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Wedding photography is a type of commercial photography which covers weddings. Wedding photographers take images of brides, grooms, and the wedding party. They also shoot photos of other events related to weddings.
While many wedding photographers schedule an official shoot, before or after vows are exchanged. Other wedding photographers also shoot pictures of the events leading up to the wedding, or the exchange of vows. These services might include photographs to be used for engagement announcements/thank you cards or photos of the rehearsal dinner and reception.
As a career and profession, wedding photography has the potential to be a lucrative field. Once you are established, you can make a great living working less than 40 hours a week, if you so choose.
Start Small
At some point, you will need to put aside any trepidation and shoot your first wedding. Many budding photographers practice their craft with other types of events first and then look for jobs online. Sites like Craigslist can give you a user-friendly format to find employment without needing too much experience.
Contract
It is essential that you produce a (written) agreement between yourself and your clients. You can do a basic online search of free templates or ask a mentor photographer for a sample of the contract they use. Never shoot a wedding or event unless you have an agreement signed between the responsible parties.
This type of agreement can protect you against lawsuits and complaints, as it will lay out precisely what you will do and the turnaround time (say, to produce photographs). If you know that you tend to run late or procrastinate, be sure to state that you will keep the parties apprised about any delays in producing the finished product (photographs). Also, list how many pictures they should expect and what parts of the ceremony, etc.
Make a Shot List
Ask the couple precisely who and what they want to be photographed to give you a guide on the big day so that you don’t forget anything crucial that will inhibit the couple’s happiness with your photos.
For example, the bride may want photographs of the father/daughter dance, cutting of the cake, etc. Make sure that you ask them to review the shot list in advance, as that can minimize disagreements after the event or about the content of your work.
Flash
It is essential to invest in a flash since you cannot guarantee that outdoor or indoor events will have the best lighting. Weddings can be held at all times of day/night, and owning a flash will maximize your ability to take perfect shots. If you are shooting inside or on a cloudy day, the couple whose wedding it is will appreciate clear, well-lit photographs.
Outfit
Since weddings are often formal affairs, consider your wardrobe. While it isn’t advisable to overdress or wear uncomfortable dress shoes, choosing all black and wearing matching black (comfortable!) shoes are the right choice. Wearing one color (such as black) will help you appear formal, which is expected for photographers.
Don’t Skimp
People pay wedding photographers a lot of money. Even for more minimalist weddings, the photographer’s role and the fee are often prioritized. Since so many people entrust you and your photos, be prepared with extra batteries, memory cards, various lenses, and maybe even a new camera body.
While some of this will come with experience, additional gear will protect you when things go wrong. Be sure to back up your images, as the wedding won’t have a do-over if something does misfire.
Consult with the Officiant
The officiant might be a family member, friend, or religious figure (such as a minister, etc.). Some officiants do not want photographs taken during the exchanging of vows or at other times during the ceremony.
If there are any limitations, it is best to know in advance. Whatever you find out, communicate this to the couple, so they are prepared and in agreement.
While you might be nervous before your first wedding shoot (or even the initial 10), the most nervous people will probably the bride and groom. As the official wedding photographer, your role is to show up and do your best!
The more prepared you are, and better at communicating, the better the experience and end product. Have any wedding photography tips? Leave them in the comments!
Worried your photographs are being used by other bloggers or photographers without your consent? Another essential professional step is to use Berify.
Berify is a reverse image search site which will allow you to make sure no one is stealing your portfolio and using it as their own. Newbie photographers might try and book jobs by taking your photographs! Find out and protect your images today!
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