Wedding photographers have long contended with intrusive hobbyists known as "Uncle Bobs" who interfere with shoots, give unsolicited directions, and sometimes touch gear. These guests could step into aisles or altar spaces, creating persistent challenges, though their presence is decreasing. A new phenomenon has emerged: wedding content creators who capture the day for social media. Content creators often use smartphones, mirrorless cameras, lav mics, and planned shot lists, and they can appear in professional images while expecting edits like "Photoshop me out later." Content creators may be friends, hired professionals, or influencers, and they are likely to remain a permanent part of wedding coverage.
If you have photographed weddings for any amount of time, you know the type. The infamous "Uncle Bob" is the hobbyist, or sometimes former pro, who cannot resist inserting themselves into your work. Armed with a DSLR and a misplaced sense of authority, they will tell you how to shoot, where to stand, and, in some truly bold cases, physically touch you or your gear to "fix" your form. It is the uninvited workshop you never asked for.
For years, this was one of the biggest frustrations for wedding photographers. Some Uncle Bobs stayed politely in their lane, but many saw no issue stepping into the aisle mid-processional or planting themselves at the altar during portraits. Their persistence was legendary. And while Uncle Bobs still exist, their numbers are dwindling. You might think that is cause for celebration. Unfortunately, something else has stepped in to take their place.
These days, it is not Uncle Bob you are most likely to encounter. It is the wedding day content creator. Unlike the camera-wielding Uncle Bobs of old, these folks come with their own set of tools: smartphones, mirrorless cameras, lav mics, and sometimes even a full-day shot list. They may be friends of the couple, hired professionals, or influencers documenting the day for social media content. And unlike Uncle Bob, they are not fading out anytime soon.
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