Wedding Photography – 11 Tips for Amateur Wedding Photographers

A shot list should be created

One of the best tips I have received regarding Amateur Wedding Photographers was to ask the couple for ideas about the photos they want to take.

You can then compile a checklist so you can verify each shot. This is especially helpful for family shots. There is nothing worse than receiving the photos back to discover that you didn’t capture the happy couple with Grandma.

Find a family photo coordinator for wedding photography

Family photo can be stressful for me. People are running around everywhere, you don’t realize the various family dynamics, and people can be in a “festive mood” (and often have been drinking a lot of spirits), which can lead to chaos.

The couple can nominate a family member, or one for each family member, to be the “director”. They can help gather everyone, assist in getting them in the shot and keep it moving so that the couple can go back to the party.

Scout the location

You can visit the locations where you will be shooting the photos before the big day.

Even though most pros won’t do this, it’s something I find really useful. Knowing where you’re going, knowing a few shots and how the light might affect your shots is great. Before I went to a few weddings, I had already visited some locations with my clients and taken a few test shots. These photos made for great “engagement pictures”.

Preparation is key in wedding photography

You never know what could happen so be prepared. You should have a backup plan in case of bad conditions, batteries charged, and memory cards blank. Think about routes and times you need to get there. You can get a complete day’s itinerary so you know exactly what’s going on. Attend the rehearsal of ceremony. This will give you a lot more information about where to shoot, how lighting works, etc.

Set expectations with the couple

Show your style and work to the couple. Get to know what the couple wants, how many shots they require, key points they wish to be captured, and how the photos will be used (for print, etc.). You should have an agreement on the price before you charge them for the event.

Turn off the sound from your camera

Beeps during speeches, the sex, and vows do not  add value to the event. Turn off your camera sounds and leave them off.

Be mindful of the smallest details

Photograph rings are the backs of dresses, shoes Amateur Wedding Photographers or flowers. These give your album an extra dimension. You can find inspiration by looking through a couple’s wedding magazine at a newsstand.

Use two cameras

For the day, you can borrow, hire, steal, or borrow an extra camera. Then, set it up with a new lens. I usually shoot with two lenses: one wide-angle lens, which is great for candid shots and in tight spaces. The other lens I use is a longer lens (if I can afford one) that can reach 200mm.

A second photographer is an option

It can be a good idea to have a second photographer. It allows you to be more mobile during ceremonies and speeches. The other photographer can take candid shots, while the formal shots are captured by the first. This takes away some of the pressure that comes with being “the one” to get every shot.

Be bold but not too loud

Being tepid won’t get your shot, so it is important to be bold and capture the moment.

But timing is everything. Planning ahead is key to Amateur Wedding Photographers ensure that you’re in the right spot at the right moment is essential to avoid disrupting the event.

I aim to move at least four times in a ceremony. But, my moves should coincide with sermons, longer readings, songs, or sermons. When taking formal photos, be bold, ask for what you want and know your wishes. This is the moment to drive the show.

Learn how to diffuse light

You need to be able bounce or diffuse flashes. In many churches, the light level is extremely low. If you are allowed to use a Flash (and some churches do not allow it), you should think about whether it will work by bouncing it off a colored surface. Or, you may want to consider buying a flash diffuser to soften it.

You will need to use a flash-free lens that can be adjusted for wide apertures, ISO settings, and a fast zoom. An image stabilizer lens might be a good option. Learn more about flash reflectors and diffusers.

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