Wedding Day Warning Signs: Photographers Spot Clues to Impending Divorce
NEW YORK – Wedding photographers, uniquely positioned to observe couples in moments of peak stress and joy, are revealing the subtle behavioral cues that can foreshadow marital breakdown, even before the honeymoon ends.Experts say these observations offer a revealing glimpse into a couple’s ability to navigate conflict and sustain a long-term partnership.
While a seemingly perfect wedding day is often portrayed as the start of “happily ever after,” professionals who document these events are increasingly aware that the facade can mask underlying issues. The stakes are high: roughly 40-50% of U.S. first marriages end in divorce, according to the American Psychological Association, and identifying potential problems early could prompt couples to seek premarital counseling or address fundamental incompatibilities.
Photographer C.T. Griffith noted the importance of observing a couple’s natural chemistry. “It’s not difficult for a photographer to notice,” Griffith explained. “Some couples have unbelievable chemistry, while others appear as though they can barely tolerate being near each other.”
Beyond initial impressions, how a couple responds to certain wedding-day mishaps is a critical indicator. Devin Dugard, a freelance photographer, emphasized the importance of problem-solving skills under pressure. “That’s when their ability to work through issues becomes very clear. Are they a team, or are they at odds with one another?” he stated.
A lack of eye contact, especially on a momentous occasion like a wedding, can also signal a deeper disconnect. Dugard clarified, “It’s understandable to be unsure where to look when being photographed, but avoiding eye contact with your partner, especially during the wedding, can indicate a lack of connection.”
Dugard also highlighted instances of disrespectful behavior as red flags. He recalled situations where partners forcibly smeared cake on each other’s faces or doused one another with champagne without consent. ”That demonstrates a disregard for the other person’s wishes, which can be a concerning sign in any relationship,” he said.
Ultimately, photographers say it’s the small gestures that reveal the most. Dugard observed that couples who offer gentle support, reassurance, and empathy demonstrate a strong foundation for overcoming future challenges. Conversely, displays of blame, disrespect, or unresolved tension are warning signs. “When couples are tender, supportive, and quickly soothe one another, that’s a great indicator they’ll be able to navigate bigger challenges together. But when you see accusations, disrespect, or unresolved tension, that’s where the red flags appear,” Dugard concluded.
(Sources: nypost.com, dailymail.co.uk)
