So out of no where, I sort of accidentally accepted an offer to shoot a wedding. My friend that is a videographer has been doing decent with his gigs and asked me if I wanted to shoot a wedding along side him. At first I thought I'd be the second shooter but I must have been read his text wrong and the gig was meant for me to be the primary photographer at the event. This is literally my first paid gig and even my first wedding ever. So I am going to be posting a lot of questions from now till then.
First things first. I want to know if anyone recommends specific lenses or even camera bodies. I currently have a Mark 3 and a 24mm and 50mm but I just think it would be more versatile to shoot with a zoom instead. Since i am the only shooter, I can't really afford to be fiddling with swapping lenses mid shoot. I am looking to rent the 70-200mm and that should be good for the ceremony and what not but when it comes to the reception, I am thinking my 24mm should do the trick for the dancing portions. Any one else recommend anything? How many batteries do you think I need? I currently have two. I have to flashes. Do I need a defuser? Any help would be appreciated. Steezy & Rolo......drop some knowledge for me.
So far i've second shot for 5 weddings and feel like im not even close to ready
Heres some VERY scattered thoughts
Bring all your storage devices.. :x . wouldnt hurt to have a 3rd battery.. .
Set up off camera flash... make the flash form a triangle between u and the subject... but dont make harsh lines from the flash coming in too sideways
NEVER EVER EVER EVER make the bride look overweight
have a shot list of poses for portraits
if you do a first look, PREPARE the groom by telling him which way to turn (towards your camera) regardless of what shoulder he gets tapped on
family formals will have 100 people telling u what to do... be kind and keep it moving unless the BRIDE interrupts your flow. Its the bride's day, not aunt sally's who is already 4 drinks down and aint seen the bride since she was 11.
Bring:
- WATER - Drink lots of water / stay hydrated
- Almonds, some other kind of nuts (pause), crackers, etc... u might be hungry or the bride...
- Tylenol, ib p, etc... bride might get a headache...
- Pads / tampons... obvious reasons
- Small coloring books / crayons for belligerent children
KEEP THE SCHEDULE MOVING
Pinterest is your best friend for shot ideas
Always pay attention to the outside of your frame during portraits... never cut off fingers, elbows, shoulders, etc.
Pay attention to your horizon lines... have lots of sky if applicable (will require you to shoot up from a low position... if the bride is not flattering, eff the horizon lines and make the bride look stunning)