of your photos to jump to Fuji from Canon when I'm able to. The XT3's image quality and nostalgic design just fits with me, although I'm sure it may be a bit of a process to switch to mirrorless from Canon to Fuji. Thanks man.
Thanks Falando and yes it does take a little time to get used to, surprisingly not too long though, even when you've been shooting Canon for well over a decade and Nikon before that (that's me in a nutshell). My last items of Canon leave these shores on Thursday; a C100 cinema camera (which in terms of quality is well below that that I can produce with the XT3) a 6Dmkii and two lenses; the 16-35 and 24-70. I'd been holding on to them, reticent to say the least to let them go, but I've just not been using them. Not at all.
great video as always ! ... a camera is a personal item,some suit others better than others. i own two fuji's,and used to own a canon,but the fuji stripped back way of operation suits me. wedding photography is hard because you only get one run at it,and have to capture the day for the clients and not just for yourself.
I totally agree, wedding photography is not as easy as it looks. You only have one chance to get it right! Such a pity there are so many small minded people out there prepared to say nasty things about wedding photographers. Every genre has its place, and we shouldn't knock something because it appears easy or is not a recognised art.
Neale we love your channel 😊, not sure how well you remember us (Lorna & Tony) we worked at AF when you were doing videos for Chris. Really happy we found your RUclips 👍, look forward to seeing more amazing work! All the best - Tony
As usual I am late to the party but I just had to tell you how much I love your work. You are such a great communicator, please, please, please keep doing what you are doing. Thanks.
Thanks, now i know i'd never be a proper wedding photographer. But then i'd never aspire to be one. Your right though. Weddings are about the story and emotions. Which is bloody hard when under pressure. Which is why it such a struggle to do it right. And yes i have seen professional work done worse then my broke friend amateur work.(at least i am an amateur in this field.) I've done 2 of them. Both for people with little money for a proper professional which i did at first advise. Technically the pictures were sound. However i'd struggle to recreate the atmosphere too. Fortunately not all genre's in photography are about storytelling. Some disciplines are focus more on technique, preperation speed. Those are more my cup of tea. And btw yours and my Fujifilm camera will enhance both of our capabilities. Unfortunately mine do need more enhancing then yours though.
Amazing work Neale, I love the images especially the b+w ones. I am particularly drawn to b+w and need to experiment more with my own editing. Hadn't heard of Facundo previously and will be checking out his site. Thank you for sharing your work and experiences, truly inspirational (as always)!
Thank you Alexandra, appreciate your feedback and I'm glad you like the new set... this is very much going to be the base for my 'talk to cam' pieces from 2019. Have a super new year!
Found your channel after listening to your podcast (which is great BTW!) and love this wedding film, reminded me of why shooting weddings is the best job I've ever had. PS. Thank your podcast cohort for MY switch to Fuji! Subbed... Nick
Cheers Jon... it was somewhat less humour this time. I'm intrigued to see how well the talking to camera vids will do. I need to make sure I get out and about too!!! Have a super Christmas.
Is that a U87 I see in your VO studio? No wonder your videos and podcasts sound sooo damn good. Love the way you shoot sound at a wedding and combine with the images and text to make a compelling photo story. Superb work Neale !
Ah MrPotts, you recognise the finer things in life... although this isn't the 87... it's a TLM103, still a very nice Neumann, but not quite the U87. Thanks for the kind comments though... I blame my lovely Universal Audio compressors etc! :-)
If any photograph is to be referred to as an art form then any image judged good or bad taken under any circumstance in any situation or context then it must qualify. If we are now saying weddings are not subject matter to be included in this criteria then surely all photographs are merely a visual means of recording a point in time. Therefore we have a contradiction.
No need to rush your videos they are excellent.I did half a dozen weddings which went ok, no disasters, nothing outstanding but it was not for me and anything but easy.I'm not soppy but i do feel a little uneasy/emotional at some photos such as those by Giles,Facundo and yourself.Took me a while to understand that i had just been slapped over the head by a powerful image.Have a great Xmas & NY.
Thanks for the comment. I know what you mean when looking at Giles' pictures in particular when it comes to emotion. His work whilst in the army took him to places, scenes and scenarios that are hard to imagine. I've always found him and his work to be authentic in terms of compassion and empathy. Not an easy thing to do when you're trying to be independent of your bosses' agenda. Have a super holidays season. Kindest, Neale
Thanks for the comment Dennis, appreciated. It's funny but I've never really felt the pressure per sae, although of course I feel a strong sense of responsibility. Thanks for dropping by.
if these are your xt3 pictures, awesome, is it me or my computer, but they have a 60's/70's look, very authentic decade look. Not sure if its your style or genre.
Thanks Juan. Intrigued by the look you feel they have. They certainly do have a different feeling to my post processing out of the Canon kit, that's true. I certainly have changed my approach to post since moving systems, and that would be unusual at all, although in terms of filming using the camera, it probably hasn't changed too much in the grade.
Heh. I discovered you and saw this quote on that video. Joke em if they can't take a f.... Best Regards! LATER: We're you using Velvia sim in the wedding montage?
Ahhh. well done, Neale! Very nice shots and the video you put together with the audio is an amazing representation of what the day must have been like. Voiceover work certainly suits you. Not only do you have the voice for it, but your communication skills are top notch! I hope you get some good work in that regard!
