The ultimate collection of tips for wedding photographers
Wedding photographers often have to deal with many different intricacies of the job, so we're going to share some tips.
1. Comfortable shoes
You will definitely be doing a lot of walking on your wedding day. Wear the most comfortable shoes possible – no one wants an irritated photographer.
2. Remove obstacles
At almost every wedding, there is a relative who cares about sneaking in everywhere and directing everything. Such relatives spoil many photos and waste your time, so you must politely remove them. Be confident and just say that you work a little differently and would like to be allowed to work. Don't overdo it, you're still just a photographer.
3. Breaking traditions
Some couples take very seriously the tradition that the groom is not allowed to see the bride in her dress before the wedding. However, in order for the album to work perfectly and contain photos of only the couple, this tradition needs to be broken. Because it would take up a lot of precious time, which will not be available during the holiday itself. After all, this is how the bride gets a chance to try out her hair and makeup.
4. Don't miss the most important shots
Perhaps the most common complaint from brides is that the wedding photographer doesn't get all the shots they want. Get together and make a list of the most important shots, this must be very important for wedding photographers. Both of you choose some examples and have a good discussion on this topic.
5. Changing lenses
If the couple can't relax, try shooting from a distance with a dedicated lens. This is the best way to start the photo shoot as the couple gets used to the camera.
6. Get to know each other
When discussing important shots, don't forget to ask the bride to give you the contact details of the people involved in the planning – they may also need to discuss something with you, so it would be helpful to at least know their names. Also, do not get lost among children during the holiday.
7. Wedding dresses are white!!
Often, when cameras detect a large white spot, such as a bride's dress, they darken it. To avoid this, check your camera settings.
8. Have two cameras
There is nothing worse than a broken camera during an important event. Insure yourself by taking a second camera. You can also save time by adding different lenses to both cameras - if you need a different lens, you don't have to waste time changing, just pick up another camera.
9. Have a second photographer
Beginner photographers often work alone. However, there are a number of reasons why you shouldn't work alone - two shooting angles, better photos, and ultimately extra equipment in case of an emergency. If you can't afford it, contact local budding photographers and offer to help them in return for helping you.
10. Have enough energy and memory
There is a good chance that your camera will die during the day, so carry an extra battery. Even if you don't need it, it will still be more peaceful. Also, have at least a few memory cards, especially if you're working with a camera that uses two cards. Carry more than you usually use - just like a battery, even if you don't need it, it'll still be quieter.
11. Don't overdo it
Be yourself, but remain invisible for most of the celebration. It's their day after all. You own the main photo session, after that be invisible, do not disturb, just capture the most beautiful moments.
12. Don't skip the details
Weddings take months to plan, so the bride will be very happy if you capture every detail. Try to do it while it is still being prepared. Also take pictures of the surroundings (obviously before the wedding, when no one is around). After all, you can forward photos of the venue to the venue owner as self-promotion.
13. Clearly advertise what services you provide.
You definitely don't want to argue with a client after work. Be sure to say how many hours you'll be working, whether you'll be making an album, etc.
14. SLOW DOWN
Frequent new wedding photographer boasts of capturing over 2,000 shots in one celebration. Everyone has their own work style, but quality is more important than quantity - in the end, less work for you.
15. Plan your time properly
A planned agenda never runs smoothly, so you have to prepare for it. For example, if there is an hour in the agenda for a photo session, plan your work for half an hour. Make the most of every minute.
16. Be vigilant
Everyone knows that the best photos are the ones where everything happens naturally. Observe your surroundings and wait for the most beautiful moments. Let children be children
17. Keep calm
A calm photographer - calm people in the photos. If you're nervous or look like you don't know what you're doing, you won't be trusted and people will be tense.
18. Take advantage of the environment.
Shoot through gaps in fences, through windows, through people or plants. In this way, the viewer feels as if they are taking part in the action. After all, natural light is everyone's best friend, so be sure to make the most of it.
19. Know the rules of the church
Some churches do not allow photography, so be sure to find out if you will be able to work the way you want. This is not limited to churches - you must know and respect the rules of other religions.
20. Finer agenda
It is very easy to miss such important moments as cutting the cake or throwing the bouquet. Often the plan is rough and such important details are forgotten. This is even more important if you work alone.
21. Emergency assistance
In addition to your usual first aid kit, add a large sheet of white paper for the bride to stand on without fear of getting dirty. Also decorations - a hanger, a large picture frame, etc.
22. Smiles
Smiles are very important to wedding photographers, but often people forget that they are being photographed and that they should be smiling. Sometimes remind me in a non-obtrusive way, because it's not fun when people look sad at such a celebration.
23. Get moving
Wedding photoshoots are the hardest because you don't have time to play with camera settings. You need to know your tool well and be able to quickly select the desired settings so that you don't miss anything.
24. Slow kisses
Normal kisses are too short for photo shoots, so tell the newlyweds to kiss slowly to get at least a few good shots. They should not object to it.
25. Don't forget to mute the camera
You really don't want to hear Kalashnikov shots during an important moment.
26. Have a tripod or flash
For wedding photographers, a sharp image must be very important, you will get it with a longer exposure, but without a tripod or flash, you will not do it, because everyone's hands will shake.
27. Find time to relax
For example, when everyone is eating - no one needs such photos. You are human too.
28. Unconventional angles
If possible, shoot from the most unusual angles possible. You can take pictures even when approaching the subject of the picture.
29. Don't forget the fun photos
Sometimes you need to relax. Not all photos have to be serious. After all, laughter is important too. Ideas can be easily found online.
30. A question worth thousands
When you send the photos and the bride is satisfied, don't forget to advertise. Just ask if she knows anyone who might need a wedding photographer.
31. Have a small ladder
Not only will it be easier to photograph large groups, but it will also be possible to use it in other creative ways.
32. Dress appropriately
You don't have to jump out. Every wedding is different and you need to think about whether you will dress as an outsider or as a full participant in the wedding.
33. Don't forget grandmas and grandpas
Maybe young people don't think about it, but it's quite interesting to add photos of couples of respectable age to the album. Not only a beautiful event that unites generations, but after a few years it will become priceless shots. For wedding photographers, it is the goal to present all the participants of the celebration!
34. Guide the family "photographers"
You have to take a break sometimes, and family members like to have pictures on their phones too, so let them take pictures during your break. Be specific about how long your break will last.
35, Keep the bouquet below
Bouquets look best held at around the navel level. Say this because bouquets are usually held too high.
