Wedding Photography FAQ

Whether your just beginning your professional photography career or are simply photographing a wedding for a friend, you're sure to have questions! Below we address some of the most frequently asked questions from newbie photographers.

Wedding Photo FAQ #1 - How Much Photography Experience Do I Need?
The best thing you can do before you photograph your first wedding is get some education and hands on experience! Even if you're a seasoned portrait, sports, children or pet photographer, weddings are a different beast - the Superbowl of photography shoots! Get some wedding photography specific education. Does this mean enroll in classes at your local community college? Heck no! There are several great on-line resources dedicated to wedding photography be it e-books, forums or videos.To get hands-on, real life training, tag along with a fellow photographer. You probably know at least one profession wedding photographer. Perhaps the one that photographed your wedding! Ask if you can accompany them on their next wedding. Many photographers are happy to exchange some great best wedding photography tips for beginners in exchange for free labor!

Wedding Photo FAQ #2 - Do I Need a Flash?
One of my favorite photography professors said " Ignore the light and people will ignore your photographs". So true! I would definitley recommend using a flash beyond what is built into your camera. Practice lighting people in all types of lighting conditions - full sun, shade, indoors etc.  While I'm a firm believer in a little fill flash to eliminate shadows under the eyes and noes, keep in mind there are many new photographers that prefer the 'natural', non flash look.

Wedding Photo FAQ #3 - What Equipment Do I Really Need?
At the minimum you need a mid level hobbyist Digital SLR. In simple terms, if your camera doesn't allow you to change lenses, you need a better camera! If possible have a flash other than the one built into your camera. And of course, plenty of flash cards - more meg than you think you could possibly use!

Wedding Photo FAQ #4 -  What About Posing?
On the wedding day, everyone will be looking to you to tell them what to do - where to stand, how to stand, what to do with their hands, etc. You need to be able to make posing decisions quickly and efficiently. Again, many great resources are available on-line from videos to posing guides. Find a guide you like and study it and practice with friend who are willing to model. By all means don't be afraid to experiment!

Wedding Photo FAQ #5 - Do I Need Backup Equipment?
When it comes to weddings, there are no do-overs! For every piece of equipment you bring, try to bring a back up even if you have to rent a camera or borrow a friend's. You don't want to find yourself in a position where a piece of equipment breaks and you are unable to continue photographing the wedding. Have back ups with you and you will sleep much better the night before!

Follow these Wedding Photography FAQ guidelines and you will be much more prepared for the wedding. The more prepared you are, the more you can concentrate on taking great photographs!