Comments on: The Wedding Photographer

By: Ashley

Ashley — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 03:08:48 +0000

Im photography my best friend’s wedding in a month. I’m so nervous, because I am by no means a fantastic photographer.
It’s mostly a matter of not knowing anyone else who she can get on a tight budget. (Or, ya know, for free…) If I’m not charging them, not as much pressure? Right? Right?! Yeah… didnt think so… *sigh* Not gonna be fun
.-= Ashley´s last blog ..Crappy Daytrip, Sick Kitty, Catchy Song =-.

By: Cherie

Cherie — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:16:46 +0000

It looks like the photos turned out well. Congrats to getting a photography gig too.

I hope our photographer is as planned out as you were! We walked Cantigny on Sunday and it provides a lot of opportunities for photos and we’re going to see what we can get done in an hour. I promised to trust the photographer and just go with it knowing that some things just can’t be planned and you never really know what will work out until you try things.
.-= Cherie´s last blog ..Garrett Popcorn Shops to Re-Open Michigan Avenue Store =-.

By: Alice

Alice — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 16:30:31 +0000

I agree with Grandy, that is a lovely picture. Perhaps a great picture like that could be put in black and white and made into some anniversary greeting cards I think many people will appreciate the thought and gesture. Make sure you choose a free site too.

By: Grandy

Grandy — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:53:07 +0000

I am LOVING that picture of the flower girl. The pedals in mid-air are GREAT!!

I’ve never photographed a wedding, but have had to play the singer once or twice. It’s very nerve racking.

Hope you’re well Matt!! :)
.-= Grandy´s last blog ..A letter to Grandy’s Bank =-.

By: Matt Stratton

Matt Stratton — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:21:54 +0000

Thanks, Ari! I’m hoping to finish up all the processing in about two weeks – I am going up north to Michigan on Wednesday and won’t be back until Monday night, so I won’t have a chance to really work on the photos until next week. But I’ll be digging deep into them when I get back…

By: Matt Stratton

Matt Stratton — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:20:48 +0000

Thanks for the insight, Keith. That’s a great suggestion to practice by taking photos at Fizz – I just have to get over my flash-fear I think :)

By: Ari

Ari — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 03:38:07 +0000

Well I have to say, based on the first picture, I can’t wait to see what you come up with! I love how that picture looks, great capture.

I can not imagine every shooting a wedding – definitely high stakes, and loads of angry people if you don’t do well/get the right shots.
.-= Ari´s last blog ..And now I’m broke… =-.

By: Keith Shapiro

Keith Shapiro — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 02:22:55 +0000

Having been on both sides, the most important thing is communication. Understand what the bride (and groom, but mostly the bride) want. Make sure that your definition of “formals” and their definition of “formals” are the same. Likewise with PJ or whatever style you happen to shoot.

Get used to using fill flash. If you’re going to do weddings, you’ll need a top-end flash. I recommend (and swear by) a Metz. You’ll also want an external battery pack to speed recharges. I can point you to a friend of mine in FL who makes them.

Shooting with an assistant is absolutely required IMO, especially in the formals. You’ll want someone to herd folks while you’re composing the shots.

Work on your action shots. In your case, go to Fizz and take photos of dancing. It’s fast moving, it’s low light, and (if you’re using a flash) you really can’t just roll at 8fps. Get confidant with action so that you know you can get a shot in a tough lighting or moving situation. That’ll free up your mind a little bit to work on improving your compositions, checking for extraneous items in the background, and looking for better locations.

Don’t be afraid to help keep things to a timetable or to help coordinate. As the photographer, you’re the one who’s really controlling when things are happening. Embrace that role, because if you’re scared of asking a bride to wait a few more moments so you can get a shot, she’ll know. :)

That’s all I can think of at the moment. Glad to hear it all worked out!