What are the official church rules on photography during the wedding ceremony?
We are having an issue where the vicar will not allow photographs at all in the church. We feel quite strongly about being able to have these memories of our day to share with not only our future children and grandchildren, but those loved ones who can not attend (due to illness or distance).
We have a wonderful photographer who is ready and willing to work with the church in order to ensure that he does not get in the way of any of the proceedings.
In short, we really want to know what the exact position (rules or advice) that the church gives their clergy so that we know where we stand. Our research only tells us that churches all have their own 'rules'. Are these guided by anything (delicacy of paintings etc?) or are these left to the discretion of the vicar?
Your help would be much appreciated
Comments
Everyone wants to keep memories of their wedding day in the form of photographs and if that is disallowed then its like being robbed of something that you would like to cherish a for a long time to come.
I think you have written very beautifully about wanting to consult with the Church before taking photographs.
Brande,
Dear Happy bride
This is a tricky one. There are no official rules.
The thing is that most of us will work with photographers as long as we meet them at the rehearsal and agree what is acceptable. The Marriage service is an act of worship and that is usually the reason for reticence - though if you ask the Vicar he may well agree to mock up shots afterwards.
He may have had bad experiences with intrusive photographers who used flash and disrupted the service. Some amateurs can be a real pain and I've heard horror stories of people wanting to lie on the floor underneath as the couple exchange rings!! - but professionals are usually sensitive and sensible.
The one thing I have heard is that musicians can charge double fees if the service is videotaped/recorded.The rest is negotiation. See if you can get an explanation as a starting place.
Hope you do end up being a happy bride!
jan
Jan Harney (Rev'd)
http://www.asineden.co.uk