Wedding Photography - 21 Tips for for Amateur Wedding Photographers
“Help me - I’m photographing my first Wedding!… Help me with some Wedding Photography Tips Please!”
It’s a question that’s been asked a few times in our forums over the last few months so while I’m not a Pro Wedding Photographer I thought it was time to share a few tips on the topic of Wedding Photography .
I’ll leave the technical tips of photographing a wedding to the pros - but as someone who has been asked to photograph numerous friends and family weddings - here are a few suggestions.
Wedding Photography Tips
1. Create a ‘Shot List’
Get the couple to think ahead about the shots that they’d like you to capture on the day and compile a list so that you can check them off. This is particularly helpful in the family shots. There’s nothing worse than getting the photos back and realizing you didn’t photograph the happy couple with grandma!
2. Family Photo Coordinator
I find the family photo part of the day can be quite stressful. People are going everywhere, you’re unaware of the different family dynamics at play and people are in a ‘festive spirit’ (and have often been drinking a few spirits) to the point where it can be quite chaotic. Get the couple to nominate a family member (or one for each side of the family) who can be the ‘director’ of the shoot. They can round everyone up, help get them in the shot and keep things moving so that the couple can get back to the party.
3. Scout the Location
Visit the locations of the different places that you’ll be shooting before the big day. While I’m sure most Pros don’t do this - I find it really helpful to know where we’re going, have an idea of a few positions for shots and to know how the light might come into play. On one or two weddings I even visited locations with the couples and took a few test shots (these made nice ‘engagement photos’).
4. Preparation is key
So much can go wrong on the day - so you need to be well prepared. Have a backup plan (in case of bad weather), have batteries charged, memory cards blank, think about routes and time to get to places and get an itinerary of the full day so you know what’s happening next. If you can, attend the rehearsal of the ceremony where you’ll gather a lot of great information about possible positions to shoot from, the lighting, the order of the ceremony etc
5. Set expectations with the Couple
Show them your work/style. Find out what they are wanting to achieve, how many shots they want, what key things they want to be recorded, how the shots will be used (print etc). If you’re charging them for the event, make sure you have the agreement of price in place up front.
6. Turn off the sound on your camera
Beeps during speeches, the kiss and vows don’t add to the event. Switch off sound before hand and keep it off.
7. Shoot the small details
Photograph rings, backs of dresses, shoes, flowers, table settings, menus etc - these help give the end album an extra dimension. Flick through a wedding magazine in a news stand for a little inspiration.
8. Use Two Cameras
Beg, borrow, hire or steal an extra camera for the day - set it up with a different lens. I try to shoot with one wide angle lens (great for candid shots and in tight spaces (particularly before the ceremony in the preparation stage of the day) and one longer lens (it can be handy to have something as large as 200mm if you can get your hands on one - I use a 70-200mm).
9. Consider a Second Photographer
Having a second backup photographer can be a great strategy. It means less moving around during ceremony and speeches, allows for one to capture the formal shots and the other to get candid shots. It also takes a little pressure off you being ‘the one’ to have to get every shot!
10. Be Bold but Not Obtrusive
Timidity won’t get you ‘the shot’ - sometimes you need to be bold to capture a moment. However timing is everything and thinking ahead to get in the right position for key moments are important so as not to disrupt the event. In a ceremony I try to move around at least 4-5 times but try to time this to coincide with songs, sermons or longer readings. During the formal shots be bold, know what you want and ask for it from the couple and their party. You’re driving the show at this point of the day and need to keep things moving.
11. Learn how to Use Diffused Light
The ability to bounce a flash or to diffuse it is key. You’ll find that in many churches that light is very low. If you’re allowed to use a flash (and some churches don’t allow it) think about whether bouncing the flash will work (remember if you bounce off a colored surface it will add a colored cast to the picture) or whether you might want to buy a flash diffuser to soften the light. If you can’t use a flash you’ll need to either use a fast lens at wide apertures and/or bump up the ISO. A lens with image stabilization might also help. Learn more about Using Flash Diffusers and Reflectors.
12. Shoot in RAW
I know that many readers feel that they don’t have the time for shooting in RAW (due to extra processing) but a wedding is one time that it can be particularly useful as it gives so much more flexibility to manipulate shots after taking them. Weddings can present photographers with tricky lighting which result in the need to manipulate exposure and white balance after the fact - RAW will help with this considerably.
13. Display Your Shots at the Reception
One of the great things about digital photography is the immediacy of it as a medium. One of the fun things I’ve seen more and more photographers doing recently is taking a computer to the reception, uploading shots taken earlier in the day and letting them rotate as a slideshow during the evening. This adds a fun element to the night.
14. Consider Your Backgrounds
One of the challenges of weddings is that there are often people going everywhere - including the backgrounds of your shots. Particularly with the formal shots scope out the area where they’ll be taken ahead of time looking for good backgrounds. Ideally you’ll be wanting uncluttered areas and shaded spots out of direct sunlight where there’s unlikely to be a wandering great aunt wander into the back of the shot. Read more on getting backgrounds right.
15. Don’t Discard Your ‘Mistakes’
The temptation with digital is to check images as you go and to delete those that don’t work immediately. The problem with this is that you might just be getting rid of some of the more interesting and useable images. Keep in mind that images can be cropped or manipulated later to give you some more arty/abstract looking shots that can add real interest to the end album.
16. Change Your Perspective
Get a little creative with your shots. While the majority of the images in the end album will probably be fairly ‘normal’ or formal poses - make sure you mix things up a little by taking shots from down low, up high, at wide angles etc.
17. Group Shots
One thing that I’ve done at every wedding that I’ve photographed is attempt to photograph everyone who is in attendance in the one shot. The way I’ve done this is to arrange for a place that I can get up high above everyone straight after the ceremony. This might mean getting tall ladder, using a balcony or even climbing on a roof. The beauty of getting up high is that you get everyone’s face in it and can fit a lot of people in the one shot. The key is to be able to get everyone to the place you want them to stand quickly and to be ready to get the shot without having everyone stand around for too long. I found the best way to get everyone to the spot is to get the bride and groom there and to have a couple of helpers to herd everyone in that direction. Read more on how to take Group Photos.
18. Fill Flash
When shooting outside after a ceremony or during the posed shots you’ll probably want to keep your flash attached to give a little fill in flash. I tend to dial it back a little (a stop or two) so that shots are not blown out - but particularly in backlit or midday shooting conditions where there can be a lot of shadow, fill in flash is a must. Read more about using Fill Flash.
19. Continuous Shooting Mode
Having the ability to shoot a lot of images fast is very handy on a wedding day so switch your camera to continuous shooting mode and use it. Sometimes it’s the shot you take a second after the formal or posed shot when everyone is relaxing that really captures the moment!
20. Expect the Unexpected
One more piece of advice that someone gave me on my own wedding day. ‘Things will Go Wrong - But They Can be the Best Parts of the Day’. In every wedding that I’ve participated in something tends to go wrong with the day. The best man can’t find the ring, the rain pours down just as the ceremony ends, the groom forgets to do up his fly, the flower girl decides to sit down in the middle of the aisle or the bride can’t remember her vows….
These moments can feel a little panicky at the time - but it’s these moments that can actually make a day and give the bride and groom memories. Attempt to capture them and you could end up with some fun images that sum up the day really well.
I still remember the first wedding I photographed where the bride and grooms car crashed into a Tram on the way to the park where we were going to take photos. The bride was in tears, the groom stressed out - but after we’d all calmed down people began to see some of the funny side of the moment and we even took a couple of shots before driving on to the park. They were among everyone’s favorites.
21. Have Fun
Weddings are about celebrating - they should be fun. The more fun you have as the photographer the more relaxed those you are photographing will be. Perhaps the best way to loosen people up is to smile as the photographer (warning: I always come home from photographing weddings with sore jaws and cheeks because of of my smiling strategy).
Want to Learn More about Wedding Photography? Check out these Wedding Photography Books:
- Digital Wedding Photography: Capturing Beautiful Memories
- The Art of Digital Wedding Photography: Professional Techniques with Style (Amphoto)
- Digital Wedding Photography
- The Best of Digital Wedding Photography
Read more posts like 'Wedding Photography - 21 Tips for for Amateur Wedding Photographers'
I can vouch for making a list of shots - my cousin (a natural party planner if there ever was one), created our wedding cakes, decorated our reception hall, and gave me moral support during the “debates” I had with my mother over what I wanted and what Emily Post wanted. Sadly, the only photo I have of my cousin is a candid snapshot that my great aunt took when my husband and I were standing at the groom’s table and my cousin was tending to a little detail with the cake. Because she was looking down, it’s not a full shot like I would have liked. MAKE THOSE LISTS!!!
