Professional wedding photography 101
While I have been “official” photographer at anniversaries, showers, and weddings, I’ve yet to be paid for these services. That makes me a mere highly sought after amateur, who takes fabulous photos! While becoming the best wedding photographer that you can be, keep in mind that each artist has uniquely different gifts, that are strengthened through continued development over the fullness of time!
In order to become a professional wedding photographer, I suggest you select a camera, take a course in photography and photographic lighting, and then volunteer yourself out as an “unofficial” wedding photographer. Get your subjects to sign a release, granting you permission to use the photos to promote your “wedding photographer” for hire web site in exchange for some free photos. Volunteer your services like this for at least six weddings to develop your style, skill and finesse. Advise your clients to hire an “official” wedding photographer as you are doing it to build a portfolio and gain experience. This way, while you perfect your craft, you take no responsibility if they do not get what they want because you are not the “official” photographer.
I shot a wedding that produced the most magnificent photos I have ever taken. It was the last hurrah for my Yashika FXD which served me well from high school until now. I’ve yet to pick up a digital camera – and don’t know if digital is better than film, but it costs less. Just make sure that you know your camera well, know your shots; close ups, long shots, and medium close ups. Get help from your newlyweds when creating a shot sheet, listing all people and combinations of people they want you to photograph. Also, be sure to have plenty of film or disk space to take those photos.
It’s important to find a good camera, take a basic photography course to get started, then let the photographs speak for themselves. People notice a job well done. Passion shows in every little detail of ones interpretation. Don’t allow your clients to be photographed with a half eaten platter in front of them, it’s unattractive. Every shot should represent a picture for a wonderful brides magazine.
It has never been necessary for me to use a photo retoucher. My couples have been picture perfect partially due to my watching to see when they need powder or lipstick or if a updo out of place is too much out of placet. I’ve yet to see a pimply faced bride show up without adequate concealer to take care of the problem. Use of professional
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Tags: Long Shots, Photographic Lighting, Professional Wedding Photographer