Capturing irreplaceable moments and translating them into pictures is both a learned skill and an art form.A wedding photographer memorializes, wedding day for many, as it is the happiest day of their lives. The responsibility inherent in producing photographs commemorating the once-in-a-lifetime experience is enormous. But then so are the rewards. To be sure, generations will treasure your art form. A wedding is typically one of the most memorable days in a lifetime, one that people remember for years to come. For most couples, regular pictures just won’t do. Wedding photography is a big business and a very specialized type of photography.
Basically, wedding photography involves taking photographs of wedding ceremonies and participants. However, most professionals realize that there is much more to wedding photography than simply snapping a few pictures. Only the highest quality and most original photographs will do. The number of photographs taken at an average wedding is staggering. The most important photographs are usually those that are of the bride and groom, and the rest of the wedding party. Subjects in many of these photos are usually meticulously posed. Candid shots are also taken at Weddings as well, such as photos of the little girl dancing on her father’s feet or the bride smashing cake in the groom’s face. These types of shots are sometimes the most treasures. Besides photographs of people, photographs of inanimate objects are also taken at weddings. Some of the most commonly photographed items include the chapel, cake, gown, and rings.
The first thing – and most important – thing that a wedding photographer does is meet with his clients. This is usually the bride and groom, or a representative of the family. During the initial meeting, the wedding photographer and clients will discuss the details of the wedding and what types of photographs the clients would prefer. Essentially, the photographer must get a feel for his client’s style. Once these plans have been discussed, the wedding photographer will usually scout out the venue before the wedding. If possible, many photographers will usually visit the venue several days or weeks before the actual wedding date. On the day of the wedding, a wedding photographer is often one of the first ones to arrive. Typically, he will bring at least one assistant or additional photographer with him to help. These additional professionals may be responsible for anything from carrying equipment to taking photographs. The first wedding photographs are taken before the actual wedding even begins. These photographs often include shots of the dress, the bride getting ready, and the groom waiting with his groomsmen. If time permits, many photographers will also pose and shoot members of the wedding party. Several photographs are also usually taken during the wedding ceremony itself. Some classic wedding shots include the flower girl walking down the aisle, the bride’s father giving her away, and the couple taking their wedding vows. Of course, wedding photographers will also usually get shots of one of the most crucial moments – the newlywed’s first kiss. Couples will usually have the photographer stay for the reception as well. Here, he will usually take photographs of the tables, presents, and cake. Classic photographs of the bride throwing the bouquet and the father-daughter dance are also taken at this time. He will also take several candid shots of the wedding party and guests enjoying themselves. These difficult shots are sometimes very hard to get, and a wedding photographer should be able to react quickly, since these moments can pass in the blink of an eye. A wedding photographer’s job doesn’t end after the wedding ceremony and reception, however. At an average wedding, each photographer will usually take hundreds or even thousands of photographs. Out of all of these photographs, only a small percentage are usable. A wedding photographer will typically only choose the best pictures, discarding ones that are out of focus, boring, or just generally unacceptable. Some photographs may also need to be retouched. Afterward, he will usually help the newlyweds choose the best possible photographs of their special day.