The title say’s it all!
“Tips for Amature Wedding Photographers”
In a word, keep away from Weddings unless you are a fully competent Professional Wedding Photographer.
You normally only get one chance to do the photographs, and if you dont mind the pressure of actuially taking charge of the shoot and the wrath of the Bride if things go wrong or you produce a pile of rubbish, (as you really cant go far wrong with digital) you will get some pictures. Whether the pictures are any good remains to be seen. (composition, artistic, wow factor, etc)
I do not support amatures misleading brides to be, stating they can do wedding photographs. Oh the number of brides I have spoken to who’s photographer friend, has bottled out at the last minute does not bear thinking about.
Give them a Digital Camarea and hey presto everybody is a Professional Photographer.
Thanks…..
Great advice, but I had that wedding this weekend just gone. Although I wasn’t asked to do the photos I have been asked by the groom if he can see them and have copies. Luckily I had no input into the formal shots and was effectively the second photographer getting the candid and behind the scenes shots.
The other bit of advice I would give for people specifically doing family or friends weddings. Remember there are two sides to the weddings. I find it difficult sometimes to remember to take pics of the other side because I don’t know them and although they are not important to me or the side of the family I know they are to the other side and as Laura mentioned it’s always a shame when there isn’t a pic of someone who was there.
This is great! I’ve done a few weddings as the “second” photographer with no pressures. Since I’m an art director in my day job, I know the importance of a shot list. These tips are great. Keep up the good work.
Some really good tips. I’ve never done this type of event photography - but hey, you never know ^_^. Of the example pics, I really like the one by Ella’s Dad. Perfect.
here is another page with excellent tips!
http://www.christophermaxwell.com/wedding-photography-tips.htm
Ken - I agree with you - to a point.
The reason I put #5 in (getting expectations right with the couple) was because I think it’s so important.
The problem is that many professional wedding photographers are just too expensive for some couples. One of the first weddings I ever did was for a couple who had just suffered the groom being made redundant and they just couldn’t afford the prices of a Pro. While I attempted to dissuade them from me doing it (I was petrified) it was either me or nothing.
So I decided to do it after showing them the standard of images that I take. They went into it knowing that there was a possibility that I’d completely mess it up. That’s why I asked another couple of friends to make sure they took plenty of shots also so there’d at least be some level of back up.
Every wedding since this first one I’ve done the same thing:
1. try to convince the couple to go with a Pro
2. when they insist I show them what I’ve done before, including some of the less spectacular shots
3. attempt to have a backup photographer
Problem is that in most cases the couples couldn’t afford to go with a Pro and had seen the previous shots from other couples and thought they were good. These days I rarely take this type of gig.
I was tapped to be a backup photographer once. Not secondary, backup. Apparently the pro they had was disliked by the couple but was a gift from a parent. He had a reputation for being unreliable, so they planned for the possibility that he’d bail/”have car trouble”/etc
I spent a good while trying to talk them out of using me to no avail. I was incredibly thankful when I wasn’t needed after all. I didn’t even make it to the wedding and I was *stressed*.
“In a word, keep away from Weddings unless you are a fully competent Professional Wedding Photographer.” (Ken)
So…we should stay away from weddings until we magically become competent at shooting weddings?
I say go out and let the risk drive you to improve your skills. No guts, no glory!
Look every photographer has to start somewhere. I did my first wedding as a photographer, I have been videography for 11 years before that though, for my sister as a gift. Plus I used it to start my portfolio.
Another tip would be just learn how to take good pictures of people in other venues. If you can do that then you can shoot a wedding. In other words, practice, practice, practice.
Another thing I would add would be don’t show all of the pictures you take. In other words don’t show them the ones that were out of focus, bad lighting, etc. Unfortunately you can’t really tell which ones are the bad ones during the wedding because the LCD viewer on a camera is not good enough to show such info, and secondly you really don’t have time to review shots during a wedding. Wait until you get home and look at it in Photoshop.
I would recommend shooting several weddings for free with friends to learn and practice. Or maybe even be a free “secondary” camera and then use those pics as part of your portfolio.
I shot my first wedding about a month ago - it was my sister’s wedding, and I was pretty stressed out about it. I got a colleague of mine to be the 2nd photographer, and we agreed to split work according to the lenses we had in our arsenal.
The following is some lessons learned:
If you have the possibility, agree up front with the bride and groom the style of shooting preferred: portraiture or photo-journalistic (or a combination). If combination, make sure you have a 2nd photographer and that you distribute lense ownership (long telephoto for candids, fast medium telephoto for portraits, for example). Whatever you do, don’t skimp on the number of shots (have enough memory cards, and shoot at least 3-4 shots for group pictures, in order to avoid the “closed eye” effects). This is one reason why I’d rather not shoot RAW, I wanna get as much burst as possible when shooting on high drive.
I personally prefer shooting a photojournalistic wedding. This means you need to get close to the action and get close to your subjects. Be sure to walk slowly, where dark clothing, and carry a minimum amount of equipment to be more mobile. Use a long zoom on at least one of your cameras (e.g. a 70-200mm F2.8) to take tight shots. Also be sure to capture the little details…
One thing I learned was to shoot with post production in mind: sometimes, an awesome effect is to shoot details in a scene, and other events around that scene, to compose a vignetted collage. A lot of the album design software available out there lends itself well to this approach (check this album out as an example: http://preview.picaboo.com/Webview/CoverPage.aspx?user=000000000000B5E85B&album=000000000000B61EE6)
I’m no expert but I do love photography. I bought a canon 20d a few years ago and can’t seem to put it down. Anway, I’m always looking for tips on how to best capture the moment. thanks for the ideas
Have to agree on the advice to avoid weddings until you become a very competent photographer. The best way of getting some experience is asking some pro if you can act as a second photographer - no pressure and gives you a chance to try out your skills and learn..
Tip #1: Ask yourself if you are really willing to take the risk that the couple will hate you rest of their lives.
People tend to have huge expectations for wedding photos and often shooting conditions in the weddings are not easy. So unless you have several years of experience in photography, pro-grade equipment and you feel really confident, leave it to the professionals. And as a rule of thumb I would also say: “If you need to ask help for it in the Internet, don’t do it!”
If I would be asked to do it, I would rather give them voucher to professional wedding photographer as a wedding present than do it myself.
I’ve “done” a couple of weddings, just as backup to the professional: mainly for the group shots, getting him to pose everybody up then pointing my lens over his shoulder.
And expose for the dress, nothing is worse than a bleached out Bride.
“And expose for the dress, nothing is worse than a bleached out Bride.”
Great tip!
Thank you!
wish me luck.. my sister has asked me to shoot her wedding this weekend. These tips are timed perfect.
when first couples meet you in yr studio to photograph their engagement/wedding, have a portfolio of yr previous best photos to show them because first impression is last impression. then hand over a brochure of visits/charges etc to finalise the deed. in brochure, if some of the best shots are included, it is well further for yr reputation. take couple away after the wedding in some good background and take beautuful shots-formal & informal- of them. if possible, keep and assistant to give fill light and other immediate helps while you are planning good poses and releasing shutter. don’t forget to take the tripod. in low light it will be of immense help. rest as u understand best.
I tried to translate the article to Danish (and abbreviate it a bit) - we are having at least three amateur photographers at our upcoming wedding here in Denmark. I thought they might like to have the list available in Danish :-)
Link: http://ulrikkold.dk/hoeyerkold/2007/07/10/en-hurtig-guide-til-bryllupsfotografer/
I shot my first wedding 2 years ago and everything came out great, but some of these tips would have come in handy then. Thanks for the pointers.
Leave it to the pros! People see a friends wedding album (done by a professional photographer) and they think that ANYONE with a camera can aim in the right direction and get the same results. Nothing could be further from the truth. This is multiplied in an outdoor wedding where proper metering changes from shot to shot. You can’t just point and shoot and expect your camera to know where you wanted PERFECT focus and PERFECT exposure. Today’s sophisticated cameras WILL give you perfect focus and exposure but it might not be focusing and metering where you wanted it too.
