When you’re starting out in wedding photography, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the details. The stakes feel high, and the learning curve can be steep. Lessons often come with time, but you don’t have to figure it all out the hard way.
Coming to you from Luke Cleland, this practical video breaks down six key lessons every wedding photographer should know before their first shoot. Cleland shares how he initially struggled without tools like client management software. Early on, he relied on memory to handle client details, invoices, and deadlines, which led to chaos. Staying organized using the help of a dedicated program helps you focus on creating great photos rather than chasing down payments or client emails. Tools like these can help build trust with your clients.
Cleland also discusses the unnecessary pressure he placed on himself to create studio-perfect lighting in every scenario. For receptions and low-light environments, he would bring excessive equipment, believing flawless lighting was the priority. In hindsight, he realized this focus on gear distracted him from capturing moments that matter most—like genuine emotions and interactions. As he put it, your job as a photographer is to reflect the reality of the day, not create something that doesn’t exist. Simplifying your approach and being present in the moment helps you better serve your clients.
Pinterest inspiration boards can be another stumbling block, Cleland notes. Brides often bring reference photos to shoots, which can be useful for understanding their vision. But Cleland warns against trying to force these moments, especially when they don’t align with the real dynamics of the wedding day. In one story, he recalls attempting to recreate a photo of a flower girl stepping into a bride’s shoe, only to find the child uncooperative. His takeaway? Real moments unique to the couple’s day are far more meaningful than contrived poses.
Cleland stresses the importance of delivering wedding galleries on time—or better yet, early. Delayed photo delivery not only frustrates clients but also damages referral opportunities. Clear communication about timelines and delivering ahead of schedule can set you apart as reliable and professional. That's just the start, so check out the video above for the full rundown from Cleland.
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!"