Very kind of you to comment and thanks for the thoughts on both the film and voice work. I don't know about you, but those grand statements folk make with resolutions, I'm not really one for them... h...o...w...e...v...e...r... if I were to make one, I think it would to make more personal films like this. It's fun reaching out, even when some of the comments you receive back are less than encouraging.
@@photowalk.podcast I say keep the videos going (as long as you have the means)! I'd reckon that people who make these statements haven't seriously shot weddings before. It's an event that challenges any photographer's skill. It's exciting because it incorporates a variety of different types of photography. It can be documentary, fashion, action, portraiture and even product photography all rolled into one. At the end of the day, it's storytelling and I think THAT is among the highest form of photography. Can't wait for the podcast!
i got mine fujifilm X-T3 and love it! So happy i did! still thinking at where to go to with my photography. im kind of shy. but can be very cordial in conversation. yes, life in photography and videography:)
I know a good deal of photographers I would say are shy Ronnie. Their photographs and work give them a platform and often voice they would otherwise not find in their day to day. Thanks for the comment.
Neale, a year later, any different thoughts of switching to X-Ts from the 5d4s? I still struggle to find the balance and not to be overtanke by GAS (having a7r3, 6d2). Greetings from Bulgaria.
Hi there. Yes I do have some thoughts... not too many, but I've had proper real time use now with Fujifilm as my only brand. Things I miss firstly... the dual pixel autofocus in filming, the seemingly easier edit when it comes to skin tones in raw and making brisker grab shots. Things I love about my swap; the plethora of video features (and AF is getting better), the incredible colours straight out of camera in jpeg, the weight which can not be underestimated, the EVF, the significant price advantages but most of all the feel of the cameras. Everything is on the top plate and aperture is selected via for the lens, and whilst many say the vintage nod thing is just a gimmick, I'd argue otherwise - it's become a way of working for me which I'd find hard to come away from.
Being involved in photography for about 30 years (jeez I'm old) as an amateur and in the last 10years now being paid (occasionally) I have always looked on event photographers with great admiration as I always new... I couldn't do it. As far as Fuji is concerned, I looked for long enough to move from full frame Nikon to APS-C to lighten the load and soon realised that Fuji APS-C was not the same as other camera brands APS-C systems. I tried the D500 with loaned Nikon DX lenses but still couldn't get the IQ of the D810 plus I didn't need the other benefits of the D500. Then I got a loan of the X-T2 and straight way the image quality was there with the right lenses 16-55mm & 50-140mm. Don't know why (not a techie) might be something to do with the fact it is not a Bayer type sensor and the extrans files had to be treated differently, there's always a trade off ( as you commented about canon colour). Im now using two XT2's and a XT20 so keep up the good work I'm learning from you and Mr Mullins.
Thanks Jim. Today funnily enough we launch (The Mullins and I) our new podcast called THE FUJICAST... available on your fav podcast platforms with sad exception of Google just at the moment. We'll be talking lots about the sensors in hopefully a non techie way. Thank you for your thoughtful comments and indeed the history of your journey. Sounds like there are a lot of similarities in the way we were both thinking Jim!
Thanks John, not quite sure why you mention the failure... is it the sub numbers? If it IS that, then I compare my 3.5K to some of my peers and I'm waaaaaaaaaaaay down. Thanks for the comment on the voice too. I'm starting up my voice over business again, so it's good to hear thoughts like this.
Neale James I’ve never had any commercial success with my photography,that’s my failure,I also tried VO for two years with no success,my own business failed, I am three times a failure at least.
@@johnimg I saw an interesting quote this morning which read: "You guys didn't come here to struggle and survive. You came here to create an impact. You can't do that while you're in fear about money." I don't obviously know your position John, and how commercial you needed any of this to be, or how that impacted on any decisions you made during that time. I know money decisions can make an enormous difference on how I perform. I'm not suggesting that by taking my foot off the gas, the so called 'universe' brings me more luck, but there is I am sure a correlation between when I'm TRYING to make something succeed and when I'm ENJOYING just doing and success seems to much more malleable. This made so much more sense when I started to write this John!
@@johnimg I think we're all striving for success... some people may seem further along the trail... but we're all goal setting. I have a good long way to go again in the voice world for instance! Hope we stay in touch.
I have to ask if you notice anything strange about the Fui look. I am perplexed by internet feedback regarding color and quality of skin tone. Your shots are wonderful but there is a strange feeling I get from the images that somehow look very unnatural in some (not all) circumstances. I spent some months testing the X T1 and briefly he X T2 and in good light they were great, but under many circumstances very strange things seem to happy to the look and feel of the files. I also found the depth of field often had a forced look, I would draw similarity to the new smart phone features, it often looks fake and over processed. (maybe a consequence of a smaller sensor?) I really want to love this system but untimely the end results just fall short for me. Do you have any regrets moving from full frame?