You don’t want a several hundred dollar white dress to look grey or the bride to look like she has a black eye because of shadows. You especially don’t want to deal with Bridezilla or worse Bridzilla’s mother.
Excellent tips here! Kind of surprised the number of negative comments to those trying to give this a shot! Not every couple has couple grand for a pro and may just be happy with their priceless photos taken by uncle Jorge :) It’s their choice who takes them just the same as who they are going to wed, so relax, and have some cake.
I think I’ve done everything in your list of tips except ONE – use of two cameras. Instead of using two cameras I only bring one but various lenses especially when I’m working outside my studio. Is this still a good thing to do?
Ulrik, I hope you have also at least one professional photographer there. You want your wedding photo to be perfect, don’t you?
These are awesome tips. I have been asked to shoot weddings, but have declined all due to the “panic factor” as well as the “amateur factor”! I think it is a great idea to step in as a back-up to gain some portfolio shots, but I think you have to be careful as to not step on the pro’s toes. These are all very helpful tips and offer wonderful insight, as do so many of the DPS posts, so thanks everyone who posted. I am learning SOOO much, it’s very exciting. Maybe someday I will be comfortable enough to shoot a wedding, but as for now, I’m not ready to deal w/ the wrath of bridezilla’s mom either!
I swore off weddings decades ago.
Did video a cousin’s wedding, but only to show mom who was in hospital.
Now, I am being nagged to shoot one.
I think the best advice above here was the suggestion - decide if you mind that couple may hate you the rest of their life.
Also, I know shooting. Not sure my old Olympus 35’s are up to it and I know my Canon “Powershot” isn’t.
Also, I hate the proofing and printing and all the stuff that comes afterward.
Think of that.
I am going to suggest if they can’t afford a pro to buy a bunch of “disposable” cameras and pass them out.
Yes, I am whining and whimpering.
About a week ago I had a friend’s sister contact me, thinking that I was a Wedding Photographer, regarding her Wedding. She eventually convinced me to be her Wedding Photographer since things fell through the cracks with her original photographer. So, in doing research I ran into this site and it really has helped tremendously..! I was up in the air with high res. jpeg vs. RAW and I’m now going with RAW and buying another Nikon D1x to make sure that I’m ready for the unexpected. I’ve been a Wedding Videographer for five (5) years but a photographer for about 17 years. Thank you so much for the tips..! They were extremely helpful, to say the least…! Thanks again..!
:)
-Louis
http://www.ForeverPlatinum.com
http://www.LouisTorres.com
New York, NY
These are all excellent tips!
My wife and I did wedding photography for 2 or 3 years, but let it go about 5 years ago. Of course, we were shooting film then - medium format, at that. One of the reasons we quit was because we over-shot so badly.
About a year ago, we sold most of the film equipment, keeping only the 35mm lenses in anticipation of eventually getting a DSLR. Then in December, I bought one. I haven’t shot with it a lot since getting it, but two weeks a go, I brought it along with me for fun. The B&G didn’t even know I was going to do it.
I was an usher, so I took it with me to the rehersal. Got some fun pics there. The groom, groomsmen and I showed up to the church early while the pro was with the bride at her house. I started off there, taking some fun individual shots of the groom with each groomsman.
Eventually, the Bride and the “real” photographer showed up. I purposely shot behind or to the side, kept quiet and made sure I was unobtrusive, but it took about 10 minutes before he got irritated and said something. I left him to do his thing whil I went off to find the groom agin. Got some nice shots of mom pinning the boutineer on the groom, then put the camera away until after the ceremony.
Before the reception, they did the group and family shots. I have to say, I was really unimpressed with what the pro did. I think he missed some opportunities to get some fun shots.
I ended up doing a little bit of my own thing, only to find him following my lead during the reception; like getting a shot of the rings in the bouquet.
Eventually, he was nice to me. And while I’m not saying I could have done a better job than he did, it was eye-opening to really see someone else’s style.
I really could have used some of the tips above to make my pictures a little better: I should have shot RAW (my flash didn’t recycle as fast as I would liked it to have during the reception), I REALLY noticed the beeping sounds of HIS camera during the ceremony, and if I had given it a little more thought before just showing up with my camera, I might have gotten a few better or more shots.
Great web site and great hints on wedding photos! I knew many of them but it always good to have it again. I’ve a question about how photographers and vido makers can coexist in the same wedding w/o tumbling on each other?
BEst Regards
I just visited her for the first time and won’t be back. To many insecure “pros.” I have been doing weddings for about 7 years and always encourage others to take the plunge. If you are a pro charging a couple of thousand dollars are you are threatened by loosing a shoot to an unknown $500 shooter you need to improve.
It is very rare that I see someone else’s work in the less than $1,000 range that compares to my work. I say more power to them as the $1,000 brides need pictures too. plus I have also found those “price minded brides” to be the most difficult.
I love to share tips and teach others and was hopeful this site was a place to share and encourage not brow beat and discourage.
Some comments are good in so much as shooting with a pro is great and the only fast way to get to the 2-4K weddings, but that still doesn’t mean others shouldn’t try.
When I started my time was free, I wanted to make sure they knew what they were getting. That first free wedding is still my best for referrals today. She loved my work and it made her day. I’m not free anymore and I can tell my new brides that you get what you pay for so if you want a pro I’m your guy. If you want to take a chance go ahead but know they won’t be the same.
Every time I loose a wedding(which is almost never) to a newbie I always offer my touch up work to the bride for a fee. You would be surprised of how often I make more than the shooter did and end up with more referrals from her.
Let’s encourage others not beat them up. When the $500 shooters become $2,000 shooters I’ll be a $5,000 shooter because I’m always learning from others and plan to stay ahead of the curve.
Competition is a good thing, I want to be pushed. That whats makes all of us better.
Jim
This shold be *REQUIRED* for professionals, too.
My brother’s in-laws hired the photographer (who
had TWO additional back-up photographers)for his
recent wedding. Too bad they did NOT read this list!
Most of the pictures were badly posed of people
who drank too much, shot into the sun (flare),
very few close-ups, then they ’stole’ MY shots,
and WORST OF ALL~~~NONE OF OUR SIDE OF THE FAMILY!!!
Thank goodness I brought MY camera, AND made lists!
I got pictures of relatives that came from around
the world, amazing candids, the bridesmaids at the
altar, and did NOT exclude the bride’s side of the
family!!!
Now everyone is begging me for my pictures, and not
buying many prints from the “professionals” who were
hired for the job. This really gives me the courage
to follow my heart, and go pro. I’ve studied and
practiced for years, won contests, been published,
and named “official photographer” for many people.
Just goes to show that even “pros” need to learn a
thing or two… ;->
Best wishes to all, ~VM~
Great tips. From my own experience, the first wedding is by far the most stressful but it does get steadily easier thereafter. Here’s some bonus tips I’ve picked up along the way.
1. Take a reflector and stand - you’ll find your group photos will work much better and whilst it’s a bit obtrusive it’s not as bad as setting up studio lighting.
2. Avoid flash as much as possible (unless using for fill outside). On camera flash strips is generallky unflattering.
3. When using flash buy an omnibounce diffuser to fit on top. They’re so cheap and the difference to your flash photographs will be noticeably better
4. I can’t emphasise the importance of investing in a fast lens. Light will be your biggest problem at a wedding and a lens which can deal with poor light will cut down the stress significantly! It will also cut down the times you need to use a flash.
5. During group photos say something to make them smile. ’say cheese’ is a definate no no but think of something original which achieves the same effect with the mouth. ‘Sausageeeees’ is quite a good one or if you’re feeling really brave ‘Al Quaiiiiiiida’!!
Ken - believe me, I WANT to stay away from the wedding I have to photograph tomorrow. I’ve never photographed a wedding before, and I have no desire to start. But the bride’s mother asked me to take pictures. I warned her that my photography typically focuses on architecture and is generally… hmmmm…. darker or scarier. But they insisted that as long as I don’t chop off any heads, they’ll be happy.
So, I’m very grateful for the timing of this tutorial. I will definitely keep it in the front of my mind tomorrow!
