It can be quite intimidating to even start thinking about taking wedding pictures on such a special occasion. You would want to produce great shots that will be appreciated and surpass every bodies expectations.
Perhaps the most difficult subjects for amateur photographers is Wedding photography Some basic knowledge on how to keep things moving and going on while you point and shoot people and events, are needed even though you may well have all the technical knowledge required.
Some wedding photography tips that can be quite useful are:
Create a Photo List
Doing photography at a couple’s wedding requires you to ensure that you capture all of the key moments they want and so a list discussed beforehand is a great tool which can be used as a checklist during the event. Careful planning will ensure that you do not forget to take a photo of the couple with key members of the family such as grandparents and the like.
Put a Family Member In Charge Of Organizing Photos
The family photos at a wedding can drive you crazy. The quests have other things on their mind rather than posing for photos One representative of both the bride’s and grooms family should be put in charge of taking pictures, and ensure that they all assemble at the right time and in the right order to be photographed.
Survey the Wedding Locations
Amateur photographers might want to draw a map of places to get the best shots before the actual event. Get an early look at the site to figure out lighting angles and have the couple pose for test shots if you can.
Plan For Everything
Sometimes things don’t go according to plan on the big day, so it is good to be prepared with backups - extra batteries, memory cards for cameras, and think carefully about the day’s itinerary and travel plans. It will also be a nice idea for you to go to the wedding rehearsal to find more details about the shooting areas, lights and various things.
Set Reasonable Goals
It’s a good idea to meet with the couple to show examples of other weddings you have photographed and see what they have in mind. If you accept payment for your services, make certain that you and the customer have reached an agreement on the price.
Turn-off the Sound of you Camera
Switch of the sound of all the camera equipment before the ceremony and keep it silent throughout the speeches, the all-important couple’s first kiss and exchange of vows.
Photograph the Details
You’ll want shots of the backs of dresses as well as the fronts, special shoes, the wedding rings, at least one table setting. You can get some good ideas from wedding magazines.
Use More than One Camera
If you own only one camera, try to borrow or rent others; you can set each up with a different lens to allow quick swapping. At least two would be fine - a broad angle lens for candid shots, which will also work fine in tight places, and another with a long lens for distance shots.
Have an Alternate Photographer
A support photographer can be an enormous help as it means ha move less during the ceremony and the speeches. Having someone with you can share the tasks of capturing the official shots while not missing the outspoken shots. It becomes easier and less stressful because you are not the only photographer.
Be bold, but unobtrusive
You need to move right upfront at a wedding to ensure you don’t miss important shots so don’t be shy. In addition, it is essential to time and think about your precise position for the ‘key’ moments so you will not disrupt the event. Move around at least 5 times, but try to coincide your movement with the longer readings or songs.
Wedding are at time of celebration and you should make everyone comfortable with some fun shots. As the photographer, always be ready with a smile as people will respond to it. Pay special attention to the background and perspective to get surprisingly easy effects from your camera. When the ceremony is over, you can show off some of the photos at the reception for people to enjoy.
