Thursday 13 May 2010

Wedding Photography Primer

In the wedding services world, there are many run of the mill professionals that do an adequate job, but there’s always that top 10% that excel in their field, and wedding photography is certainly no exception! Seeking out a completely experienced and qualified wedding photographer that is in the top echelon is critical, as it’s a once in a lifetime moment in time that should be captured in all of its grandeur, professionally. A great wedding photographer will be with you most of the day taking candid photos from the beginning to the end - keepsakes for years to come. The images a photographer takes will leave a lasting impression on the bride and groom forever and fully capture the excitement of the special day. Wedding photography will have a personal style or nuance – maybe photojournalistic, or perhaps highly detailed and formal. Planning for your photo shoot is very important and searching for wedding photography online or in books should give you a head start in terms of finding what type of style you prefer in photos. Mood, ambience, setting, film, camera type, time of day and lighting are just some of the variables professionals use when photographing weddings.

Meet with the wedding photographer and discuss the event.

Ask at local reputable wedding shops or consultants and planners for references for reputable wedding photography companies. Often the smaller “custom” wedding photographers will work much more diligently to fulfill your needs. Feel free to line up three or four photographers, and meet them 6-12 months in advance. Ask them for references, and write up a contract, which will discuss all aspects of payment and deliverables. The contract specifically should contain what equipment will be used, the hours of photography work done, deposit amount, payment type and cancellation clauses.

Ideally the person will have the experience to know what is needed to keep the day flowing photo wise and whether or not they will need an assistant.You should get a very clear idea of the style of photos each professional takes and choose accordingly.

Plan for “key” wedding photo shots.

Think ahead, and if possible, plan with the photographer different ways to “capture” the essence of each moment by discussing where the photos will be taken, with whom. Many times couples will ask for special photos of Mothers, Fathers, brother sisters and such. Ask thephotographerto capture these key moments. A photo of you before you change into your wedding dress, when you first put the dress on, when the groom first sees you and when you are formally announced as a married couple, are only some examples. Photos of you both being transported away from the ceremony, first dance, and reception shots are classic photo shots that most experienced creative wedding photographers should plan for. Use your imagination to design your own souvenir shots, and allow the photographer to use space creatively to make the photos “come alive” with impact.The possibilities are endless.

By using your own flair and style, your wedding photos could provide you and your family and loved ones with lasting memories of your reception, ceremony, and most special day.

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