One of the best wedding presents we received was an album of unofficial shots taken by a friend of the family. Although we had an official “Professional” photographer do the expected family groups etc, enthusiastic amateur was free to wander around getting candid shots of guests who never make it into the standard group photos.
10 years later it is these photos that we have framed around the house and whose album we show to friends and remember the day by.
The Professional was only able to sell us the minimum number of reprints because they so poorly captured the spirit of the day when compared to the amateur efforts.
I agree that an amateur should steer clear of being the “Main” Photographer, but by relieving yourself of that pressure, you gain the freedom to offer an alternative view of the event which, as in my case, may be a more cherished and lasting record of the day.
Perfect timing. I will be covering my brother’s wedding next week. I had such a bad experience when i covered my elder brother’s wedding. I ruined about 7 rolls of film. Thank God for digital cams nowadays. I just hope i learned my lessons.
Great article! Thanks! I work as a minister, and so I won’t be taking pix at any weddings any time soon. (I have other things to do :-)
The couples I meet are usually in a total panic planning the wedding, because everything HAS to be perfect. I love your advice about embracing the things that go wrong. I wish everyone understood that those imperfections are part of what make the wedding into the beginning of life together.
You’ve explained that very well, and in language people can understand. I hope to share that part of this article with some couples in the future. Thanks again.
These are great ideas! As a Professional Photographer it’s always nice to be reminded of basics.
………..HOWEVER………..
I do want to just say to the bride or amateur photographer(I’ve been there too!)
that a wedding is a full day for most photographers and lots and lots of prep and scouting before-hand. Most phographers encourage and will step aside when aunts or grandma Mabel wants to take a pic or two of a set up (family or otherwise) but having a other photographer or amateur with the “whole set-up” (pro camera, flash, bar, ect.) can be very rude to the photographer you’ve paid for.(it can be like your boss bringing in someone off the street to do your job behind you) And cameras may set off our lights, or get in the way of important shots ! (i.e. walking down the isle or kiss) So, I encourage you to PLEASE
talk with your photographer about any plans to have a friend take side pictures BEFORE the big day!
Most Photographers want the BEST pictures for you! Let them be aware of your concerns before you hire them. I know that a good photographer can understand and will be able to work with what you want and what is possible in the time allowed. thanks!
I really wish that I had read this article before last weekend. I love to take pictures, and my sister-in-law suggested that I take her daughter’s wedding pictures. They were really looking for ways to cut costs. I was pretty nervous but I took some shots at the rehersal and got a feel of what shots I wanted to take. It was an outside ceremony in the late afternoon, so lighting wasn’t really a problem. I moved around quite a bit to get the shots of the bridal party, the dad and bride, the exchange of rings and the kiss. I was also looking for ways to not be in the way. After the ceremony, at the reception, my sister-in-law got everyone together for outside shots. We are in the city and we took photos in the backyard of a nearby business. We got permission, of course. It is a beautiful fence with some flowers and a couple of stone benches gathered around a centerpiece of flowers. Unfortunately, I realized too late after taking some pictures of the bridal party that there were telephone poles sticking out of peoples heads! After I realized that, I made sure to position people away from that area. Also, I asked my sister-in-law if she wanted date imprinting on these photos. Mind you, the wedding date was 07-07-07. She said yes. Well, the one really good one of my niece and her new husband has the date imprinted on her shoulder! I totally forgot to take the imprinting off for the more formal photos. I was the only photographer at the wedding, but I feel that I did a good job on some of the pictures and I learned from the experience. Also, since I am the bride’s aunt, the groom’s father suggested that someone take my picture for the album. And I really don’t like having my picture taken. I guess that’s why I am behind the camera. I am by far NOT a professional, but I would do it again for family, maybe friends.I just have a Kodak Easy Share digital camera with quite a few features. I don’t have any lenses or extra flash, but with some of the inside pictures it took a while for the camera to adjust to the light. But they turned out pretty well. I will definetly copy some of the better photos for a personal album. If someone asks you to photograph their wedding, just let them know up front that you are not a pro, but you will do your best and definetley get a list of who they want photographed. Just go with it and have fun. My family always tells me that I should take classes and become a pro. It is something that I have always wanted to do. We will see.
I do not want to sound pesimistic but it is alarming the number of amateurs who believe that they can do a great job at weddings. Weddings is a serious business and a very special occasion for the couple. Just remember that they are expecting the best from this particular day and that includes you as a photographer.
To learn wedding photography takes time and practice. My advise has always been to learn from someone who is already a professional. A great camera and an assortment of professional lenses will NEVER make a good wedding photographer.
Do not spoil the expectations of the couple. If you do not have the expertise my advise is to let a professional do the job.
over the years have been asked to do friends weddings and
always explained that i wasn’t a pro but would do the the
best job for them and if there was a pro there would introduce
my self to him and not get in his way and if you do your homework you should not have to many problems
Nice to hear what others have to say and good advice too!
I know how hard it was to be an amateur…lots of stress!
Ive been pro now for 5 years and I just wanted to say that I agree with comments from other Pros; It can make your job harder when amateurs and other photographers block the way
of shots. but what it really comes down to is class.
It’s very unpro and not very classy to show up at a wedding with a pro camera when your not the photographer, unless you have talked to the couple and the pro.
I have had lots and lots of this type of thing happen to me and only once has the amatuer came up and introduced himself and “asked” about shooting. I was happy to talk with him and show him some of my shots and “tricks”.
Next wedding you go to to practice shooting, I would suggest talking witht the bride and photographer first, I know I would appreciate it!
happy shooting to you!
Ken, like James says, “no guts, no glory.” My love for photography has grown, and I am now starting out on my business. I think it is unappropriate to tell people full out to stay away from it; I think it really depends on the person, their drive, passion, and creativity. Talent. I have now done 4 weddings, and with each one, you learn. You build a reputation. I went from having 2 weddings in 4 months to 4 this coming year! Word of mouth is what can really work in this industry, and I think that if anyone has the drive for it, and is willing to step out and try, you will always be surprised by what you can do! So if you are just starting out, go for it, because it may be something you really love and a great success, but you won’t know until you try!
Thanx!
This is a great check list - some of the things here I usually do, others I’ll start doing from now :)
i should first appreciate on the concern of the authority to circulate such beautiful article on wedding photography. i also appreciate on the responce of the real concerned people to make their voice. i do admit with ken thompson on the need to be professional before taking up such project. yes it is necessary because such event is one time event and does not come regularly.
however entire write up is possibly based on a type of wedding. but in a country like india and its continent there are differt cast and creed with a number of faith. it also differ from one federal to other. automatically the type of the coverage or documentation has to have different in nature. one needs to nurture in understanding the miniute to miniute programme of the happenings. above all the rituals that comes in between is very very important for the newly wedded couple in the sout asian countries.
This is great article and awesome…keep up a good work
consolidate and gathering all the wedding photographers.check it out at
http://www.weddingphotograherscentre.com
This is info that is useful.I have a friend in Austin who has been doing weding photography for years,and it’s a turn-on for him.I can see why(course,my piddling little experience-photo’d ONE wedding, a long time ago)Love to see new brides…so does he,and that’s precisely why he does it.
Darren, thanks for the tips. They are great. Would you mind if I posted them on my site? I will give you fill credit and a link if you have a site up.
Thanks again.
Hi,
My website is http://www.planmywedding.org/ (providing information on Plan My Wedding)
If you think your visitors may help from it, here is its link information
(link from content page or homepage will be much appreciated):
Title : Plan My Wedding
URL : http://www.planmywedding.org/
Description : Helps you with different wedding plans, locations, wedding budget, and other related information.
Let me know what do you think about this.
In return, I will add your link to my website within a day :
Warm Regards
Cheers
kirsten Bery
http://www.planmywedding.org/
E-mail: planywedding@gmail.com
Just a recommendation: offer disposable cameras on each table and allow your guests to get random, unedited shots.
As a bride-to-be and a lover of photography, I enjoyed this article, and the helpful comments afterwards too — in fact, even the bickering between pro and am was amusing! I think what it comes down to, for weddings and many other things, is that some people “have it” and some people don’t. Some pro photographers might be lousy at weddings, and some amateurs might just happen to have the knack for capturing the really great moments… or luck! But I would hope that brides wouldn’t put too much faith in luck though, and try to fit a pro photographer into the budget.