Hi Stuart, thanks for your considered thoughts, and I really mean that - as many folk would simply not be as constructive in their thoughts. So let me level and be utterly honest with you, and I do intend to make a film... oh so many films to make. I've been using the system full time for approaching a year, though I've been a Fujifilm camera owner and user since the original X100, so these are not new cameras to me, far from it. Do I think they're as good as my Canon cameras in super low light, no I don't. And I don't mean focus, or even the experience of using to grab stuff quickly as the XT3 is wildly good in that regard. And I agree, the colours from jpegs and even the raw files can be far harder to manage. I think the experience is akin to driving a very different kind of car to the one that does everything for you. However, I have been developing further presets for my editing and even though I'm happy with the shots here, the aim is that eventually I will end up with the kind of feeling I produced from DSLRs in terms of colour and so on. "But why not just stick with Canon or Nikon then Neale," I can hear you ask? And THAT is a very good question. The answer is experience. Funnily enough it's not totally the weight when using them, because when I used Canon I rarely used the expensive heavy L glass, preferring the cheaper 1.8 85 over the 1.2 version for instance. Weight certainly DOES play a part with my travels though. I've made several pro trips abroad since changing to Fuji and one long month trip to Australia, and the difference in travel weight and size convinced me of my decision. There's also the fact that I love to see what I am shooting and an EVF gives me that experience. So colour seems the only thing up for debate, as I'm not depth obsessed. Do I think the skin tones feel as good, no, I don't, but are they better than other DSLR systems I have used and from which have produced some of my favourite career pictures, yes they are. And do I enjoy using the system more? Yes I do. If I continually compare and contrast to a DSLR, I'm missing the point somewhat. One of the most (and this is VERY important) facets of owning and running the Fujifilm systems is that for wedding clients at least, I look less imposing. It's obvious I AM the photographer, but I calmly glide in and out of situations with these very unobtrusive cameras and that makes a difference to how much folk simply 'let me in' now. That is probably the ace card. And let's not forget, with every camera, with every improvement to the sensor, DR and so on, they're getting better and better. Woh what a long answer, but you caught me on a Sunday morning with a coffee in hand and soft music playing in the background. I also think you've just had me write the start of a script for a film.... :-)
@@photowalk.podcast Great reply, thank you!!! It puts some much needed perspective on my recent thinking. I am in a very experimental stage with my photography journey and trying lots out, from weddings to portraiture and street photography. I have unconsciously been made to feel somewhat ill equipped due to the opinions of "others" regarding gear. It seems in these times the brand you use somehow defines your ability? Very strange :) I have a fine camera that suits my needs well, its not perfect and has some compromises but ultimately has never let me down so far. I have been focusing on the negatives with my system where I should just acknowledge that I am so comfortable with the camera I am able to use it instinctively and with fluency. (The gear does not get in the way) Thanks fr your time and for offering some perspective! Cheers
Wedding photography has come a very long way in just a few years, from the style of 'standard' groups and setups, which maybe led to it's low image among other photographers, to the stylish and photo journalistic work of today. As is often the case, the stereotype remains long after change has occurred. As a former newspaper photographer, I know all about image and perception, so I feel your 'pain' as they say. I think many pro' photographers today are a little intimidated by the quality of work required to be a decent wedding photographer these days, and lets be honest, the money can be better than many working photographers earn in other fields. Photography today has become so 'democratised' that many of photographers maybe on RUclips, bloggers or other social media, seem to be held in higher regard than merely skilled or talented photographers. Has our view of skilled, worthy or talented become distorted by clicks, followers and views? Sometimes it feels to me that very fine photographers are the 'lowest form of photography' simply because they don't have those stats to elevate them. I think I've drifted off the subject....?!
That's a really interesting viewpoint Andrew, that some photographers may feel intimidated by what is required to photograph weddings well... it plays to the concept that if [we] feel uneasy or uncomfortable about something, then [we] are just as likely to find fault or negativity about that said something. It's easier than having to embrace it, or accept any new reality. Does that make sense. It's Christmas Day and I've had the breakfast Prosecco!
@@photowalk.podcast Breakfast prosecco, well well, merry Christmas indeed. I think the term 'wedding photographer' to some people recalls the 'old style' of dull line ups, family groups, set shots, whereas young couples today expect their wedding photography to be a cross over of fashion, lifestyle and photojournalism, a tough combo to pull off. So the reality today is wedding photography is far from the 'lowest form' of photography to accomplish successfully and just as importantly, consistently. But as you say (via prosecco?!), the title 'wedding photographer' is used as a put down, maybe as a defence to elevate other genres... or ability level? Does that make sense...? Only had an evening bottle of beer!
Muy bueno and good idea the voice over, it resulted in a beautiful story. What about the lad, is he back in Andalucia or does he stay in London? It's nice to see people going back and forth the Peninsula to the Island. I hope the Brexit sham doesn't spoil it all, we like Brits over here.
Well Mannie, I agree with you about the Brexit thing. I really hope it all works out in 2019. I am in that so called 'minority' that wanted us to stay. I think the 'sham' element as you call it is in many respects down to politicians, many of whom seem to me to be very self serving. Let's hope it all works out... I'm sure it will. The 'grown ups' at some stage will step in, I'm sure of that.
Mannie. Jeje Tabajaba en Almería antes de conocerme a mi esposa. Ya vivíamos en nuestro nativo Inglaterra. Neal ha sido un fotográfico de calidad y primera clase.
Thanks Josh, appreciate your comment. Yep, certainly intend to post more often in 2019! The podcast will be on the channel too, split in half probably, so it'll be on the other presenter's channel too.
Cray... I loved it! I'm probably going out again in Feb to finish a little more of the project... so I'll podcast about it then... in the meantime I do have a little bit of filming to show.
And I think that was a good thing. It meant that there were enough thoughts about the subject out there to talk about it, and to express to those in the genre, that it's a good thing to be involved in, and a form of photography to be proud of, not somehow hide in a darkened corner of the kit bag. Thanks for dropping by.
@@photowalk.podcast I agree on freedom of speech and thoughts but if you don't like a particular kind of photography there are other ways to express yourself, and maybe substantiate it a bit with the reason why.
