How To Prepare For Wedding photography

If you've got photography skills, why not try you hands at wedding photography? It's a great opportunity to earn cool bucks. But, yes, you need to do the job right.

What makes a professional photographer? Preparation! Lots of it. And don't forget you need technical skills too. For a wedding photographer, it becomes utmost important that he or she does the job right. This is because wedding is a special occasion for people and they'd expect you to capture all the special moments in the best manner.

Preparing For The Big Job

Wedding photography is not casual photography. It requires a great deal of responsibility and professionalism. You should meet the couple well in advance to discuss their likes. This gives you a clear idea on how the photographs are to be taken and at what moments. The couple may have some special preferences. They may want their photographs from a particular angle; plus, with a different background or a custom-made wedding photo frame. You should discuss every aspect, including your wedding photography prices with them to avoid dissatisfaction later.

You also need to talk to the priest to know any guidelines that he might impose. There are certain churches where they don't allow photographs to be taken inside. It's best to know about any such restrictions in advance to prevent an awkward situation on the wedding day, when you raise your camera and the priest says "Stop!"

For good wedding photography, you must be familiar with the place. Therefore, it's best to take a stroll around the church or hotel or whatever place the wedding will be held to spot scenic backgrounds for the perfect shot. Take notes on interfering objects, the place where light falls best, and other such aspects. This will help you plan your entire photography session. You'll be saved from running to and fro on the big day searching for the best spot.

On The Big Day

Well, the big day has arrived! Put lots of extra batteries and memory, in case of a digital camera; and film, in case of film camera. Always have a spare camera with you. What if your camera breaks down just when the bride and groom are about to kiss?!

It's a good idea to hire an assistant. He or she can gather people for taking pictures, arrange chairs for sitting shots, and run other such errands for you. Besides, it creates a positive impression to have an assistant with you!

Classic Shots

For a well planned wedding photography session, make a list of all the classic images that should be clicked on a wedding. You just can't miss shooting the wedding cake, flower arrangements, a close-up of the bride and groom, and a full shot of the couple.

Finally, have ample business cards with you. Who knows you might get another wedding photography opportunity!