Monday, March 2, 2009

Basic Tips for Beginner Wedding Photographers

By Samuel Jackson

If you are an amateur wedding photographer, you should be familiar with some basic guidelines. The following suggestions are perfect for beginners. And as you gain more experience photographing weddings, you will form your own techniques and rules. The most important thing is to always be open for critique. You are a newbie, so you want to learn as much as you can through experience. The better you get, the better your clients, and the more frequent.

When meeting with possible clients, you want to present them with a strong idea of the types of photos you take and your individual style of photography. You want to show them something that represents your work, and a reason as to why they'd want to hire you to capture their special day. Don't sacrifice the integrity of your work, just because you want a client. Make sure both you and your client are comfortable with the requests. Discuss what kind of package they might want and get as many details together, so that you can both be clear on the price, desired locations, and any other information.

Once a couple has decided to work with you, be ready to compromise the deal. Don't charge them too much, but also don't charge too low. You are just starting out, so you don't want to appear like you're expecting too much too soon. Make sure the couple is certain on the price and the expected work. Discuss a possible "dream photo album" that the bride and groom might desire. You can keep this idea in your mind as you're snapping photos at the wedding and reception.

When at the wedding and reception, freely take photos while the families are talking, walking around, and enjoying themselves. Don't be afraid to be close to the action, but try not to come off to demanding. You want the guests to enjoy themselves without feeling like you're in their faces constantly. Photograph the happy bride and groom, as well as their friends and family. Take group photos of the family, the children, the bridesmaids and the groomsmen. Try various poses - serious and silly. Photograph the couple on the dance floor. And make sure to get several photos of individual objects, like table decorations, invitations, and the cake.

As you're heading out the door to the wedding, be familiar with the location, the estimated travel time, etc. Double check that you have all your belongings that you'll be needing for both the wedding and reception. It would be horrible to show up at the wedding with dead batteries in your camera and no spare set. Wedding photography can be a lot of fun, as long as you're willing to put a little extra effort into it. The more satisfied clients you produce, the better your wedding photography business will be. - 17943

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