Doing a Wedding for the first time

[djlegion]

Here in a month, I'll be the main photographer for a good friend of mine's wedding. I need some good suggestions.

[Jamfke]

I'm a noob in photography, so I can't give you any tips, but I'm sure that some of the others will be along to help out soon. You might want to mention what sort of equipment you've got so they can give you specific ideas on how to utilize it.

Good luck on your shoot!

[Chip]

The 5th topic or so at this thread should cover a lot of what you seek. Good luck.

[candleman]

welcome

you may want to be more specific.. or you may get a response like:
"you need a camera.. and you should probably take pictures too... yeah.. that would be good."

[oldwolf]

Originally Posted by candleman

"you need a camera.. and you should probably take pictures too... yeah.. that would be good."

+1

and don't do it if you've never done one before and you want to remain friends

[PnwGuy]

Have a second shooter. Have an extra or two of everything. Go to the rehearsal and know the plan and make a plan. Make sure time is allotted for group shots etc. Shoot Raw. Know how to use your flash.

I did my first wedding a month ago. It was a last minute request. I agreed to do it only with the understanding that I was making absolutely no guarantees on anything. :-) I was still nervous though.

I showed up for the rehearsal and created a basic plan but pretty much had to wing it on the wedding day as my "plan" quickly fell apart.

I made a few bucks but I was exhausted. The day after I figured I'd never do another wedding. Now that I've recovered I think I'd do another one, but I would definitely do things differently. I guess that's called experience.

Good luck and take water and something to eat for energy. Comfy shoes too.

[AnnaV]

Also try to do a pre-wedding shoot - it will give you an idea of the kind of photos the bride likes (and believe me, she is the one you need to impress )

Also, check where the ceremony is, and what you can use and where you can stand - for example, lots of churches won't allow flash, some will only let photographers stand right at the back, and some won't allow photography at all!

Best to know in advance....

[fletch]

You need to explain why you are doing the wedding. Are you doing a favour as the couple can't afford a photographer? Are they just trying to save a few bucks? Have you offered as you think you are good enough? Be detailed and explain why you said yes as the response to this will greatly affect how you query is responded to. Ranging from "back out now" through to helpful advice on hiring lenses and using a flash.