Preparing for your first wedding is exciting yet daunting. Getting it right can set the foundation for your career and build your confidence.
Coming to you from Katelyn James, this practical video shares essential insights for approaching your first wedding with preparedness and composure. James emphasizes that gear matters—not necessarily the most expensive gear, but reliable essentials. A backup camera, extra batteries, and sufficient memory cards are critical. Losing wedding images due to lack of preparedness isn't a risk worth taking. James recommends affordable, reliable options like a 64 GB or 128 GB memory card, ensuring you have enough space for unexpected extra shots. A camera with dual card slots is always a great idea as well.
Next, James advises securing or creating a clear timeline for the wedding day. If your client hasn't provided one, offering to create it demonstrates professionalism and instills confidence in your abilities. James suggests using this timeline to mentally walk through each part of the day, envisioning what photos you'll capture at different stages. This proactive approach positions you to calmly guide rather than react frantically. Weddings require gentle authority from the photographer—being assertive without dominating—to ensure the day flows smoothly. A clear vision prevents confusion and makes clients trust you implicitly.
James further highlights the importance of always thinking several steps ahead. Rather than getting caught up in the moment, staying proactive helps manage your environment effectively. For instance, arriving early to scout suitable locations for crucial shots like the first look is essential. Knowing your spots beforehand helps you transition smoothly, maintaining control over the flow of the event. This foresight not only makes your job easier but also significantly reduces stress levels, allowing you to focus clearly on capturing exceptional moments.
That's just the start of the helpful advice, so check out the video above for the full rundown from James.
If you would like to continue to learn about wedding photography, be sure to check out "How To Become A Professional Commercial Wedding Photographer With Lee Morris and Patrick Hall!"
