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If this is your first time taking pictures at a big occasion, it can be quite intimidating. 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 Technical knowledge of lighting effects and the like just isn’t enough; you also need some basics of keeping things moving while you shoot.

Some wedding photography tips that can be quite useful are:

Create a Photo List

Ask the couple well before the ceremony to make a list of shots they’re sure they want, especially family shots, and make a hard copy of the list to check as the event progresses. It is quite frustrating when you have had the photos done, and realize then that you have missed the photograph of the couple with their grandmother.

Put a Family Member In Charge Of Organizing Photos

The family photos at a wedding can drive you crazy. People are milling about chatting and more interested in celebrating than having their photos taken. Ask the newlyweds to suggest a relative or family member from each side who can stand as director of photography – his or her job would be to gather everyone up, make sure they’re included in the shot; plus keep things flowing so that the newlyweds can thoroughly enjoy the party.

Survey the Wedding Locations

If you have a lay out or plan of where to take the best shots would be very helpful. Try to determine the places where light would come from and maybe even have the couple up for some test shots which can be added to their “pre-nuptial photos.

Make sure you’re prepared

Many things can go off beam on the day of the event so it is best to be ready with a plan to fall back on, such as having additional batteries charged, extra memory cards and a copy of the day’s schedule. It will also be a good idea for you to attend the wedding rehearsal to gather more information about shooting positions, lighting and others.

Set Realistic Expectations

Let the couple look over your portfolio to ensure they like your style, and make sure you know the shots they consider essential, the rough number of shots they want, and what they want to achieve. If you accept payment for your services, make certain that you and the customer have reached an agreement on the price.

Make your Camera Silent

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.

Take Note of the Little Details

Try to add originality to your photographs, and be sure to include individual shots of the table settings, flowers, and even the back of the dresses. Look at wedding magazines to get some ideas.

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. A minimum of two can do well – one with broad angle lens for candid shots as well as in tight places and other with longer lens.

Use another Photographer

Two photographers at a wedding are a great idea as it allows for less running around and more opportunity to capture shots from different angles. It’s helpful to have someone who can share the burden of getting the “big” pictures so you can both also catch the details and candid moments. It will also be much easier as there’s less pressure on you being the sole photographer.

Be Bold yet Unobtrusive

When you stay timid at the back, you may well be missing ‘the shot’ and you won’t be able to confine a great moment if you don’t move around. In addition, it is essential to time and think about your precise position for the ‘key’ moments so you will not disrupt the event. Make sure that you time your movement with the songs, hymns or long readings so to cause the least disruption.

Weddings are festive events and one of the best ways to ease up the couple and the party during formal shots is to do fun shots as well. Photographers are always ready to respond with a smile because it will cause a postitve response in people. Pay special attention to the background and perspective to get surprisingly easy effects from your camera. Once the wedding ceremony is over, it would be nice to show off some of the photos at the reception which your guests will be sure to enjoy.

Filed under: Hobbies on April 15th, 2009