As per KM's comments - both a poor understanding of art but more importantly a poor understanding of what it is to be human. Great images, even better story telling.
@@photowalk.podcast As per your documentary style - a video on capturing significant emotion would be awesome (that would be easy right :)). Obviously weddings and similar ceremonies have heightened emotions but so much of the good things I see in your work (and in Kevins) is in the background that give additional emotional context to the main focus. I'm not a professional and never will be so if there is any science to the process or whether it's just "magic" would be hugely interesting. No pressure even though I just subscribed :)
Great work, Neale. Wedding shooting is hard. It’s not going to be to everybody’s taste, but it’s a person with a poor understanding of any form of art that ignores the fact that wedding photography is just that. Art.
Well said, Kevin!
Wedding photography = documentary, macro, event, fashion, beauty, couple, group, boudoir (occasionally), crowd controller etc PLUS a spoonful of your own special sauce (style). I've shot three weddings (all friends) and it's tough, exhausting but extremely rewarding....perhaps you could ask "John Smith" where you could view his portfolio and absorb his next level knowledge....or maybe not....and yeah, EVERYONE who shoots Fuji is paid by the company to do so...except me. Damn :-/
I had a shot at a wedding once for friends....disaster! No doubt I'd learn from that experience were I ever to do it again but I'm incredibly respectful of what wedding photographers bring to the table in terms of skillset and the pressures they face to get great shots.
I have no idea how anyone can have the patience, deal with the ever changing light and surroundings, and possess the sheer stamina to do creative and professional wedding photography. I salute you, and all the other successful pros. I'll stick with the slower paced, less stressful, and (thankfully) child free life of corporate headshots. Anyone who thinks photographing weddings, where there's no chance of a second and third "let's do it again" shot, is easy, is not only an idiot but demonstrably ignorant of the highly charged working environment.
Hi Greg... there's a lot to be said for corp headshots... many is the time I've wanted to get into that business myself. I think it may be my maturing years that makes me feel more comfortable with conversing with life's big business 'dudes.' Appreciate you dropping by.
Awesome video. I shoot weddings myself with the Fuji system. I've always found it odd that everyone says wedding photography is the lowest form of photography. Actually, before I really heavily got into weddings, to practice for them I used street photography. The thing I find the same about them, and honestly probably photojournalism is that you have to anticipate the moment and be there and ready for it. When the moment happens, if you're not there on the shutter you missed it. That's the same with weddings. Thanks for sharing this and being another voice to get rid of this myth that weddings are the lesser "art" of photography.
Thanks John, it's a tricky old subject, because bad wedding photographers appear over and over in films, and it kind of feeds those voices of agitation, mostly who have no real world experience of shooting one. Funnily enough I feel the same way for the amazing wedding singers, many of whom you'd happily pay to go and watch. Their only 'crime' it would seem is that they have the prefix 'wedding' before the noun. I've learned to really appreciate those who do this very very well.
Well, if ever there was a video to show that Wedding Photography is not 'the lowest form of art', it would be this one! I myself am a keen street photographer and look upon wedding photography as a more formalised version of street photography, probably leaning more towards the documentary side of things. It definitely seems to have some crossover in terms of skillset for street photography though. Having said that, when I go out and shoot street, I have quite literally the rest of my life to find something amazing and whilst I like to think it doesn't usually take a lifetime for street photographers to get something worthy of note, I don't envy the time pressure wedding photographers are placed under to get great shots and record the day. Sterling work Neale.
Thank you Andrew, your comment and thoughts are much appreciated. Interestingly enough I know of a few wedding photographers who promote their style as 'street photographers at weddings.' For some folk the idea of taking that concept of work into a wedding works well for them, though you're right, there is a certain time pressure that you'll not often encounter on the street, unless of course you're working on a particular story that demands so.
Thank you Andrew for your really kind comment. Much appreciated.
Hi Neale, having shot a number of weddings I was most impressed with your beautiful and stunning images. Anyone who thinks wedding photography is the lowest form of photography has perhaps never shot a wedding or is not paying attention. This photofilm was brilliant and very moving. Great work indeed Neale.
Thanks Joseph. It's a thrill to receive a positive comment like this especially when the commenter is someone with real 'coalface' experience of the genre. All the best.
Happy Christmas Neale, my first thoughts were if you’re going to troll at least use your real name. It was then pointed out that I am too a John Smith so it may be his real name!
As an aspiring photographer I’d looked at weddings as a collection of group shots and a first dance, easy work. Until about 17 years ago when I was second photographer at a wedding. Wow! At the end of the day I was knackered. Eyes and ears are constantly on alert, it was stressful. I’ve covered about only 10 weddings in my own right and unless you’ve done it you really don’t appreciate the work that goes into shooting a wedding. When I look at your work and Mr. Mullins work it sends a shiver down my back, one of dread and awe. It’s tough work and rewarding work. Never judge until you’ve been in those shoes.
Great video piece and one that needed addressing. Have a great new year Neale.
Ooops. Well, hello the real John Smith! Thanks for your comments and if you don't mind I may use these in the new Fujifilm unofficial podcast because you raise such strong thoughts. Have a great new year too! 2019 is going to be a good year, I can feel it!
I’d be honoured. Just to clarify though I am not the troll JS! Lol
@@shurikenstars Oh yeh.... sorry, I know that! lol - there have to be more John Smiths in the world! :-)
I think I'm pretty decent but the thought of doing a wedding scares the hell out of me. Intense pressure, no reruns. You have to just live with whatever light you get on the day. You need to wrangle the clients and you need to be creative enough to make a set of images that captures someone's most important day. Yeah anyone can do that had my utmost respect for what that's worth.
