Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies (JSSHRS)

Negotiating Relational Identity: How Couples Construct Visual Representation in Prewedding Photography

Kurniawan, Bobby, Dian Sukmawati

29 April 2026 · Vol. 2, Issue 4, pp. 436-443

DOI: 10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E4/2026-16

Abstract

This study examines how couples negotiate their identity in prewedding photography as a form of visual communication. Previous studies have mainly treated prewedding photos as symbolic representations or idealised images, with limited attention to the interaction processes that shape these visual outcomes. This research adopts a qualitative interpretative approach, using in-depth interviews and participant observation involving three engaged couples and supporting photographers. The findings indicate that a couple’s identity is not fixed prior to the photo session. Instead, it is constructed through ongoing interaction, negotiation, and adjustment between partners with different backgrounds and preferences. The study identifies three configurations of identity negotiation: dominance, collaboration, and mediation. Each configuration produces distinct forms of visual representation. In addition, identity negotiation operates at multiple levels. At the interpersonal level, couples negotiate their preferences and meanings. At the production level, photographers act as mediators who translate ideas into visual form. At the social level, decisions are influenced by cultural norms, family values, and public expectations. The findings also reveal that prewedding photography serves both as a medium of representation and as a means of identity validation. Overall, this study suggests that prewedding photography is a constructive communication practice in which identity is actively produced and reinforced through relational negotiation.

Keywords: identity negotiation, visual communication, prewedding photography, representation, couple relationship

Read the full text on Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies →The full peer-reviewed article and PDF are hosted on the journal's site (the version of record).

Kurniawan, Bobby, & Dian Sukmawati (2026). Negotiating Relational Identity: How Couples Construct Visual Representation in Prewedding Photography. Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies, 2(4), 436-443. https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E4/2026-16

@article{Kurniawan2026,
  title   = {Negotiating Relational Identity: How Couples Construct Visual Representation in Prewedding Photography},
  author  = {Kurniawan and Bobby and Dian Sukmawati},
  journal = {Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies},
  year    = {2026},
  volume  = {2},
  number  = {4},
  pages   = {436-443},
  doi     = {10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E4/2026-16},
  url     = {https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E4/2026-16}
}

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