Weddings are very personal and you want to make sure that all the love, laughter, and fun shows through your pictures. One of the best ways to do this is to take time to get to know the couple. The better you know the couple and the more comfortable they feel around you, the better your pictures will turn out.
Most couples begin planning their wedding a good deal in advance of the big day. Try to set up a time where you can sit down and discuss the wedding day with them. Learn about their likes and dislikes, their personalities, and the exact shots they want you to get. If you do their engagement pictures, you can use this time to know them better too. If the couple is on a tight deadline before the wedding, then send out a questionnaire that will help you learn more about them.
Learn the Bounce Flash Technique
Ever wonder how wedding photographers can get amazing pictures, even when the reception area is dark at night? They are able to use a technique known as bounce flash. The trick to this technique is that you will point the flash head at an angle to the subject, bouncing it off something else, like he wall or the ceiling.
It is also possible for the photographer to bounce the flash from a distance, such as during speeches or to get the whole wedding party. If the party is held outdoors and there is nowhere for the flash to bounce off, try feathering the light. This includes lifting the flash head just a bit. Experiment with the power and zoom settings and you are ready to go.
Have Everyone Know Their Responsibilities Ahead of Time
Before the wedding, try to sit down with the couple and go over expectations. Let the couple know your responsibilities and what you plan to take n the day of the wedding. This can include how many pictures you provide, how many hours you will be at the event, and any payment requirements before the day.
Setting these expectations out right from the start can avoid many confusions. The couple may not realize they are getting a limited number of hours or that you will not be able to show up early the day of the wedding. It is fine to negotiate with them if they have some special requests, but before the meeting is over, make sure all parties know what to expect of the day.