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Ditching 'Perfect': Why We Are Craving Authentic, Real Photography in an AI World
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With the rise of AI and perfectly curated feeds, we are all craving something real. No awkward posing, no flawless filters—just the beautiful, messy reality of your actual life, captured on camera.
I saw a news article recently that completely validated everything I’ve been feeling about photography lately, and I just had to talk about it.
If you spend any time scrolling on social media these days, you’ve probably noticed it too. We are absolutely flooded with flawlessly polished, highly-curated, and even AI-generated images. Everything looks so... perfect. But honestly? I think we are all getting a little bit tired of perfect.
I’ve noticed a massive shift recently. People are craving something real again. We want honest, authentic moments with a bit of soul, character, and texture to them. We don't want memories that look like a plastic computer generated them; we want photos that instantly transport us back to exactly how a moment felt.
Why 'Real' Always Wins
This realization is exactly why I’ve been leaning so heavily into my documentary style of shooting. When you look back at your wedding photos, or pictures of your family, the ones that make you cry or laugh out loud are rarely the ones where everyone is standing perfectly straight and staring rigidly into the lens.
The magic is in the in-between moments:
The unfiltered, split-second reaction during a gender reveal.
The chaotic, joyful mess of the morning prep on your wedding day.
A quiet, stolen glance between you and your partner when you think nobody is watching.
My Secret Weapon: The Fujifilm X100VI
To capture these authentic moments, I’ve been bringing my Fujifilm X100VI camera to my sessions alongside my main Sony setup. If you aren't a camera nerd, you might wonder why that matters!
Here is the secret: massive, traditional professional cameras with huge lenses can sometimes feel a bit intimidating. When a big lens is pointed at you, it’s human nature to freeze up and put on a "camera smile."
The Fuji, on the other hand, is compact and has a gorgeous, retro, vintage film look. It completely drops the barrier. It allows me to blend right into the background like a guest or a friend. People relax around it, which means I get to capture the real you. Plus, the built-in film styling gives the images that nostalgic, timeless, cinematic vibe that perfectly matches a raw, documentary approach.
Let's Ditch the Awkward Posing
My whole ethos as a photographer is that your photoshoot—whether it's a wedding, a couples shoot, or a family session—should never feel like a stiff, awkward chore. It should feel like going for a walk, having a laugh, and just hanging out.
I am there to document your ordinary life and your biggest milestones exactly as they happen, with all the genuine human connection and emotion left fully intact.
If you are wanting some genuine, unposed memories captured this year, my diary is open and the Fuji is fully charged! Drop me a message, and let’s plan something brilliant together.