I was quite concerned about finding the right person for the photos for my wedding. But I had no idea how expensive a pro would be, and got really discouraged really fast. Eventually a friend of a friend was recommended, someone who is working towards becoming pro. I liked what I saw in her shots of people, and she demonstrated her photoshop skills too, and I’m feeling good about the choice and relieved about the price. I am glad I know to submit a shot list, though, because so much less can go wrong when there’s some kind of guideline!!
Anyways, the main reason I’m writing right now is because I just used this article to show my fiance that I am not totally nuts, and that making the shot list is something helpful, not obsessive!!! I just wanted to express my appreciation, so thank you. :)
I don’t know why you so called “pro” wedding photographers are even reading this. The article is called “tips for amatuers”, so why are you wasting your time surfing the web for tips for amatuers if you all are such professionals. Sounds like some people must be threatened by those of us wanting to try out wedding photography. Get over it, everyone has to start at some point.
also a great website for wedding supplies
http://www.thegiftmallonline.com
have a look in my own wedding blog..
by the way I like your blog..!! keep up
Great tips. I took my first wedding Photography about 3weks ago. I was stressed out but still needed to hide the stress from my family. My wife being the person she is saw it. This article gave me excellent tips which helped me a lot. The wedding pictures were awesome. And I have added two more weddings to my profile.
JUST A GOOD ADVISE:
A DISPOSABLE WEDDING CAMERA FOR YOUR WEDDING WOULD NOT BE A BAD IDEA…….
I especially like the part about setting expectations. Sometimes a little prevention can go a long way to making sure everyone gets what they want.
This is an awesome list of wedding photo tips. I loosely call myself and ametuer photographer (took some shots for friends at their weddings) and I will be printing this list out and trying to follow some of your tips at the next wedding I attend. Great post!
#4 is key. If you don’t prepare, it could be a complete failure. Also, always have a backup plan! Thanks for the list.
I really liked reading through your tips! I myself am an avid digital photographer and although I want to be the one in charge of the camera on my wedding day, I know I can’t be. To save money, I am going to try to round up some close friends that I trust with a camera to get the shots I want. It was good to read your tips so I can keep these in mind when I talk to my friends before the big day!
I just thought you’d like a little feedback on that end of the spectrum!
I think some of the “professionals” are not getting any business. Could it be because they charge an arm and a leg. Just because they call themselves “Pro” does not mean they are any good! If you feel you can shoot a wedding, then go for it. People like Ken, who try to scare people from doing weddings, probably did a really bad job and so are turned off by weddings. Everyone has to start somewhere. Suggest doing it for free just to start your portfolio.(why not, free party). Suggest getting a “pro” and to just use your photos as an additional, more photos the better! I say go for it!
The tips listed are great. I am an amatuer photographer and have done several weddings. I do not search out jobs but am asked to do weddings by word of mouth. This can be very stressful but my photos have always turned out great.I always let the bride/groom know that I am not a professional and try to stear them in the direction of a professional. I think a great photographer has “the eye”,meaning he has a gut feeling when he see a good shot and is excited to capture that moment. I find some of my best shots were not posed, but people just being human.
Great advice and tips.
Keep up the good work!
Rod
I wish this resource would have been available when I’ve started my wedding photography career.
Joseph
im 16 years old and i have been asked to be the main photographer for a wedding and im super nervice. can any one help its im 2 mounths im not bad at tacking pro pics i just have not done this be4
Chicken or the egg….is the old saying I would refer to as I accept wedding shoots. I know I can do the shoot and I charge at the lower end which more people can afford than the top end. I undertake weddings knowing the day is one of the most important for the couple. I use 2 of everything and prepare well in advance. Pre digital I accept would have been nerve racking as much as the first time you experience combat(I kid you not).
The title say’s it all!
“Tips for Amature Wedding Photographers”
I would like to offer a rebuttal to this. If by amateur you are referring to someone who only shoots occasionally and just acquired a DSLR, I agree. Not every amateur is an “uncle Bob” however, that just acquired a new DSLR. Many amateurs have years of experience and take the craft as seriously as a pro. Hiring a pro does not guaranty good results. I have seen many albums done by Pros that are terrible. They may get consistent results, but they are consistently poor. The term amateur or pro are not as important as the skill and experience of the photographer.
Nice back to fundamentals article.
The title say’s it all!
“Tips for Amature Wedding Photographers”
Darn, I suppose no professional ever starts out as a hobbiest or amateur photgrapher. They are born professional, making money at it before they can tie their first set of shoes. I have been shooting film for about twenty years, 35mm and medium formats and now I am shooting with a DSLR. Not much difference except that I make more money when I do a job. Not a lot of professionals do their own processing, too many actual shoots to worry about processing. I do know a lot of “amateur’s” who do a lot of processing and they can work circles around professionals in both the dark room and at an actual shoot. The term amateur is very, very misleading. Anyone can call themself a professional if they get paid for a job, that is all that professional means, getting “paid”. It does not mean that they are a competent photographer. A serious amateur is one who take the craft seriously. So in a word, chill on the “Pro’s” do it better. There are a lot of “fly by nighters” who consider themselves pros since they earn a living at it.
Thanks for this short but helpful assistance!
Sammyjojo2010,
RELAX! Remember that photography (no matter what type) is an art. What you feel is what is captured. If your worried about what formal shots to get search the net for some ideas. Don’t be afread to be creative and have fun. If your smiling it makes everyone relax.
Perfect timing. I will be covering my brother’s wedding next week. I had such a bad experience when i covered my elder brother’s wedding. Great tip!
Thank you!
Another tip might be - get all your formal photos done by the end of dinner so that you do not interfere in the party afterwards. I can’t tell you how many photographers have ruined the flow of a wedding by pulling 20 people out of the room (including bride/groom) in the middle of dancing. It just kills the party.
Good tip list for a starting wedding photographer. With regard to #7 I would just say to be careful not to spend toooo much time taking a picture of those centerpieces. Those shots are easier and more comfortable, so I think new wedding photographers gravitate towards staying with them too long… when they could be catching grandpa gettin’ down on the dancefloor.
Thanks for the great info and tips. I was a bit disheartend by the negativity from some. We all start somewhere, I am fully qualified and get paid well but still struggle to call myself a pro. My advice is do it for the love of it as long as you can, if you don’t believe in yourself no one else will.
I am sick and tired of pros thinking thay are the only ones who can take pictures at weddings. I got married 3 weeks ago and three friends who are like me ( always have a camera in hand) did my pictures and WOW they are wonderful they have captured the essence of our day, laughter and happiness. There was no group photos but they got the most wonderful images of the joy in peoples faces when they came up to congratulate us after. Three of us have a couple of wedding to do together in the next 6 months and these tips will be very helpful thankyou. I don’t think I ever want to be called a pro because it will never be my job, I plan to live my dream, my personal goal is to take pictures for those people who can’t afford to pay the huge prices these so called pros charge, lets be real about this I know how much it cost to print pictures, and these photographers are making a killing, and before the so callled pros start to whinge I know it drops off in winter but you still charge way tooooo much. Life is not about how much money we can make it’s about bringing happiness into other peoples lives.
very good, nice jobs for this tips :D
thank you so much for this great tips, I quite learn a lot from here :)))
Great tips to help out those amateur photographers. =)
i’m shooting my first wedding next weekend and now i feel a little more prepared. thank you!
Thank you for the tips! I’m shooting my first wedding in about a month and i’m super nervous. But I know that I can do this! While i’m no pro, I do consider myself to have a ‘nack’ to capture the moment.
These tips just helped assure me that I can do this!
So Thank You!!
I am not a pro but simply love being the photographer at weddings. My father was a professional photographer so its in my blood but he as long since passed away. Most of my weddings are referrals and I take my work incredibly seriously with reading as much as I can and keeping up to date with the changes. Every wedding I go to I ask myself “what am I doing” but I just love it so much that I am driven to this work with great satisfaction at the time of handing over the happy couples preview album. I have improved over the years and created my own style by just getting out there and doing what I love to do rather than sitting at a desk slowly learning the techniques required for great wedding images or being some bag girl for a pro. We can offer creativity at a reasonable price for those couples that cannot afford such high prices. I do not compare myself with a pro and would not think of it but my clients are what drive me to continue in this wonderful world of wedding photography. I have just opened my very own studio at home and have already begun creating beautiful images for families. I do not intend on putting down my beautiful Canon 5D because I lack the ‘professional’ label.
