A wedding is a day that a bride and groom look forward to for months (if not years). It is a celebration of their love and union, and it’s an event they want to remember in all its glory. It can be a daunting task to capture stunning images on such an important day, but it is possible with the right techniques and know-how.
There are many different wedding photography styles, and each one has its advantages and disadvantages. Some are more classic and traditional, while others are more candid and documentary-style. Regardless of what style you choose, there are some essential tips that all photographers should keep in mind.
1. Take a lot of photos!
This may seem obvious, but it is crucial to have enough memory space on your camera to store all of the potential shots. Wedding days are chaotic, and there will be lots of unforeseen moments that you need to capture. To ensure that you have enough space, invest in a high-capacity memory card. Also, it is a good idea to get a second card for backup in case the first card fails.
- Don’t delete any of the images right away.
Once the shoot is over, it can be tempting to immediately delete the photos from your camera. However, this can be a big mistake. It is much better to save every photo, even if it’s not perfect. Then, once you’re home, you can review and evaluate the shots. Eventually, you’ll find the ones that work best.
3. Pay attention to the light.
Lighting is everything in photography, and it’s especially important for weddings. Use natural light to your advantage by posing your subjects in warm, soft light and taking pictures with dramatic shadows. Make sure you have a flash available as well, just in case.
4. Bring a second photographer if you can.
Having a second photographer can be a lifesaver at a wedding. It allows you to focus on the more classic, formal shots while also capturing all of those little candid moments that will be remembered forever. Bringing in a second photographer can also help ease the pressure of feeling like you need to nail every shot yourself.
5. Get creative with your angles.
Wedding photos tend to be taken from a standard eye-level angle, but it’s always fun to try something different. You could frame your shot with a beautiful doorway or archway, for example. Or, you could climb up high or go down low to get a unique perspective on the moment.
6. Be ready for anything.
As a wedding photographer, you have to be ready for anything on a wedding day. Whether it’s the weather or unexpected guests, you need to be able to adapt to whatever comes your way. This is why it’s important to prepare ahead of time by creating a shot list, scouting the venue beforehand, and having backup equipment in case something goes wrong.