Photography Skills Tips for Wedding Photographers

A wedding ceremony is a significant event for couples. Therefore, as photographers, it is essential to capture all the great moments during this important occasion. From wedding preparations to the marriage celebration itself, there are some photography rules that you can apply to create the perfect shots.

 

Wedding Photography Tips

If someone hired you to be their wedding photographer, it is crucial to give it your best shot. Here are some tips that can maximize your skills as a wedding photographer:

1. Avoid deleting pictures. You may have taken some photos that are a bit blurry, dark, or not the best looking overall. Even if you captured images like these, try not to discard them because these photos may be useful in the end. Know that these photographs can be manipulated later so try to avoid deleting pictures. 

2. Avoid irrelevant noises. To be more professional, try not to cause unwanted noises in the event. The wedding is a solemn occasion for couples, so try to avoid unnecessary noises such as camera beeps.

3. Back-up your files. It is important to keep a back-up of your files onsite and offsite. It is one of the things that you should consider when it comes to file management. Incidents such as having an SD card crushed or lost might happen. As a result, you might lose all the files in that SD card. It is better to be prepared in times like this and always have a back-up. 

4. Be more attentive during the event. Weddings are usually busy events. It is likely that there is going to be a lot of people, more often in the reception area. Some people might be focused on their own business, from chit-chatting to their relatives and friends to roaming around the vicinity. Focus on the event and try not to be distracted because you might miss some crucial moments, such as smiles during the couple's dance.

5. Be more creative when shooting the details. The small details in the wedding such as the rings, dresses, and even flower arrangements can make the wedding album more meaningful. You can enhance your creativity by browsing through wedding magazines or watching tutorial videos. Try to consider practicing your photography skills by taking photographs of the things around you.

6. Consider group shots. Some couples may have a long list of guests, and it might take you a long time to take photos of all the visitors who have attended the wedding. To save time, you may consider taking photos of the guests in groups. When doing so, use a high angle to fit everyone in the camera frame. You can also make use of ladders or climb in high places to include all the guests in the shot.

7. Consider taking photos outdoors. Shooting outdoors can provide you with a well-lit setting (if the weather and time allow it). You don't have to bring lights and other necessary equipment since you can use natural light. If you need to shoot indoors, then make sure to get as much light in the room as possible. For most of the photos, avoid using flash since it can cast unwanted shadows and cause eye reflections.

8. Collaborate with the couple. No matter how skillful you are as a photographer, you may not be able to satisfy them if you have missed their preferred shots. This is why it is vital to meet with the couple a few times before the wedding and discuss the different photos and angles that they would like to get during the event.

9. Feature the reactions. Looking at the photograph is one way to relive the moment. The couples would surely love to reminisce their wedding, so try to select the best pictures. Capture the faces of people who are enjoying emotional moments during the event like when the couple kiss and the exchange of wedding vows. Consider the reaction of the groom as the bride walks down the aisle. You may also take photographs of the audience as they step into the venue.

10. Have a photography assistant. If you will attend a big wedding celebration, then it is recommended to have another wedding photographer. Having a second photographer gives you less hassle. Also, you may not need to change the camera lens since, for instance, you may focus on formal shots while your assistant can do the candid shots.

11. Make use of different perspectives. From low to high angles, you can use different perspectives to create more dramatic scenes. Instead of taking "normal" shots, try to be as creative as possible.

12. Prepare all the necessary equipment. It is vital to be prepared for the wedding day to avoid the hassle of recharging batteries or leaving essential items. Make sure that you have packed all the necessary equipment, including cameras, extra batteries, chargers, SD cards, and other types of lenses.

13. Shoot in raw. Taking photos in RAW makes it easier for you to manage the pictures in the editing process. Because the details in the photos are not compressed, it gives the editing software more data to edit upon, therefore, allowing a better editing job overall. 

14. Use different lenses. Although it may be challenging to switch to another lens, you may find it useful when taking photographs. Try to shoot with a wide-angle lens for candid shots and longer lens for other pictures.

15. Visit the wedding location. Scouting the area first before the big day can help you find the best photography spots. Knowing the perfect places to take photographs can also benefit you when envisioning some creative shots.

 

Being a wedding photographer is both a privilege and a responsibility. The couple entrusts you to preserve their best memories by taking good photos during their wedding day. It is a perfect chance to tell a beautiful story through pictures. This is why you will need to make extra effort to achieve amazing results. Photography requires knowledge and skill. Continuous practice together with sincere passion and dedication can make you a skilled wedding photographer in no time.