As a budding wedding photographer – like any other profession- there are some mistakes you’ll likely make in the first few jobs you take. Though some people may say it’s good to make them so you can learn, how about the wedding couple? This occasion is a one-time event for them, you can’t afford to slip-up on their account.
Wedding photography professional Emma, of EmmaMay Weddings believes that there are errors nuptial photographers shouldn’t make, especially on a joyous occasion such as a wedding ceremony. “These pictures will last a lifetime and must be carefully taken,” she says.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
Poor Equipment Handling
For wedding photographs, you should handle at least two cameras, extra lenses and external flashes. You should also take along spare batteries and memory cards too. Know when to change cameras, which lens to apply and which camera settings are best for the occasion. There are different exposures for outdoor daytime shots and indoor evening photos- things you must know.
It shouldn’t take too long to switch lenses or work around different settings while shooting. Newbies who do not acquaint themselves with these aspects are sure to have issues with their equipment. This is not a good reputation to start off your career.
Poor Exposure
The white bridal gown is one of the most (if not the most) important features of many weddings, and can be a handful to capture correctly. You don’t want to overexpose it into a glaring mass of white with no comprehensive detail. However, underexposure is also a headache as it could form a dull grey image.
One advantage a digital camera has over traditional film cameras is the ability to check the exposure immediately after a shot and make the right adjustments. In addition, you can use the camera’s auto exposure bracketing to take a series of photos in quick burst at no extra cost to you. Look out for noise too. Ensure you turn on your camera’s highlight warning to alert you of exposure mistakes.
Capturing The Right Moment Is Important
During the wedding ceremony, there are several important moments which define the occasion for the wedding couple. If you don’t research properly, you might be unaware and miss the opportunity to capture those moments.
Don’t deprive the bride and groom of moments they want to cherish; the wedding kiss, the father-daughter dance, exchange of vows and rings are some examples of key moments. You can also ask the couple ahead of time for their preferences- not during the wedding!
Poor Background
Most professional wedding photographers check out the wedding venue before the main day so they can have a good idea of what to expect, and ideal location for important photos of the couple and their relatives. A good, clean background will bring out the beauty of the couple and make the occasion presentable in photos.
For example, shooting the bride and groom in the church doorway gives a context, and creates a frame around them. This beats taking shoots of them in front of an untrimmed bush in the church courtyard.
The key thing to remember is to be prepared; do your homework and communicate with the couple well before the big day so you don’t distract them or deprive them of eye lock moments on their special day.
