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BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: Tips for Taking Wedding Photos

Photography Question 

Tamela L. Weese 		 

Shooting My First Wedding and I'm Terrified.


I would just like someone to help me with a few questions on my first wedding. Should I have the couple sign a contract? Where am I allowed to be during the ceremony? Do I need to talk to the minister before the wedding? Just any tips anybody can give me to help me through. Thank You.


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May 19, 2004

 

Kai Eiselein 		  First, take a deep breath. Yes, you should have a contract. You might be able to find a simple one online.
ALWAYS talk to the minister. He/she will let you know where you can or cannot be during the ceremony. You also need to find out if you can use your flash during the ceremony. Most allow flash photos of at least the processional and recessional. Others don't allow any photos at all during the ceremony. Always check in advance.
Take at least two cameras, extra batteries, and plenty of film. (I forgot the film once.) Find someone who knows who is who in the families and wedding party. They can be a big help in getting people rounded up for group photos.
Always stay calm, and be prepared for the unexpected.


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May 23, 2004

 

doug Nelson 		  You are scared because you have normal common sense. You've taken on a serious responsibility. Having said that, as long as you have practiced with your camera and flash, with the subject matter, places, and distances you will be shooting, and your shots look OK, relax and enjoy the shoot.
Color negative film has some latitude if you happen to be a stop or two off. Be SURE the flash synchronization speed is set right in your camera's shutter function. Be SURE the film speed is set right. Kai's suggestion on getting a helper to round up people for groups shots is dead-on.


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May 24, 2004

 

John L. Webb 		 
 
  Lip Gloss
Lip Gloss
Leica MP 75mm lens approx 1/30

John L. Webb

  
 
I've shot hundreds of weddings, Just recall that the wedding party will take their cues from you ... as long as you act in control, where appropriate, you will do fine. Keep your disposition sunny and upbeat, and practice in your head and heart BEFORE the shoot. My own style is photojournalistic, so the posed portion makes up not even a third of the total shots. Plan your splits for black and white and color, if any. Have sound contacts for developing your shots if you will not be doing them yourself. And above all, find out what the couple wants! It has been my experience that the images that are most treasured by my clients are the unposed, "as it happens" moments. These allow you to remain in the background observing the moment while not intruding.

I would touch base with whomever is performing the ceremony as well as the wedding planner, if any, and make sure they are aware of what the couple's choices are as far as shooting during the ceremony. I use Leica cameras so this too keeps me in the background and the noise level to a minimum.

Above all, enjoy yourself! You are lucky to cover such an important and blessed event. Open your heart, and your eyes will see what to shoot. Good luck. If I can be of any personal help to you, drop me a line on e-mail and I will reply ASAP.


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May 25, 2004

 
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