Wedding Photography temptation ?>

Wedding Photography temptation

Wedding Photography temptation

Welcome to another photography tip with regards weddings.

Wedding Photography temptation

 by Simon Everett Photography Kent.

This blog is looking at photographers of all levels.That are interested in becoming or even trying out their photography skills at a Wedding.

So why is it people tell us stay away from weddings, they are to stressful, theirs too much involved etc. I was told this very same thing, however it all depends on your whole attitude toward your skill & mind-set within photography.

Your Level

Most of us think that we can take a perfectly good photograph of just about anything you like, and in most cases is correct, However understanding the concept of what you want to achieve can be very different, For example you have just purchased your first digital camera naturally you want to go out and shoot pictures, don’t we all, However most of us in time learn what makes and looks like a good photograph from bad to boring picture to something a little more thought out, In time and learning from others we can meet your own personal goal of where we want to be in the field of photography, Whether we do Weddings, Portraits, Landscapes, Sports, lighting & flash photography, Travel, and many others, so after a set time and learning not only your technique but your equipment as well, after all it’s the first place to start with our camera, knowing it’s fun potential and what it can do for us as photographers.

Why Weddings

Why not it is after all still photography and is of a timed nature.But most importantly it’s not something to be afraid of. The only level being that you feel that you’re not ready for it, this could cover many different aspects of why you think you’re not ready. Equipment, time spent as a photographer, attitude.. lets look at Equipment.

You don’t need super expensive Equipment to cover a wedding. I have read of people taking pictures of a wedding using there mobile, however the level of quality would be a reason here . Delivering the final images to a would be client is of key importance. I’m sure that this would be cause for concern for them, being paying clients etc.

So what Equipment would you need. I do have this deep belief of travelling light. Keep equipment to a minimum for lots of reasons, but this is just my point of view. Of course a DSLR camera is required along with a nice choice of lenses in my case 3x. Lenses that would do the job range differently for different people. A 70-200mmf/2.8 “workhorse of lenses” a wide-angle lens and something middle of the road 24-105mm 24-70mmf/2.8. Or 85mm f/1.2 these would be more than enough to cover the entire venue.

Time Spent as a Photographer

Simon Everett Photography Kent

You don’t have to have 10 years experience as a photographer to start Photographing weddings or even 5 years really. There are photographers out there with far fewer years in the field. However coupled with attitude and passion, & dedication or APD as I like call it,  this will drive you to cover weddings.

Only you yourself will know if you are ready for them, but remember never underestimate your abilities to achieve anything.

Planning

Planning is in my book is essential dealing with the clients direct. Getting to know them & above all getting them to trust you. So the day goes smoothly, is a very clear & good start point. Visiting the site either by yourself or with the clients is also important in order that you know the location and can plan your photography on the day. Working out where you want to shoot, where you can shoot, as on the day there is a time factor to consider. On a normal recce to the location of a wedding I will take several dozen test images. Some using nature light others using a flash or light modifier set up. I can go over on the computer later on what my set up will be and the general position and equipment I will need for the day.

Will there be indoor Photographs required. Will you need a flash etc. These all come into consideration when planning.

Of course planning takes time but its part of the wedding photography venue.
Prior to the big day I would concentrate on going over in your mind and using reference images of the site to remind yourself of the location and what photographs you want to achieve prior to the venue as this will help as the location recce could have been several months before the venue day.  At a wedding it’s not uncommon for me to have two cameras on the go at the same time this saves time swapping out lenses, and shows the clients the level of professionalism you hold even if you’re a beginner, it calms not only the clients down as remember it’s their big day and our very nervous also, but relaxes yourself as you feel in better control.

So little things to remember having a duel camera set up is yes an expensive venture of course however it’s worth thinking if you really want to photograph weddings, as making the day easier on yourself is as important as taking the photographs as well.

On the Day

Wedding Cake close up

The big day has arrived & at this time especially if your first wedding you have nerves to the point that you think that you’re the one getting married. But on that keep thinking of what you want to achieve from your photographs. And remember that nothing ever goes to plan. You may well have thought of everything that you need for the day and where to shoot. But 9 times out of 10 something will change and you will have to think on your feet. So having some back ups plans can help, to stay focused.

Conclusion
Never be afraid of shooting a wedding. As long as you have a well thought out plan and have all the information you need. Remember things can change & seldom always do, so quick thinking can help, as well having someone with you. It does not have to be a one man band. Having someone with you to hold your equipment or lighting is always a plus. Just remember in most cases wedding photography is a paying profession. So pay your Assistant for there hard work, as this will help to an effective team for the future.

I hope this is a helpful blog for all those who are considering taking on wedding photography.
Lastly enjoy it, it’s not rocket science. You are doing something you have a passion for so why enjoy the day. It will also help you relax as even the best wedding photographer gets the attack of the nerves to.

Many thanks for reading.

Simon

You can connect with me and find out more about what I do at the following link below. If you have any questions to this related topic or indeed anything photographic please get in touch. Either here or on my website.

Simon Everett Photography Kent
www.simoneverettphotographykent.co.uk

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