Thanks Tony and I hope that in particular, the new breed of up and coming photographers read your thoughts, not to scare the life out of them, but to underline the standing the genre can have. Thanks for your time.
Wedding Photography is wonderful. These are the photographs that will still exist in families decades on. As for the xt3...... I'm now a proud owner.... 😀 going through a learning curve still.... but already have some incredible images in the bag. Super vid Neale... love the new studio. 😊
Thanks Steve. You know, I think you hit the nail on the head with 'learning curve.' I feel I'm still doing that to an extent. A 'lifetime' using the 5D means there is bound to be a period of that. Like you, loving it.
Wedding photography is a fantastic service. Those are some of the most important photos that will ever be taken of those people. They will be referenced for generations afterwards by that family. It may not be posh and artsy but it is genuine and important.
Bravo and ditto your thoughts. I'm going to make a film about those that kind of well, hide behind the fact they shoot weddings... to be fair it took me a while to come to terms with being labelled a 'wedding photographer,' and even though I do many other things, the weddings pay for my family, the mortgage, the bills and so on... so it's very much an important part of my life. I think the pressure laid on by other genres is part of the problem to those who work in our industry sometimes.
Lowest form of photography, I think not Neale. Your photofilm transcends conventional wedding photography and has become art and I for one am inspired.
Thanks Joseph. I hope the sound USP works in my favour when mixed with stills for sure. Interestingly Fujifilm introduced a new Instax camera this week that... wait for it... records sound at the moment you press the shutter button. Interesting concept.
This is great work. Photos like these is what makes this our profession the best in the world. It's more about the story and the art than the camera and I've decided, with the help of a couple of your photos to jump to Fuji from Canon when I'm able to. The XT3's image quality and nostalgic design just fits with me, although I'm sure it may be a bit of a process to switch to mirrorless from Canon to Fuji. Thanks man.
Thanks Falando and yes it does take a little time to get used to, surprisingly not too long though, even when you've been shooting Canon for well over a decade and Nikon before that (that's me in a nutshell). My last items of Canon leave these shores on Thursday; a C100 cinema camera (which in terms of quality is well below that that I can produce with the XT3) a 6Dmkii and two lenses; the 16-35 and 24-70. I'd been holding on to them, reticent to say the least to let them go, but I've just not been using them. Not at all.
great video as always ! ... a camera is a personal item,some suit others better than others.
i own two fuji's,and used to own a canon,but the fuji stripped back way of operation suits me.
wedding photography is hard because you only get one run at it,and have to capture the day for
the clients and not just for yourself.
Thanks for your comment Carl, and you're right about the one chance thing!
I totally agree, wedding photography is not as easy as it looks. You only have one chance to get it right! Such a pity there are so many small minded people out there prepared to say nasty things about wedding photographers. Every genre has its place, and we shouldn't knock something because it appears easy or is not a recognised art.
We read from the same hymn book on that one Barry.
That photofilm is superb. What a great way to reminisce ones wedding
I like to think so. Thank you.
Neale we love your channel 😊, not sure how well you remember us (Lorna & Tony) we worked at AF when you were doing videos for Chris. Really happy we found your RUclips 👍, look forward to seeing more amazing work! All the best - Tony
It's taken me a while to answer this!!!!!! But good to hear from you.
As usual I am late to the party but I just had to tell you how much I love your work. You are such a great communicator, please, please, please keep doing what you are doing. Thanks.
Thank you Gerald. Very kind of you to leave such a kind comment. I'll keep doing it, I just need to get more prolific. Promise some more to come soon.
Thanks, now i know i'd never be a proper wedding photographer.
But then i'd never aspire to be one.
Your right though. Weddings are about the story and emotions.
Which is bloody hard when under pressure. Which is why it such a struggle to do it right.
And yes i have seen professional work done worse then my broke friend amateur work.(at least i am an amateur in this field.)
I've done 2 of them. Both for people with little money for a proper professional which i did at first advise.
Technically the pictures were sound. However i'd struggle to recreate the atmosphere too.
Fortunately not all genre's in photography are about storytelling.
Some disciplines are focus more on technique, preperation speed.
Those are more my cup of tea. And btw yours and my Fujifilm camera will enhance both of our capabilities.
Unfortunately mine do need more enhancing then yours though.
Thanks for the detailed account of how your work. Of course story has to present itself and sometimes that story is harder to find.
Amazing work Neale, I love the images especially the b+w ones. I am particularly drawn to b+w and need to experiment more with my own editing. Hadn't heard of Facundo previously and will be checking out his site. Thank you for sharing your work and experiences, truly inspirational (as always)!
Thank you Martin. And yes check out Facundo, he has some excellent examples of story telling either side of 'the action.'
Nice comeback Neale and loving the new set up for your video, it’s very you. Really enjoyed the video and Happy New Year 😊
Thank you Alexandra, appreciate your feedback and I'm glad you like the new set... this is very much going to be the base for my 'talk to cam' pieces from 2019. Have a super new year!
Found your channel after listening to your podcast (which is great BTW!) and love this wedding film, reminded me of why shooting weddings is the best job I've ever had. PS. Thank your podcast cohort for MY switch to Fuji! Subbed... Nick
I will certainly let Kevin know! Seems like we both travelled that road Nick!
