Being a documentary wedding photographer is a job that I take great pride in. My camera is my paintbrush and the beautiful moments of a wedding day are my canvas. But I must confess, I have a soft spot for small, intimate weddings. Why, you may ask? Well, let me take you on a journey of a typical small wedding day from my perspective.

One of the first things that strike me about small weddings is that my clients tend to be more laid back. Perhaps it's because the guest list is more refined, or maybe it’s the absence of overwhelming pomp and pageantry. Whatever the reason, these couples let me do my thing. They trust in my expertise and style, giving me the freedom to capture their special day in the most authentic way possible.

This trust also translates into a less stressful environment. Large weddings, with their strict timelines and vast guest lists, can often feel like a high-pressure photo shoot. However, small weddings are different. The timelines are more relaxed, giving me the opportunity to take in the day, to absorb the atmosphere, to hunt for those perfect, candid shots. There’s a rhythm to the day that’s less rushed, less frantic. But don’t mistake relaxed for unorganized. These weddings are usually meticulously planned, just without the time pressure. It’s the perfect balance that allows everyone to enjoy the day without feeling rushed or late.

But perhaps my favorite aspect of shooting small weddings is the sense of togetherness and intimacy. As the guest list is often limited to close friends and family, I become more than just the 'wedding photographer'. I get to be part of the celebration, interacting with the couple's closest loved ones. This closeness allows me to blend in, making the guests feel comfortable and more importantly, be themselves.

And that’s when the magic happens. People forget about the camera and let their guard down. The laughter becomes heartier, the tears more poignant, the embraces tighter. In these moments, I get to capture the raw, unfiltered emotions – the essence of the couple's special day.

In conclusion, small weddings are a joy to photograph. They allow me to do what I love most - documenting precious, authentic moments. And that, my friends, is why I love to shoot small weddings.