I have a dilema, not sure what to do

[audreylynn3]

I'm in the very beginning stages of starting a photography business, and I have been assisting an established wedding photog this summer. I love what I'm doing, but I know I have alot to learn. I received an email today from an old friend of my sisters (and our families have known each other for years), stating that she's getting married July 3 and cannot get ahold of the photographer she had lined up for her wedding. She's basically starting to panic, and asked if I would be willing to do the pictures for her. This makes me verrrry nervous - with weddings there are no re-dos, so that's alot of pressure.

The other problem she's facing is that she is getting married in a small town, with very limited photographers, in the middle of wedding season. She's not sure if she can even find anyone else on this short of notice. My question, then, is this: should I accept, explaining that I'm not a wedding photographer at this point, and only if she's tried unsuccessfully to find someone who is? Although, if I say I can't do it, I feel bad that she may end up with nothing.

Any advice is really appreciated!!!! (PS You can see some photos I've done of weddings on my Facebook page)

[wannabephotographer]

Audrey, from what I see on your facebook account, I think you've got some talent. You would probably get better with a few more under your belt but I think you've got a good eye. Maybe you'll miss a shot or two but just explain to her your situation and if she's fine taking that risk then go for it. FWIW, I think you'll do a great job.

[Cmoon]

I think you should have more confidence in your talent. From what I can see on your facebook page your friend will be pleased with the results.
At the very least you can explain and have her make a choice. Let her see your work and go on from there. Good Luck Audrey!

[Niresangwa]

This is your chance Audrey! Things happen for a reason...

[LeeR]

I looked at your flickr photos and I think you have a good eye for this. I'd certainly be happy to have you along on one of my weddings. I suggest you put all your cards on the table explaining that you have had some experience but are not ready to call yourself a pro. Show her your work. Explain that there is a good chance you will make some mistakes, some of them big. Then let her choose. If she still wants you then do all you can to prepare. Scope out the venue ahead of time. Talk to the minister about rules of conduct. Create a plan for every emergency you an imagine.Finally, have a good time; knowing that your are shooting the first shots for you new portfolio!

[SusanH1970]

Can you recommend the photographer you've been assisting?

[audreylynn3]

Thank you all so much for the encouraging words! I did reply to her, stating that I'm flattered she thought of me, and while I'm not a pro, if she's willing to take a chance on me, I'd do it.

Susan, that was my first thought, but 1) the bride lives near my family, and the photog I assist is 4 hours away, where I live now, and 2) his wife is due to have a baby July 4, so I don't think she'd like that very much!

I'll post an update as soon as something happens!

[dakwegmo]

If what you can provide would be the difference between her not getting any professional quality shots, and getting the shots you can do, why not go for it? In the very worst case, she ends up with no professional shots, which is where should would have been anyway, and in the best case, you give her a bunch of a high quality shots that she'll share with her friends who might be calling you to do more. Even if it's referrals to the photographer you assist regularly, he's likely to appreciate you all the more for generating business. This seems like the perfect opportunity to do something like this.

[Linda Key]

I think you've made the right choice. This is the way I got started in Wedding Photography. A friend asked - I had an anxiety attack - told them if you are willing to take the chance and we will still be friends afterwards - did it at cost so I could get the experience and start a portfolio...been doing Weddings for 10 years (still having anxiety attacks) Enjoy yourself...can't wait to see pictures afterwards.

[Loose_Canon]

Originally Posted by Linda Key

I think you've made the right choice. This is the way I got started in Wedding Photography. A friend asked - I had an anxiety attack - told them if you are willing to take the chance and we will still be friends afterwards - did it at cost so I could get the experience and start a portfolio...been doing Weddings for 10 years (still having anxiety attacks) Enjoy yourself...can't wait to see pictures afterwards.

My thoughts too. Do it free or cheap to shoot the wedding while retaining all rights to all photos. Sell prints/CDs/DVDs at market value after they've seen your pix. It's a win-win deal.