======================================So You Want to Photograph Weddings?
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By Suzanne Vandegrift
Being a wedding photographer takes special talent and a lot of
preparation. The pictures a wedding photographer takes can't be retaken. Once the wedding and reception are over, they're over. If the pictures aren't good you don't get a second chance to take them over again as you can a family portrait. So make sure you're ready for that kind of dedication and pressure. This being said, there are many things that can be done to assure the wedding photographer success.
The first order of business needs to be a meeting with the happy couple. Be prepared to make a list of the photographs that they have in mind for the big day. That way there will be no chance of you forgetting any of the important pictures they have their hearts set on including in their wedding album. Do your homework before getting together with them so that you can make some suggestions for pictures they might like, but haven't thought of on their own. If possible, take some photo albums for them to look through. Take your camera bag along so that you present yourself in a professional manner.
Have everything ready the day before. Make sure your camera is in working order with the sound turned off. If possible, take two cameras, so you'll have one as a back-up. Have ample memory cards, charged batteries, and lenses. Have your camera bag packed and ready to go. Know where the wedding is being held and travel the route prior to the wedding to avoid being late.
Remember, there is already a lot of stress in the beginning of the wedding with everyone trying to make sure everything goes off without a hitch. As the photographer, you need to stay calm and focused, literally. Shoot everything you possibly can, and don't forget the list you made with the bride and groom. Those shots are very important. As the photographer you can't afford to be shy. It's your responsibility to get in there and get those priceless shots before they disappear. But don't be obnoxious.
Shoot from all angles to give the photos variety and uniqueness. Shoot from up high and down low to get an entirely different perspective. Make sure you find out ahead of time if the church
allows the use of a flash, many don't. If they don't, be ready with a back-up plan, such as using a fast lens at wide apertures or increasing the ISO.
Be prepared for the unexpected, such as inclement weather. Approach it as a positive not a negative. Have a plan in place for getting memorable shots that the couple will cherish. Enjoy what you're doing and it will relax your subjects and you'll also enjoy the day. Have your camera bag handy at all times for changing memory cards and lenses quickly. A top loading camera bag allows easy access which is a helpful feature for this type of photography. Choose a camera bag that is attractive and has a professional appearance so that you present yourself as a pro.
