Wedding photography is more than just a camera and pretty pictures. It’s about capturing emotion, giving the couple memories that will last a lifetime.

Start with an open and honest conversation with the couple to understand their vision for the day. Ask them what they would like captured and if they have any specific requests.

Equipment

A high-quality camera is essential. A good DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens and a zoom lens is a great start. A backup camera is also a must. It doesn’t have to be as nice as your primary camera but you want something that can save the day if yours breaks.

A good reflector is also a must. It’s used for bouncing off-camera flash and creating shadows, scrims, gobo’s, and more. Popular options include MagMod’s line of lighting modifiers which are quick and easy to use, for example, the MagGrid can control and direct a beam of light while the MagSphere softens it and enlarges it.

A second flash is also a must for adding additional light when needed. The best option is a wireless flash system like Profoto’s but other systems, like native ones from the camera makers or 3rd party options work well too. You should also have a few spare batteries and memory cards in case your primary camera dies.

Lighting

There are many ways to use artificial lighting, and a great photographer will be able to adapt to the available light. They may even use a mix of natural and artificial lighting to get the most out of their shots.

The first look is a popular moment to capture, and wedding photographers can use a variety of techniques to document this special moment. They can use off-camera flash to create a more interesting light, or they can position their lights at a flattering angle to the couple’s faces. This is called rim lighting, and it can help avoid the common problem of “raccoon eyes” that results when the light is too close to the subjects’ faces.

Some photographers use a hybrid approach, shooting on film and digital cameras. This allows them to capture the artistic and nostalgic quality of film while also delivering a high-quality digital album for their clients. When choosing a wedding photographer, make sure to view their portfolio and request a full gallery of photos to see the quality of their work.

Group Shots

Group shots are often a low priority on the wedding day (especially when there is a lot to do) but they are an important part of the overall story. They are priceless heirlooms for the couple and eye-catchers for browsing clients. So it is worth planning ahead and putting them in the schedule. It also helps to explain this in advance to family & friends and even to give them group photo tickets a few days before the wedding so that they know when these photos are happening. It also helps when you have ushers or groomsmen available to help round everyone up as they will be familiar with some of the people in the group shots and can be a helpful resource.

It is also worth having a reserve list of groups who don’t need to be in the formal shot but whom you would really like a photo with. This might include extended family or those who have travelled from far and wide.

Posing

Weddings can be stressful for couples, especially if they don’t feel comfortable in front of the camera. Fortunately, many posing techniques are simple and effective in helping them relax.

For example, a simple prompt such as asking the bride to bend her arm and reach for her bouquet creates a lead line that draws the viewer’s eye into the photograph. Similarly, asking the groom to hold his bride’s hands creates another lead line that adds movement to the shot.

Other posing techniques include having the bridesmaids hype the couple, or capturing the groom’s hand supporting the bride as she walks. Ultimately, the most important aspect of wedding photography is to capture romance, story, and connection. And by using a variety of posing techniques, photographers can make sure that all three elements are present in every image.