The Knot

I just finished getting my images together for advertising with The Knot. Wow, it is really hard to pick ten of my favorite images from everything that I shot this year. It is really interesting though because the ones that were sure things a few weddings ago, no longer make the final edit. There are still a lot that hit the cutting room floor though and that is one of the hardest parts of the whole experience. One thing for sure is that the web site is long overdue for a facelift and some new categories.

The other difficult thing is what do you say for the product description that doesn’t sound canned or like a million others. I did a lot of research reading what everyone else had and I noticed a few redundant approaches. Most are written like it is someone else talking about the photographer. Like Frank did this, and Frank did that, and then Frank did this. Another recurring theme is when people have won awards. That is all they talk about, like national award winner, internationally acclaimed photographer, or award winner. I have won a lot of huge awards that I am very proud of but I was thinking if someone wanted to know that then they could read my biography section.

Then there are the key words like unobtrusive, photojournalistic, artistic, non-traditional, naturally, sought after, you know what I mean, you have read them a thousand times. Again, I was thinking why do I have to say all that stuff? Shouldn’t the images do that kind of talking for me?

So after a lot of consideration, I decided that I would approach it a little differently and talk to the bride myself. I want her to know what kind of person I am, me, the real me. Not the award winner, or the so and so graduate, or how stealthy I can be. No window dressing, just me. So I hope it turns out to be a good move. Either way, I am happy with the decision because I want my weddings to be intimate events, and I am concerned about tomorrow too, not just today. Our relationship doesn’t have to end when you get your album. Instead, it should continue on so I am photographing your children when you have them, and all of the other special events in your life.

I hope I haven’t offended any photographers that use any of the above text in their product description. That wasn’t my intention, and thanks all of you for putting yourselves out there so that others like myself can learn from it.

So after all that, again I’m sorry to be so long winded in these posts but I try to be concise. I will understand if you only look at the pictures though :) this is what I wrote and here are the top ten images (for the next five minutes, anyway).
“It is an honor when a bride decides to have me photograph such a monumental day in her life. Putting her trust in me forms a bond from that moment on, and continues long after the wedding. We will laugh together, cry together, and create memories that you will treasure forever together. My images are much more than pretty pictures of people. They capture fleeting moments, pieces of life, and are filled with emotion. Most importantly, I promise to exceed your expectations.”

Comments

[Garrett Nudd]

Frank, your approach will serve you well. Really nice images! Much continued success to you.

[Brady]

I love your modesty Frank, I think all of you brides will take that away from your text and have greater respect for you because of it.

The image of the couple in the well lit hall is great!

[Chris]

Hey Frank.

Your intro for your brides hits just right. The shots you have chosen and displayed here are incredible, and will speak VOLUMES to them as well. That first photograph is amazing, and without sounding trite, should be an award winner

Looking forward to seeing you sometime this year hopefully bud. Take care, and god bless.

Chris.