You got hired to shoot your first wedding. Congratulations! It's a big day, and you might feel a bit overwhelmed, but don't worry. It's more manageable than you think.
Coming to you from Lotta Milde with B&H Photo and Video, this practical video gives you a detailed guide on preparing for your first wedding shoot. Keeping your gear simple is key. Bring a camera you’re comfortable with and the best lens you can get. Some prefer prime lenses, while others like the flexibility of a zoom lens. Focus more on the lens because it significantly impacts the look of your photos. Always bring a backup camera and a friend who has experience shooting weddings. Having an extra set of eyes and hands is invaluable.
Backup gear is essential. Even if you don't use it, knowing you have it will keep you calm. Charge all your batteries, bring extras, and ensure your SD cards are ready. Shooting in raw and recording to two SD cards is crucial. This gives you flexibility in editing and protects against data loss. Shooting in raw also helps when dealing with different lighting situations, which you'll encounter throughout the day.
Milde emphasizes the importance of a pre-shoot check. Before leaving your house, take a few shots to ensure everything is working correctly. This simple step can prevent last-minute panic at the venue. For the wedding day, pack essentials like water, snacks, and comfortable shoes. Bring a flash with backup batteries, a reflector for portraits, and a small bag for easy access to SD cards and your phone.
Having a good attitude is vital. Keep calm, smile, and make the couple and their guests comfortable. You'll spend a lot of time with the couple, so being pleasant and approachable is crucial. Don’t be afraid to take charge when needed, especially for group shots. Speak loudly and clearly to ensure everyone hears you.
Overshooting is better than missing a shot. If you think a moment is worth capturing, take several shots to avoid issues like blinking. Experiment with different angles to enhance storytelling and create a dynamic gallery. Get comfortable with your flash and practice beforehand.
Modern cameras handle high ISO settings well, so don't be afraid to crank it up to capture the moment. Remember, capturing the feeling is more important than technical perfection. You're documenting memories, not shooting for a magazine cover. That's just the start, so check out the video above for the full rundown from Milde.
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!"
