How to Shoot Wedding Photography

Preparation

• 1

  Create an overall plan with the bride and groom about locations, specific photos wanted, types of photos wanted (formal or casual) and dealing with other photographers.

• 2

  Go to locations a month ahead of the date to see what lighting and camera positions are available.

• 3

  Make a shot list of every photo you plan to take.

Beforehand

• 4

  Shoot photos of the bride and bridesmaids getting ready at the house or in the dressing room.

• 5

  Shoot the formally-posed pictures of the groom, groomsmen and ushers.

• 6

  Take photos at the location entrance, and position your camera and assistant to take photos of the aisle and the where the couple will be standing.

• 7

  Shut off the sound on the camera.

During

• 8

  Take photos of the entire wedding party, including the wedding official, the lined up groom and groomsmen and the bridal party coming down the aisle.

• 9

  Capture the groom's face when he first sees the bride.

• 10

  Position yourself and assistant in two fixed places during the ceremony--from behind the couple at the alter and a view of the faces of the couple.

After the Vows

• 11

  Shoot the formal group photos. Create groups of the entire family, the bride's family, the groom's family, formal bridesmaids photos, the couple with the complete wedding party, the couple with the bridesmaids, the couple with the groomsmen, etc.

• 12

  Shoot the cake and table settings, the rings, flowers, menus and invitations.

• 13

  Take photos of the bride and groom's entrance into the reception location and all major traditions including the toast, cutting the cake and first dance.

• 14

  Capture candid moments like dancing and fun shots.

Editing

• 15

  Use a basic editing program to crop photos, remove red eyes and rotate photos.

• 16

  Burn photos to a CD or DVD in a simple or slide show format.

• 17

  Deliver the completed package to the bride and groom within a month of the wedding.