I shot my first wedding years ago when I knew little about photography (I was a film student who happened to be taking a photography class when my friend got engaged). I did it for free and never saw the photos, since it was the time before DSLRs and the family moved right after their honeymoon. Since then I’ve become a freelance photographer, doing mostly concerts, but have been asked to do a few weddings and demand increases every year. I don’t charge professional rates, partly because my skill level is not up to what I would consider professional (which, in looking through online galleries of “professionals” in my area, seems to be pretty high in expectations compared to the quality they produce), but mostly because it’s not how I make my living so I don’t see the point in charging $50/hour for coverage and post production work. Like someone else said, just because a bride can’t afford a 2K photographer doesn’t mean she doesn’t deserve one. I have a great eye for framing and prefer the photojournalist style to a wedding than having a bunch of the traditional “perfect” poses. When the people contact me look through my gallery they can see the style I shoot in, and I don’t advertise my rates, so those that contact me do it because they like my work, not because I’m affordable. That’s just an added bonus.
I think no matter how many weddings I get under my belt I will still read and benefit from articles like this one. A lot of these I figured out through trial and error on previous weddings (the first wedding I did since going digital I didn’t have a shot list or a family coordinator. I got so wrapped up in trying to round up all the family members and get the big group shots they wanted before they had to go down to the reception that I didn’t get any photos of just the bride and groom together! Then they left the reception quickly, so there was never an opportunity to do them), but they’re good to have fresh in my mind before doing a wedding. Everything goes so quickly so the more prepared I am ahead of time the more smoothly things will go, even if there is a problem. And I think preparation plays a big role in the quality of the wedding photos. Many pros feel they can just waltz in and do the same thing they do at every wedding. A true artist will see each wedding as a new one.
I have photos taken of my children every 6 months, at different portrait studios. I’ve never ONCE asked the photographer if he/she knows wtf an apperture even IS, or to see their qualification! As long as the photos are nice, that’s all that matters! Someone can study photography for years and NEVER get the great pics that an AMATURE with agreat eye for detail will produce!
Sad, Sad Sad, and very SAD.
Shame on all you pro’s. There are ameratures, and then there are AMERATURES that will do a wedding on automatic mode.
Becareful of whom you are speaking of when you say ameratures.
I’m a amerature. However, I have the eye for framing a photo. I’m aware of how I want the picture to look. Also, I have the guts to do whatever it is to become a pro.
There is such a thing as natural talent. Also, there is such a thing as a pro making mistakes. It all balances out.
AMERATURES
If you have a passion go for it. Obviously you have great passion or you wouldn’t be here.
ADVICE FROM AN AMERATURE.
I am not a pro. But, I’m good at what I do.
1. So, in turn offer a price that is reasonable. I offer the dvd of “their” whole wedding for free.
2. Take test shots for lighting.
Raise your hand say loud and clear “this is a test shot, please ecnore the next few shots.” It works!
This takes a lot of guts but I do it. Of course, I only do this for the formal posed shots.
Sometimes, I have to do between 1 and 3 test shots.
NOW…..the pro’s don’t do this. But a good amerature knows what shot they want, and a few trial shots make for a GREAT photo. I know……because I do it.
3. Be there before the Bride, Groom, Event actually starts.
Pro’s do this. However……this is very important for us ameratures. Take your tests shots for lighting. Now, you are ready for the cake shot, the first dance shot, etc.
4. Feel confident. Don’t let the pro’s discourage you. If you have talent do it.
However, if you do not understand f stop, ISO, shutter speed. I would definitely consider studying more.
That is the only thing I discourage is an automatic digital amerature.
Best of Luck
Ms. Penny!
Thank you for this page. I came across it at the right time. I am a professional photographer as of the last few months, but have not done a wedding yet. My first one is tomorrow, no lie. I am doing it with a coworker, but still a little nervous. This page really got me back in the zone.. I am now ready to just have fun with it.. I am now confident and will rock this wedding, thank you…..
Alex..
Hi,
Thank you for all the great tips on wedding photography.
Two yrs ago I got married and we hired a professional photography. I was very disappointed with most of the photos. There were about 2 shots of full-length pictures of my husband and me…and I even made a list w/ some that said “full-length photos of bride/groom”!
Luckily we bought an SLR, Nikon D50 prior to the wedding and I gave it to one of my brothers to take. Looking at all the photos later I realized that my brother took the best photos.
When one of my brothers got married recently he asked me to be one of the photographers. He did not hired any photographers. I must admit that he has very nice photos. He said that he received many positive comments from his friends.
So, in the end being an amateur w/ some creativity and a good eye may not be so bad!
tt
I have done one wedding since I started taking pictures, it was outside country wedding, everyone says I done alright but I wished I could have done better, know my best friend wants me to take he daughter wedding, I feel uncomfortable to do this that I wont get the right shot, I know both of my kids have gotten marriade and I had paid for photographers and did not get the shots we wished we had. This will be in a church and I have not yet learned much about Raw yet, I do alot better shooting in automatic, do you all have any advise, Thanks
Awesome tips for wedding photographers. I have been in the wedding photography business for about three years now and still learned something new from your guidelines. Awesome stuff! Hopefully, some of my wedding pictures will be used for your future posts ;D Furious Photographers Blog
I think this is a great list of tips for wedding photographers. I follow most of these myself and I have been a pro wedding photographer for over 20 years. Thanks for posting <a href=”http://www.dubnoffphoto.com” title=”Dubnoff Wedding Photography”
Great tips even for pro wedding photographers! Wedding photography is something that must be carefully planned if you want great results.
Stumbled upon. Interesting article.
thanks. i loved your advice. this will surely be helpful for an “amateur” like me. :D
My Dad is a professional photographer, I thought it was funny one time when a family member wannabe photographer kept shooting their photo after all my Dad’s set up shots. He told her that she could shoot first next time, well of course she backed off because she did not know how to set up cute shots. Great way of handling this situation!
thanks for this great advice and checklist. for anyone thinking of asking a friend / non professional to be their principal wedding photographs, it highlights the importance of proper planning and should be a good basis for discussion.
I appreciate the info and found much of it correct. However I am a professional wedding photographer for 14 years now. There were many comments above concerning the price of a professional. Most wedding photographers come in anywhere from $500 up to $5000.00. There is a price range for everyone. The average photographer spends 40 hours of the studios time to finish one wedding. They are providing income for employees and family. They must pay taxes and business liscese as well as having insurance in case some one gets hurt at the wedding( tripping over a light stand etc). We also have ins to cover legal expenses in case something happens to the image files. ( far and few between but it can happen). Not to mention the everyday expenses of business such as building,computers,updates,paint,electric,new cameras( over one hundred thousand images on my camera it is only 2 years old). I work hard long hours for very little income. Please talk your friends into trusting this once in a lifetime event to someone that will make it happen for them. A professional shows up with 2 assistants and 20 thousand dollars of equipment not to mention all the back up gear needed. There is only one chance to shoot a wedding the next day is to late.
I should mention that there is a lot of knowledge needed for posing, lighting, and being able to use more than the program mode to be able to conquer the ever changing lighting and room environment at a wedding ( not to mention the many different personalities. After the flowers die the food is eaten the dress is in a box in the attic all that is left is a beautiful marriage and the professional photos to show it.
most photographers will work with you if you wish to shoot images during the wedding to provide a small scrap book or something as a gift for the bride. Just let them know you are there to work with them and not jeopardize there sales etc. They will probably stop during the meal and answer any photo questions you may have ( pros love photography as much as the hobby world). This will release you from the full responsibility and still ensure the bride gets a great coverage of her wedding and keep your friendship with her.
If you are considering a professional career on Photo check out PPA.com or FPPonline .org or TAPPA.com for the professional association to help you get up to speed for pricing, technical info and so much more. I am a member of all of them and very active.
I’m an amateur photographer. By the way, Mr. Moorman can I have your email address coz I badly need some adviceif it’s okay?
thanks
I’ve been asked to do two weddings this summer. I’ve taken wedding photos and grad photos in the past and have tried to convince the brides to go with the pros. My services are coming free as these are friends. I’ve done a lot of research, practiced and will practice more before the first wedding this in two weeks as well. I’m bringing 3 cameras and my 20 yr old daughter who is very good at setting up shots is also helping.