Well done Neale.. Thank you for sharing this video.. Awesome... Greetings from Indonesia..
Thanks for the comment. And greetings to you in Indonesia too!
Outstanding as always Neale. Many thanks for combining creative inspiration and a good sense of humour
Cheers Jon... it was somewhat less humour this time. I'm intrigued to see how well the talking to camera vids will do. I need to make sure I get out and about too!!! Have a super Christmas.
Your videos are fantastic and you deserve boat loads of subscribers. Thanks for this one.
It's taken me a while to respond, sorry for that - though thank you for your kind words. I'll hopefully keep building, albeit slowly.
Is that a U87 I see in your VO studio? No wonder your videos and podcasts sound sooo damn good. Love the way you shoot sound at a wedding and combine with the images and text to make a compelling photo story. Superb work Neale !
Ah MrPotts, you recognise the finer things in life... although this isn't the 87... it's a TLM103, still a very nice Neumann, but not quite the U87. Thanks for the kind comments though... I blame my lovely Universal Audio compressors etc! :-)
If any photograph is to be referred to as an art form then any image judged good or bad taken under any circumstance in any situation or context then it must qualify. If we are now saying weddings are not subject matter to be included in this criteria then surely
all photographs are merely a visual means of recording a point in time. Therefore we have a contradiction.
I think I'm with you here Steve. Wedding pictures certainly make for a subject that invites much debate.
No need to rush your videos they are excellent.I did half a dozen weddings which went ok, no disasters, nothing outstanding but it was not for me and anything but easy.I'm not soppy but i do feel a little uneasy/emotional at some photos such as those by Giles,Facundo and yourself.Took me a while to understand that i had just been slapped over the head by a powerful image.Have a great Xmas & NY.
Thanks for the comment. I know what you mean when looking at Giles' pictures in particular when it comes to emotion. His work whilst in the army took him to places, scenes and scenarios that are hard to imagine. I've always found him and his work to be authentic in terms of compassion and empathy. Not an easy thing to do when you're trying to be independent of your bosses' agenda. Have a super holidays season. Kindest, Neale
Love your videos Neale, just found your channel and really enjoying looking through your videos. Keep it up lad
That I will! Thanks for dropping by. Kindest, Neale
Most pleasant voice. Love your channel. Honest and genuine.
Thank you John. Kind of you.
yes, current fashion day to day. And the Lead of Fashion in Weddings all over the world
Thank you Ronnie for your comment.
the audio, great idea. pics did a great job of the day.
Thanks David. Sound is certainly not just for those video chaps at weddings. It can be a powerful tool in our box of tricks too!
I'm not into wedding photography, but I respect the hell out of it. A lot of pressure on a very important day in people's life's.
Thanks for the comment Dennis, appreciated. It's funny but I've never really felt the pressure per sae, although of course I feel a strong sense of responsibility. Thanks for dropping by.
if these are your xt3 pictures, awesome, is it me or my computer, but they have a 60's/70's look, very authentic decade look. Not sure if its your style or genre.
Thanks Juan. Intrigued by the look you feel they have. They certainly do have a different feeling to my post processing out of the Canon kit, that's true. I certainly have changed my approach to post since moving systems, and that would be unusual at all, although in terms of filming using the camera, it probably hasn't changed too much in the grade.
Heh. I discovered you and saw this quote on that video. Joke em if they can't take a f.... Best Regards! LATER: We're you using Velvia sim in the wedding montage?
Nope. I tend to use standard.
Ahhh. well done, Neale! Very nice shots and the video you put together with the audio is an amazing representation of what the day must have been like. Voiceover work certainly suits you. Not only do you have the voice for it, but your communication skills are top notch! I hope you get some good work in that regard!
Very kind of you to comment and thanks for the thoughts on both the film and voice work. I don't know about you, but those grand statements folk make with resolutions, I'm not really one for them... h...o...w...e...v...e...r... if I were to make one, I think it would to make more personal films like this. It's fun reaching out, even when some of the comments you receive back are less than encouraging.
@@photowalk.podcast I say keep the videos going (as long as you have the means)! I'd reckon that people who make these statements haven't seriously shot weddings before. It's an event that challenges any photographer's skill. It's exciting because it incorporates a variety of different types of photography. It can be documentary, fashion, action, portraiture and even product photography all rolled into one. At the end of the day, it's storytelling and I think THAT is among the highest form of photography. Can't wait for the podcast!
@@KentuckyMan30 Cheers for that @KentuckyMan30 - much appreciated
I think it may be perceived by some to be a lower form of photography in part due to the fact that it seems to have fewer barriers to entry.
Great video, btw.
Hmmm, maybe, yes maybe.
i got mine fujifilm X-T3 and love it! So happy i did! still thinking at where to go to with my photography. im kind of shy. but can be very cordial in conversation. yes, life in photography and videography:)
I know a good deal of photographers I would say are shy Ronnie. Their photographs and work give them a platform and often voice they would otherwise not find in their day to day. Thanks for the comment.
Neale, a year later, any different thoughts of switching to X-Ts from the 5d4s? I still struggle to find the balance and not to be overtanke by GAS (having a7r3, 6d2). Greetings from Bulgaria.
