If this is your first time taking pictures at a big occasion, it can be quite intimidating. You would want to produce great shots that will be appreciated and surpass every bodies expectations.

Probably one of the most stressful subjects for amateur photographers is Wedding photography. Despite having the technical knowledge on the lighting and effects you want to apply on your subject, you’d still have to know some basic knowledge on how to keep things moving and going on while you photograph key moments, people and events.

Some key points that can help:

Make a list of Photos beforehand

Before the couple says their vows, have them give you a list of the photographs they want taken, particularly of their relatives. It is quite frustrating when you have had the photos done, and realize then that you have missed the photograph of the couple with their grandmother.

Put a Family Member In Charge Of Organizing Photos

One of the most stressful parts of the Wedding photography is taking family shots. People are milling about chatting and more interested in celebrating than having their photos taken. Suggest that the newlyweds pick out a reliable relative from each side who can take the position of the photography organizer- their duty will be to get everybody together, make certain they participate in the photo and also maintain the flow of things so the newlyweds can remain unstressed.

Survey the Wedding Locations

If you have a lay out or plan of where to take the best shots would be very helpful. Try to figure out the areas that light will come from and perhaps even take several test pictures of the couple and they can put this together with their “pre-nuptial pictures.

Be Well-prepared

Sometimes things don’t go according to plan on the big day, so it is good to be prepared with backups – extra batteries, memory cards for cameras, and think carefully about the day’s itinerary and travel plans. Being at the rehearsal for the wedding provides valuable information about the lightimg and the best places to get your shots.

Set Realistic Expectations

Let the couple see your past work and style and set a realistic goals for the days. Be realistic when estimating the number of shots you will be able to achieve. If they are paying you, make sure that you have a clear agreement on the price.

Switch the Sound off the Camera

Switch of the sound of all the camera equipment before the ceremony and keep it silent throughout the speeches, the all-important couple’s first kiss and exchange of vows.

Shoot The Small Details

Take pictures of the rings, backs of dresses, flowers, shoes, table settings and others. You can get some good ideas from wedding magazines.

Use More than One Camera

If you own only one camera, try to borrow or rent others; you can set each up with a different lens to allow quick swapping. At least two would be fine – a broad angle lens for candid shots, which will also work fine in tight places, and another with a long lens for distance shots.

Have an Alternate Photographer

A support photographer can be an enormous help as it means ha move less during the ceremony and the speeches. Having someone with you can share the tasks of capturing the official shots while not missing the outspoken shots. It becomes easier and less stressful because you are not the only photographer.

Be bold, but unobtrusive

If you are shy, you will miss ‘the picture’. Don’t be afraid of pushing your way to the front. You should think ahead and try and be to be in an accurate and exact position for the ‘important and key’ moments. Move around at least 5 times, but try to coincide your movement with the longer readings or songs.

Fun shots at weddings are one of the best ways to ease up the couple and the party during formal shots. As the photographer, always be ready with a smile as people will respond to it. The background of a photo is integral to a good shot while special effects can add even more interest. After the ceremony, you can display some of the pictures at the reception for the party to appreciate.

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