To be a successful wedding photographer, you must do much more than show there with a camera. A perfect world would be one in which you are creating a visual family heirloom that would be remembered fondly for many years to come. It’s a huge responsibility: you’re documenting a couple’s wedding day for the first and only time in their lives. As a result, here are some professional Event Photography Wollongong dos and don’ts to keep in mind.
Recruit a second shooter or a team member to assist you.
When working on a large-scale project like a wedding photoshoot, it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan. Alternatively, if the couple decides to hire a videographer, both still photographs and video footage must be captured by two different individuals.
Make an appointment to meet with the couple ahead of time to create a shooting program for Event Photography Wollongong.
The importance of understanding what they want to be photographed during the wedding photoshoot can’t be stressed enough. They will likely ask you to shoot the first kiss between the bride and groom, the bouquet throw, the first dance, and the carving of the wedding cake at the reception, among other things. Preparation for the wedding day should include getting to know the couple. It is necessary to understand their preferences and top priority issues.
With the help of Event Photography Wollongong, create a shot list.
Produce a list of the photographs you wish to have taken at the event by a staff member or volunteer if you have one. Include as much detail as possible about whatever you would like to be considered for future publication or marketing. In this way, your photographer will be able to stay on time while shooting all of the photos you require.
Take a look at your lighting.
When it comes to shooting high-quality photographs, lighting is critical to the process. The usage of external illumination may be necessary if your venue is low-lit, as it may be challenging to capture excellent images in this situation. If your event is taking place outside on a bright day, you can use lens filters or investigate the sun’s course to avoid casting unpleasant shadows on the participants.
Some lighting issues can be resolved in post-production, but the most outstanding results are obtained when the image is well-lit from the start. Prepare yourself by doing some prior research and being aware of what you might encounter.
It is necessary to call attention to key players.
In addition to creating a shot list, you should identify the VIP attendees at your event and make sure that the photographer is informed of the photographs taken of these influential individuals.
Are there any prizes being given out or groups of VIPs chatting during cocktail hour that should be photographed? This type of information should be supplied to ensure that you receive the photographs you require for your project. Following the event, essential guests may inquire for photographs, and you never want to have to explain, “Unfortunately, we were unable to capture a photograph of you at the event.”
Both candid and staged images are acceptable.
At the very least, having both candid and posed or formal shots is always a good idea, regardless of what you intend to do with them later on. In addition to being used for future marketing publications and social media messaging, candid images can also be used for promotional purposes. It is usually preferable to have many photos shot in various styles rather than a small number of photographs shot in a single class.
Communicate the overall theme of the event.
Photos will be available for download for a considerable period after the event has concluded. The photographs should convey the essence of the event in every way, which applies to every component. The person who will be photographing your event should be aware of the atmosphere you desire to create for your guests. Take pictures of the table settings, the location, and the overall decor. Guests may be dressed in thematic costumes, and seasonal fare may be served at the event. Your images must reflect the theme that you have chosen for the occasion.
Inform Others About Your Photographic Strategy
If you intend to photograph your event, you most likely plan how you desire to use the photographs. Ensure your photographer is informed of your goals since this may impact the images they can take in the future.
Perhaps you will include the photographs in the promotional materials for the event next year. You’ll want your pictures to depict a diverse range of individuals and activities to demonstrate a variety of perspectives in your marketing campaigns. The format indeed has a considerable impact on the images you will choose, but as previously noted, variety is always a good thing!
Don’t get too excited and jump right in.
Don’t take on the responsibility of photographing a wedding until you’re sure you’re up to the task. To be successful as a wedding photographer, you must be completely honest with yourself about your abilities and competence.
Not assume that you will be able to utilize flash everywhere you go.
Find out ahead of time whether the wedding venue has any restrictions on what you can bring. Because of the disruption that flashes photography causes during services, several churches have adopted a no-flash policy.