As we approach wedding season, it is interesting to look back at how the images of
these events were initially taken. Wedding photography began in the early 1840’s when the
joining of two people in matrimony was, as it still is, a special memory family wanted to keep.
Even though photography was not a commercial endeavour at the time and the equipment was
quite limited, a staged studio image was taken for more than a century.
The equipment in the 1800’s made use of a process utilizing an iodine-sensitized silvered plate
and mercury vapour. There were no multiple photographs as the plate required a long exposure
time, in some cases this could take several minutes. This necessitated the couple remaining
perfectly still throughout the process, making for formal, rigid and unnatural poses and facial
expressions. In addition the studio photographers would use a range of props and backdrops to
enhance the visual appeal, which would also reflect the couple’s social standing. The resulting
images were grey scale and over time became sepia tinted, until new techniques aided
improved stability.

In the 1860’s albumen prints were set in 4.25 x 6.5 inch cabinet cards mounted on stiff card
backing ensuring better durability and ease of display.
It was not until the 20 th century that colour photographs were possible, but unreliable as the
colours shifted and faded after a short period. Images were still in black and white until after
WWII, when new materials and technology were produced. Photographers during the ‘wedding
boom’ post WWII did not have contracts as is the practice today. They would literally turn up
with a portable roll film based camera and take photos in the hope they could sell them to the
bride and groom.
Modern weddings are lavish affairs  with professional photographers and videographers to
capture every moment of the event. The resulting images are a special memory and can be set
in personalised frames, or even made into a canvas print.
Our expert framer designers can help you memorialize your special day.

Wedding photos courtesy of Rocco Macri Photographers

More info on Rocco Macri