Wedding Photography

If you are looking for a way to make some extra money as a photographer, taking pictures at weddings is usually a very lucrative option. Weddings can be really fun and you will get to meet a wide variety of interesting people. Regardless of whether you want to do it full time or as an additional income stream you will definitely find the following advice useful.

No list of wedding photography tips can be complete without the mention of having a checklist. It may seem trivial beforehand but the bride won’t find it funny when she realizes there is no separate picture of herself with her father! The better prepared you are, the more professional you’ll appear. It’s easy to forget something in the hassle and confusion of a wedding. Remember that you have been entrusted with a very important family event that can be repeated. Do everything you can to live up to expectations.

Hiring an assistant is generally a good idea. Even though it may cost you a bit it is really a worthwhile investment. You don’t want to keep your “audience” waiting whilst you frantically look for that telephoto lens. A good assistant will save you loads of time and will you will have a more professional air around you. It’s also important to have a good vibe with the guests. The way they feel about you will have some effect on how they express themselves in the pictures. It’s good to have a few funny stories to get them relaxed. Having said that, don’t forget that you’re not there to socialize. Don’t get caught standing around, or even worse, flirting with the bridesmaids before the wedding is over.

As a practical matter, make sure that all the payment arrangements are made before the date. At the very least, it’s quite normal to demand half of your fee as soon as the booking is confirmed. Be sure to discuss any requirements and have them written on paper to avoid embarrassing disappointments in future. Even though it’s not required you may benefit from bringing a couple of plain backgrounds (probably a black and a white one). These are often handy when you are doing portrait shots. Again, you may benefit from having an assistant to help you set them up.

Perhaps the most important one of all wedding photography tips is that you should take as many photographs as you humanly can. That way you are more likely to create those special gems the family will cherish forever. If you use a digital camera makes sure it’s a professional one that simulates a 35mm film camera. You may find it useful to bring a macro lens to take pictures of the rings and other little details. Whatever happens remember to have fun. Some weddings are really stressful – you’ll be surprised how often people will look up to you to have a clear head. Wedding photography is a business built on referrals. Take your time to carefully build a reputation that will automatically attract more work to you.