I’ve met with the bride ahead of time and showed her a couple of hundred different shots and she’s chosen the ‘must haves’ along with the traditional shots. I’m looking forward to it with a little anxiety, but she knows that I’m not pro but she likes the work I’ve done in the past.
I am an amatuer with a love of photography and weddings.
I started out sitting in a chair in the first row so I wouldn’t disturb the event but my husband encouraged me to move more. I now go to the practice rehearsal (yes and extra 3 hrs of my time) and walk through my shots at the same time they are walking through the ceremony. I hide behind the piano, then when they close their eyes to pray I run to the back of the room, change lenses and get close ups of the rings and wait for the exit. I know where I am going next so I don’t miss many shots. No one even sees me as they are so focused on the bride & groom.
I get a list and make sure that I get some cute shots of people and many candids (I use a longer lens so they are unaware I am watching them.) I take the groom only shots before the wedding to save time. I have my favorites that show a lot of emotion, like the dad coming into the bride room before the ceremony and they hug and cry, the bride pinning the corsage onto her grandmother, and of course the look on the grooms face when he sees her coming down the isle.
I charge nothing except the cost of the materials. My friends truly could not afford anything more, and they get a lot of very nice shots for the price.
I will some day know enough to be considered pro level, but I hope it doesn’t take away my joy!
This for me is timely, I have a wedding to shoot in August of this year, and I have never done weddings as the main photographer.
These tips have given me the confidence I need to do this, Thank You!
Keep the tips rolling!
I would like to pose a question to the critics: when is one classified a “Professional?” this word is misused in everyday life when in essence it’s simply getting paid to acheive a goal… wheather you’re a family friend getting paid for the photos or a distant stranger of recommendation, i believe that if one builds up their portfolio to thier own personal standard the rest is up to the couple… any couple who likes ones style. please dont anti-encourage aspiring wedding photographers that you, yourselves once were.
I run a wedding website design business and you guessed it - the site is only as good as the photos people use on the site. Some of these people need help! Being a bit of an amateur photographer myself, these tips are excellent - if only I could get to some of my wedding website clients and take their photo’s, at least pre-wedding - their wedding websites would have much more of a “wow” factor! Brides and grooms take note of the tips above before you start designing your wedding websites :)
Looks like a good plan.
Have fun and take great photos.
But first before you go and shoot a paid wedding go shoot many free ones so you can learn how to deal with everything like dark reception lighting, Outdoor bright sunlight weddings.
Before you shoot any weddins you should know your camera and equipment inside and out. Do not just put your camera in the auto P mode and expect good photos. Yes you can at times shoot in this mode if you know how to use the exposure comp functions of your camera.
Do not charge money till you are 100% ready.
Good luck its a business not a just a fun thing to do.
Thanks for the tips, not a “pro” but am working towards a bright future in photography. I take pictures of my own children and at family gatherings, fiestas, etc. I was asked to be the main photographer in an upcoming wedding in August, all the tips that were given I wrote and am making a list. I also have a second person to take photos. I am nervous but am confident that everthing is going to be ok.
thanks for these! they will help out a lot when i go down and take pictures for my moms best friend’s second wedding :) i was asked to be the photographer. these tips will be great.. :)
Hi,
I am one of those “Amature” photographers,
I am a fully qualified florist with 12+ years in the industry,with experience of working in different contries.and rather demanding brides (mothers :-) )
I have first hand knowledge of how importent it is for the bride and groom to have there day go perfect, even proffesionals (qualified ie, degree or masters) can get it wrong on occasions, but as a amature the chances of getting it wrong is on the whole higher. Having said that I my self a “Amature photographer” offer my services as a photographer
I started with basic portraits and found people asking me to cover other events such as confirmations and indeed weddings..when I talk to a possible bride i insist on having two talks, the first at least 6 months before the weeding (sooner the better) Here I inform the couple that I have no formal training or education within photography and tell them that if they are just a little unsure they need to hire a pro.I also bring with me a selection of my work.
End of the day as long as the Bride and Groom know the full and whole story, its is the Bride and Groom who decides.
And for the spare camera, batteries, lenses, remember if you need it make sure you bring two of it, all hardware can fail, batteries can die lenses can get scratched/broken. I have had more work through word of mouth than from any other advertising / webside. Good luck to you all.
P.s sorry if my English spelling is not so good, I am Norwegian and live at the moment in rainy Bergen
It’s a little daunting to be in the company of so many wedding photography specialists (not being one). When it comes to the wedding photographer I have one and only one comment. I would hope they never would cramp the experience of enjoying the reception to stop the action and pose the attendees during open dancing or the bride and groom during the wonderfully spontaneous moments of cake cutting, and garter and bouquet segments. I hope this entry is not irrelevant to the rest of this blog’s content.
Great article. This Romanian magazine stole your article. It’s translated into Romanian word by word. http://www.photomagazine.ro/photomagazine/revista.php?categ=pont
In the magazine is the rest of the article.
Thanks Alin
Hello! As a minister, I have conducted hundreds of weddings. Most have been seamless and beautiful, but there have been nightmares - most often because of insensitive photographers. Here are my tips to add to the mix:
1. As a matter of courtesy, contact the minister in advance of the wedding to inquire about guidelines for wedding photography during the ceremony. Make sure the couple know the rules too. You can’t be blamed for not getting shots that you are not allowed to get.
2. Don’t try to argue with the minister. Remember that the church is the ship, and they are the captain. A cranky minister can ruin a wedding almost as fast as an insensitive photographer.
3. Remember that you are not invisible. Please don’t block the view of the guests during the ceremony, and never ever ever block the groom’s view of the bride as she is entering. I know you want a shot of the bride entering, but please please please don’t crouch in the aisle or make the bridesmaids step over you.
4. When you are asked not to move around during the ceremony, it is because it is distracting. The minister is concentrating on the couple, and on the flow of the service. They are also keeping an eye out for fainting attendants, uncles suffering strokes, and bums walking in off the street for a hand-out. Making sudden moves places their attantion on YOU.
5. Most ministers are humans. Therefore, they cannot read when they are blinded by flashes.
6. Think of the wedding ceremony as an hour of fine theatre. You would never dream of walking on to a stage or joining the actors. Keeping a respectful distance will earn you the gratitude of everyone.
#20 is what makes this industry so much fun. I am not a wedding photographer, but I do work in the wedding industry. I love photography so this list is very helpful, but expect th unexpected is definitely a great tip. I have seen fights, weddings that weren’t at the last moment, and as always the one REALLY drunk guest, which makes any wedding an expected surprise.
You must have fun, it helps all the subjects to also enjoy, what should be a joyous occasion.
These are all great tips (as one can notice by all of the responses). I also think that simply “second shooting” at a few weddings with an experienced wedding photographer will truly advance one’s learning by eons! Because wedding photography is something that you only have one shot at getting right, it’s important to be as well prepared as possible. A shot list can be very helpful starting out and the photographer DEFINITELY needs to have at least one backup camera, if not more!
And tip #13 is something that is VERY IMPORTANT but not that widely practiced. Showing images at the reception really gets people excited about your work and exposes your work to even more potential clients!
Great stuff as always, DPS!
Hi All!
Great Tips and advice! I say read, learn, practise and go for it! If you fail to plan….you will fail.
Do any of you have any sites that show some different Wedding shots? Something special?
OMG!!! I am getting so many mixed signals from this website! I read through the top of this page then scrolled down here and am now seriously confused. I’m amateur, a friend from work asked me if i wanted to come to her sisters wedding for a bit of a practise, they only have family snaps due to lack of money and now you have all scared me half to death! I have took on board all the 21 tips but i feel really disheartened for reading this :(
About the continuous shooting we must take into consideration that the ISO will almost automatically goto between 400 and 800 and the pictures will lower in quality due to “grainyness”.
Hi, all. - I’m not sure when this was written, but this was a great article, as I am an aspiring ‘pro’- and want to specialize in weddings. At this time, my fees are based on my lack of experience, and I do make sure that my clients understand my current skill level.
That being said, to the Pros who say to be cautious and upfront if booking a wedding as an amateur, I agree. I think that honesty is always the best policy. No one should misrepresent themselves to take someone’s money (Pro or not). However, where I disagree is where the comments turn negative and condescending. So, three points follow:
1. If you negative folks are truly professionals, then how about showing some class ( as some did) by giving instructions and suggestions along with your opinion?
