There are primarily two types of wedding photographers: traditional and photojournalistic. Traditional wedding photographers usually operate portrait studios, where their work is split between portraiture (seniors, families, babies) and weddings. They are extensively trained in posing and lighting techniques and tend to approach a wedding as a series of portrait opportunities.

These photographers often serve as director/producer, guiding you through posed shots at various points during your day. The results, when done well, are classical pictures with dramatic lighting.

If you prefer primarily posed shots, you'll want to choose a traditional photographer. If, however, you are interested in more spontaneous pictures that capture the genuine emotion of your wedding - and if you are comfortable giving your photographer freedom to break from the typical "wedding photo list" in order to achieve this - then the photojournalistic approach may be more your style.

Many photojournalistic wedding photographers got their start working for newspapers and magazines, where posing or staging is often not possible, e.g., in sports or news coverage. Unable to direct their subjects but required to bring back compelling pictures from each assignment, photojournalists have to be careful observers, paying close attention to the moments and details that tell the story.

I have been a photojournalist since 1988; my first ten years as a professional were spent working for major daily newspapers. Since going freelance in 1998 I have worked in Maine for magazines from all over the country. (Please visit the contacts page of my web site to see where my work has appeared.)

In my editorial (newspaper and magazine) career, my strong suit has always been people and event coverage. This carries over to wedding photography, where my strength is spontaneous, story-telling coverage.

I understand how important your wedding day is to you - not only are you making a public profession of your commitment to each other, but you have also gathered your families and dearest friends to witness your vows and celebrate the day with you. There are so many wonderful things taking place and my goal is to unobtrusively capture all these delightful moments - planned and unplanned - and to preserve them in pictures you can enjoy for the rest of your lives.

And, even though I'm a photojournalist, I encourage you to plan some posed shots if you want them. Most couples want at least a few portraits (of the couple, family members, the wedding party, etc.) as part of their personal history. Of course, that doesn't mean these shots have to look stilted or that they can't be fun. Together, we'll determine a style that suits you best.

With a photojournalist documenting your wedding, the result will be a lively, candid and up-close chronicle of this incredibly important day in your lives.