How to Get Started in Wedding Photography
Wedding photography is challenging at its best. It is a situation where the photographer has one chance to get their best shots. Knowledge of equipment needed and the responsibility of being there on that day are imperative. Creating the perfect album of storybook shots meets the goal.
- Purchase a professional SLR (single-lens reflex) camera that fits your hand. Familiarize yourself with it and know your camera. You must understand how the camera works and which lenses are needed to create the effects desired. Lighting is important. An in camera flash is not enough for most indoor weddings. Purchase a zoom lens and an external flash for your camera. Tripods are also a necessary purchase for shots of the wedding party. A back up camera and batteries are imperative for a long day of shooting.
- Purchase software for editing. Adobe Photoshop is an excellent choice and comes with the features you need to produce wedding quality portraits. Understand and use the software.
- Create a business plan. Decide what your fees are. Create business cards and advertise. Set up a professional website.
- Create a portfolio of your work. A wedding photographer is usually hired because they can communicate with people and understand what the bride and family expect. Seeing your previous work will enhance your opportunity of being hired.
- Be unique with your own style. Brides expect their day to be special and unlike others. They often choose someone because of a quality different from other photographers.
- Join photography clubs and seminars on photography to keep you on the cutting edge of what is new. Wedding photography is often based on fads and fashion. Knowing the fashion of today's photography keeps you abreast of what is expected in the field of wedding photography.
- Have fun and learn to shoot under pressure. A bride's unique day is an emotional and challenging feat. A calm photographer who is able to walk through that minefield without damaging others or themselves lands the jobs.