2. Did anyone notice the title of the original posting was tips for *amateurs*? Going a little further did anyone notice that the poster said he would leave the technical details to the *pros* meaning we’d like your input to help us improve?
3. This blog is called Digital Photography *School*. How would you like it if someone showed up at a school you attended, and attempted to discourage you from pursuing your chosen course of study? Remember everyone has a beginning……
I so could have used some tips in June lol…I do portait photography mainly with some landscape. But a friend begged me to do her wedding because with them both being on disablity they absolutely had no money for a “wedding photographer”! I did the wedding as a gift for them! I just did not want to be blamed if the pictures weren’t what they wanted! But I had her make a shot list so I guess I did something right! I gave them a dvd of the photos (was very little post work necessary except under the trees! I did know to use my speedlight for fill flash) I did shoot in raw because I was so worried about the lighting for an outside wedding! To my surprise there was an envelope with $100 in it in the mail the next week! They loved the photos! Nope have not changed my mind! I don’t like doing weddings! Rather be there as a friend and enjoy their day with them!
Hi!
My personal CEO’s (the wife) best friend asked me to photograph her wedding next week. I was so excited, because I have never done it before and have no idea what I’m doing (as far as the wedding stuff goes). I asked the friend if I could bring my sister, who IS a pro, to help out, and she said, NO!
The wedding is very small, and only for close friends, which is the secondary reason for not wanting a pro wedding photographer there (primary being the cost-I am doing it for free).
I am bringing a Pentax K-1000 (an old, fully manual camera) with a great 35mm lens and an OK 70-210. My sister told me to bring 400 ASA color film, and have the photo service put everything on disk, as well as prints. She said I could get color AND B&W from the film. She uses an album company in New Zealand that I will also use.
I am also bringing our Canon A540, and the friend’s better Canon digital camera. I am planning on shooting most of the staged shots with the film camera, and most of the candid shots with the digitals. I am trying to find someone to give the backup digital to, so they can walk around and take a lot of candid shots.
The digitals have a built-in flash, which I am familiar with and will use as needed. I asked my sis about getting a flash for my 35mm camera. She knew I had never used one, so she told me not to buy or try and use one, as she knew I would have no time to practice. She told me I will get better photos doing what I know to do and not trying to figure out the flash-stuff at the same time I’m shooting.
So, thanks for this site-it’s helped a lot!
I am nervous, but I know I’ll do OK, and the bride and groom won’t be pissed if their photos aren’t million dollar ones, so I’m OK there.
Good luck to all of you, pro and amatuer’s, shooting your weddings.
cliff
DTW
(Wedding in YYZ.)
What a amazing lesson, I really really enjoyed that. I’ve done a lot of wedding but I’ve never really had formal training I pretty much learned on my own, so getting extra lessons like this is awesome!!! I will book mark this and keep coming back, I just love this site!
Ricky
In April I took pictures of my best friends wedding. We had referred him to the photog that took pix for ours 2 years prior. He wanted too much money and as a couple that didn’t have the money, my friend called me and told me it was too much. I told him not to worry, I’d grab the cameraS, yes plural, one digital and one a regular film camera (but not with all the fancy lenses). I even got to take pix of the rehearsal because my hubby was the best man. Playing on the fact that my own photog missed alot of shots for us I made a list, both paper and mental, of shots that would be needed. When I presented the 150+ pictures to the bride and groom already in a photo album, with negatives (reg film) and the index for the digital pix, there were tears because the pix turned out beautiful. No stress, no problem for me. Hey pros, are you scared you might have some competition out there from us everyday people? Get over it, because some of us have a natural ability to photograph not just things, but people and events too!
oh btw, i did the pix for free as a wedding present in exchange for a few of them for a portfolio and already have another friend requesting me as a backup to the professional that they hired.
One thing I can give you guys as a tip, and I learned this the hard way it to AUTO EXPOSURE BRACKETING all your wedding shots, you see the pros do it all the time, and I learned my lesson so now I always set a 1/2 or full stop both ways, just for insurance. I feel much more confident when I know I have a few shots to work with. Shoot in RAW if you can also.
GREAT SITE, love talking about this stuff!
Do not forget to learn to use off camera flash do great dance floor photos.
All of this advice would have been great at my first wedding! My battery went dead way faster than I expected. Although my sister was helping me, so she saved the day for me. The biggest thing of all was I for sure didn’t know what to expect when I started. Getting lots of advice before you get into a wedding saves so much stress!
Heather Hornbeak
Cedarway Photography
http://www.cedarway.org
While it’s a good idea of you to post these tips for the beginner, I do think the best way for ‘amatuers’ to learn is to shadow a professional tog.
There is just too much that can go wrong on the day for an inexperienced amature to handle.
As the saying goes - wedding photography is not expensive, it’s priceless!
Wow!! Great article. I have my first wedding in 2 and a half weeks…I am an ameture and I am telling all those ametures out there, don’t let these negative ‘pro’s’ dishearten you… I was scouted by a great photography duo to help them expand their busines..Little old me with no professional experience and a basic point and shoot (now have a top of the range DSLR with several lenses). Tell me how an ameture can’t do it, when even pro’s (who give the little guys a chance to grow and learn) ask for their help??
Thank you for the tips, I have sat here for an hour reading in awe of all your opinions and advice.
I wish there were less head in the cloud, delusions of grandured photographers out there, to help us ametures get into the business.. Like others have said, you were all ammetures once too!
So I’m new to wedding photography and overall photography. But I was asked to take portrait photos and to do a wedding for a friend go figure. I told them that I had never taken photos of a wedding but have been into photography especially combat photography as I am a combat veteran here in Iraq. So the thing is, people (US Army soldiers) who have been asking me to take their photos well can’t exactly hire a $1200 photographer. We simply don’t make enough money. What can they do? Pro photographers only insist they can take photos for friends and family because well they want the competition for themselves and they do get a lot of money. Me I can take quite good photos for being well free and the people who ask me already know I’m not professional but they are happy that I can still take nice photos.
A professional photographer allowed me to co-shoot a wedding, plus he and I became friends.
It’s a good thing I was there, otherwise the cake eating and bouquet toss would have been missed, but were captured at 7 fps.
I used a Fuji S100fs with available light at ISO 3200. The bride and groom are personal friends, so I gave them a free photo CD, but everyone who saw my images were highly pleased.
I also used editing software to create special effects which further enhanced the images.
The most important tip I could give about wedding photography is to have fun and be someone the bride and groom like being around. You are their companion for a very special day and they deserve support, joy and calm.
Try and keep sarcasm and self-concern to a minimum. You’ll find the families and wedding party will notice, too, and that can be a great source of referals.
Brooke
http://www.slicephotography.ca
I think the biggest tip I can give any Amature Wedding Photographers is to second shoot with a Pro - it’s the best learning experience you will ever get, and once you are 100% sure you are at the correct level - then go out on your own - Do not gamble with a couples memories… it cannot be redone…
I think all amateurs and pros in this forum have made great points. It’s a great insight to professional wedding photographers as well as amateur wedding photographers. I know we have enough photographers but no one should ever try to scare anyone trying to help someone else out. Do mention the expectations, pressure, and issues they may encounter but try to do it in a positive manner. Maybe Joe blow will end up shooting the wedding anyway because the bride and groom don’t have money for a professional $5,000 wedding photographer. I know $5000 is a little exaggerated (MAYBE FOR AN “ALL DIGITAL PACKAGE)for a basic package but some couples are just trying to do the right thing in getting married, others really don’t put that much money into the wedding photography. As professionals this is something we must all consider, not all people have the kind of money we charge for our professional photography. Just thought I’d throw it out there because I think the worst thing you can do to someone is discourage them from helping someone who thinks they maybe competent. If the bride and groom choose this “amateur” to photograph their wedding, as long as the “amateur” is honest and true to the bride and groom, then the responsibility is ultimately theirs if they’ve seen your work and/or know you’re an “amateur.” But please, don’t be discouraging, discouraging people from doing this can actually scare someone and stop a dream that has just begun………….something to think about……..Check out my website and blog for more of my advice and professional photography:
Here’s a http://www.WallotDigital.com.
Here’s a 1venturacountyprophotographer.wordpress.com.