Hi there. Yes I do have some thoughts... not too many, but I've had proper real time use now with Fujifilm as my only brand. Things I miss firstly... the dual pixel autofocus in filming, the seemingly easier edit when it comes to skin tones in raw and making brisker grab shots. Things I love about my swap; the plethora of video features (and AF is getting better), the incredible colours straight out of camera in jpeg, the weight which can not be underestimated, the EVF, the significant price advantages but most of all the feel of the cameras. Everything is on the top plate and aperture is selected via for the lens, and whilst many say the vintage nod thing is just a gimmick, I'd argue otherwise - it's become a way of working for me which I'd find hard to come away from.
Being involved in photography for about 30 years (jeez I'm old) as an amateur and in the last 10years now being paid (occasionally) I have always looked on event photographers with great admiration as I always new... I couldn't do it. As far as Fuji is concerned, I looked for long enough to move from full frame Nikon to APS-C to lighten the load and soon realised that Fuji APS-C was not the same as other camera brands APS-C systems. I tried the D500 with loaned Nikon DX lenses but still couldn't get the IQ of the D810 plus I didn't need the other benefits of the D500. Then I got a loan of the X-T2 and straight way the image quality was there with the right lenses 16-55mm & 50-140mm. Don't know why (not a techie) might be something to do with the fact it is not a Bayer type sensor and the extrans files had to be treated differently, there's always a trade off ( as you commented about canon colour). Im now using two XT2's and a XT20 so keep up the good work I'm learning from you and Mr Mullins.
Thanks Jim. Today funnily enough we launch (The Mullins and I) our new podcast called THE FUJICAST... available on your fav podcast platforms with sad exception of Google just at the moment. We'll be talking lots about the sensors in hopefully a non techie way. Thank you for your thoughtful comments and indeed the history of your journey. Sounds like there are a lot of similarities in the way we were both thinking Jim!
@@photowalk.podcast You know what they say great minds! Looking forward to your podcast with Kevin ;-)
True talent ,really great photo stories,and stunning voice, more power to you from a true failure.
Thanks John, not quite sure why you mention the failure... is it the sub numbers? If it IS that, then I compare my 3.5K to some of my peers and I'm waaaaaaaaaaaay down. Thanks for the comment on the voice too. I'm starting up my voice over business again, so it's good to hear thoughts like this.
Neale James I’ve never had any commercial success with my photography,that’s my failure,I also tried VO for two years with no success,my own business failed, I am three times a failure at least.
@@johnimg I saw an interesting quote this morning which read: "You guys didn't come here to struggle and survive. You came here to create an impact. You can't do that while you're in fear about money." I don't obviously know your position John, and how commercial you needed any of this to be, or how that impacted on any decisions you made during that time. I know money decisions can make an enormous difference on how I perform. I'm not suggesting that by taking my foot off the gas, the so called 'universe' brings me more luck, but there is I am sure a correlation between when I'm TRYING to make something succeed and when I'm ENJOYING just doing and success seems to much more malleable. This made so much more sense when I started to write this John!
Neale James Thanks for the concern,enjoy your success.
@@johnimg I think we're all striving for success... some people may seem further along the trail... but we're all goal setting. I have a good long way to go again in the voice world for instance! Hope we stay in touch.
I have to ask if you notice anything strange about the Fui look. I am perplexed by internet feedback regarding color and quality of skin tone.
Your shots are wonderful but there is a strange feeling I get from the images that somehow look very unnatural in some (not all) circumstances. I spent some months testing the X T1 and briefly he X T2 and in good light they were great, but under many circumstances very strange things seem to happy to the look and feel of the files.
I also found the depth of field often had a forced look, I would draw similarity to the new smart phone features, it often looks fake and over processed. (maybe a consequence of a smaller sensor?)
I really want to love this system but untimely the end results just fall short for me. Do you have any regrets moving from full frame?
Hi Stuart, thanks for your considered thoughts, and I really mean that - as many folk would simply not be as constructive in their thoughts. So let me level and be utterly honest with you, and I do intend to make a film... oh so many films to make. I've been using the system full time for approaching a year, though I've been a Fujifilm camera owner and user since the original X100, so these are not new cameras to me, far from it.
Do I think they're as good as my Canon cameras in super low light, no I don't. And I don't mean focus, or even the experience of using to grab stuff quickly as the XT3 is wildly good in that regard. And I agree, the colours from jpegs and even the raw files can be far harder to manage.
I think the experience is akin to driving a very different kind of car to the one that does everything for you. However, I have been developing further presets for my editing and even though I'm happy with the shots here, the aim is that eventually I will end up with the kind of feeling I produced from DSLRs in terms of colour and so on.
"But why not just stick with Canon or Nikon then Neale," I can hear you ask? And THAT is a very good question. The answer is experience. Funnily enough it's not totally the weight when using them, because when I used Canon I rarely used the expensive heavy L glass, preferring the cheaper 1.8 85 over the 1.2 version for instance. Weight certainly DOES play a part with my travels though. I've made several pro trips abroad since changing to Fuji and one long month trip to Australia, and the difference in travel weight and size convinced me of my decision.
There's also the fact that I love to see what I am shooting and an EVF gives me that experience. So colour seems the only thing up for debate, as I'm not depth obsessed. Do I think the skin tones feel as good, no, I don't, but are they better than other DSLR systems I have used and from which have produced some of my favourite career pictures, yes they are. And do I enjoy using the system more? Yes I do.
If I continually compare and contrast to a DSLR, I'm missing the point somewhat. One of the most (and this is VERY important) facets of owning and running the Fujifilm systems is that for wedding clients at least, I look less imposing. It's obvious I AM the photographer, but I calmly glide in and out of situations with these very unobtrusive cameras and that makes a difference to how much folk simply 'let me in' now. That is probably the ace card. And let's not forget, with every camera, with every improvement to the sensor, DR and so on, they're getting better and better. Woh what a long answer, but you caught me on a Sunday morning with a coffee in hand and soft music playing in the background. I also think you've just had me write the start of a script for a film.... :-)
@@photowalk.podcast Great reply, thank you!!!
It puts some much needed perspective on my recent thinking. I am in a very experimental stage with my photography journey and trying lots out, from weddings to portraiture and street photography. I have unconsciously been made to feel somewhat ill equipped due to the opinions of "others" regarding gear.
It seems in these times the brand you use somehow defines your ability? Very strange :)
I have a fine camera that suits my needs well, its not perfect and has some compromises but ultimately has never let me down so far. I have been focusing on the negatives with my system where I should just acknowledge that I am so comfortable with the camera I am able to use it instinctively and with fluency. (The gear does not get in the way)
Thanks fr your time and for offering some perspective!
Cheers
Wedding photography has come a very long way in just a few years, from the style of 'standard' groups and setups, which maybe led to it's low image among other photographers, to the stylish and photo journalistic work of today.
As is often the case, the stereotype remains long after change has occurred.
As a former newspaper photographer, I know all about image and perception, so I feel your 'pain' as they say.
I think many pro' photographers today are a little intimidated by the quality of work required to be a decent wedding photographer these days, and lets be honest, the money can be better than many working photographers earn in other fields.
Photography today has become so 'democratised' that many of photographers maybe on RUclips, bloggers or other social media, seem to be held in higher regard than merely skilled or talented photographers.
Has our view of skilled, worthy or talented become distorted by clicks, followers and views? Sometimes it feels to me that very fine photographers are the 'lowest form of photography' simply because they don't have those stats to elevate them.
I think I've drifted off the subject....?!
That's a really interesting viewpoint Andrew, that some photographers may feel intimidated by what is required to photograph weddings well... it plays to the concept that if [we] feel uneasy or uncomfortable about something, then [we] are just as likely to find fault or negativity about that said something. It's easier than having to embrace it, or accept any new reality. Does that make sense. It's Christmas Day and I've had the breakfast Prosecco!
@@photowalk.podcast Breakfast prosecco, well well, merry Christmas indeed.
I think the term 'wedding photographer' to some people recalls the 'old style' of dull line ups, family groups, set shots, whereas young couples today expect their wedding photography to be a cross over of fashion, lifestyle and photojournalism, a tough combo to pull off. So the reality today is wedding photography is far from the 'lowest form' of photography to accomplish successfully and just as importantly, consistently.
But as you say (via prosecco?!), the title 'wedding photographer' is used as a put down, maybe as a defence to elevate other genres... or ability level?
Does that make sense...? Only had an evening bottle of beer!
Muy bueno and good idea the voice over, it resulted in a beautiful story. What about the lad, is he back in Andalucia or does he stay in London? It's nice to see people going back and forth the Peninsula to the Island. I hope the Brexit sham doesn't spoil it all, we like Brits over here.
Well Mannie, I agree with you about the Brexit thing. I really hope it all works out in 2019. I am in that so called 'minority' that wanted us to stay. I think the 'sham' element as you call it is in many respects down to politicians, many of whom seem to me to be very self serving. Let's hope it all works out... I'm sure it will. The 'grown ups' at some stage will step in, I'm sure of that.
Mannie. Jeje Tabajaba en Almería antes de conocerme a mi esposa. Ya vivíamos en nuestro nativo Inglaterra. Neal ha sido un fotográfico de calidad y primera clase.
Well Mannie, Ian seems to have answered your question I guess.... he says, reaching for the Spanish to English phrase book!
Amen Neale!
Cheers Albert, of all people, you know how powerful this medium can be, particularly with the strength of your own work.
beautiful 😍
Thank you, much appreciated.
First :D Great video! Do it more often :)
Thanks Josh, appreciate your comment. Yep, certainly intend to post more often in 2019! The podcast will be on the channel too, split in half probably, so it'll be on the other presenter's channel too.
podcast. what was your experience in Gambia like
Cray... I loved it! I'm probably going out again in Feb to finish a little more of the project... so I'll podcast about it then... in the meantime I do have a little bit of filming to show.
1:25 - Worst thing is, he got 17 thumbs up !!
And I think that was a good thing. It meant that there were enough thoughts about the subject out there to talk about it, and to express to those in the genre, that it's a good thing to be involved in, and a form of photography to be proud of, not somehow hide in a darkened corner of the kit bag. Thanks for dropping by.
@@photowalk.podcast I agree on freedom of speech and thoughts but if you don't like a particular kind of photography there are other ways to express yourself, and maybe substantiate it a bit with the reason why.
As per KM's comments - both a poor understanding of art but more importantly a poor understanding of what it is to be human. Great images, even better story telling.
Thanks Greg. I must do some more stuff on the art of shooting weddings, so much to say about it!
@@photowalk.podcast As per your documentary style - a video on capturing significant emotion would be awesome (that would be easy right :)). Obviously weddings and similar ceremonies have heightened emotions but so much of the good things I see in your work (and in Kevins) is in the background that give additional emotional context to the main focus. I'm not a professional and never will be so if there is any science to the process or whether it's just "magic" would be hugely interesting. No pressure even though I just subscribed :)
@@gregstevenson7401 Woh, now that is a request. A good idea... and I think I have a little concept bubbling for one like that.