Wedding Photography
Develop a Unique Style to Set you Apart
If you want to be successful in the wedding photography business, it's important to develop your own, unique style to set you apart.
Wedding Photography Tips
1. Always keep in mind that there is no single formula that will guarantee your success in the wedding photography business. A photographic style that works a treat for another photographer may not work for you. Experiment with different styles and work out what feels both comfortable and enjoyable to you. You may want to use the same styles you use for candid camera work, or if you come from an editorial background, use those skills to create something different. Some photographers love standing in the middle of the dance floor snapping away with a fisheye lens, or on a table in the bridal dressing room. Other have a much more formal approach. Do what you love!
2. Follow your instincts and don't take too much notice of what anyone else is doing. Being true to yourself and not copying others is a sure way of succeeding. Also try to re-invent yourself periodically to make sure your work stays fresh and you remain ahead of the game. If you're getting bored with what you do, it will show.
3. As a wedding photographer, your job is to take the bride and groom's vision of the “perfect” images they have in mind and create an image. Be careful that you're not so fixed on using your own style that you don't take the client's wishes into consideration. Discuss your style with the bride and groom and show them examples of shots you're particularly proud of so you can get a feel for what they like best. Are they going for a casual, formal or contemporary look? Your creative style is important, but less important than satisfying your clients.
4. Make sure that you have the technical knowledge to use creative lighting techniques. In photography, good lighting makes everything else fall into place. Far too many wedding photographers still light scenes in a boring way - and it shows in the end results.
5. Shoot as much as you can. It's impossible to develop a style if you don't have enough experience in the field. If you're diligent about the quality of the photographs you produce, the style aspect will fall into place for sure.
6. You can be the best photographer in the world, but not righ for a particular couple. Be willing to let a wedding photographer shoot go if it becomes obvious that your style is not what a couple has in mind. If you do the shoot anyway, chances are that you will be frustrated and the clients unhappy with the images.
7. It's best not to put time limits on photo sessions, because it often takes time to work through the essential wedding poses list before you can start getting creative. Keep in mind that the guests may be waiting though, so think on your feet and work as efficiently as you can.
8. Try to stay 'emotionally tuned in' to the bride and groom during the entire process. Capture as many decisive moments as you can and practice the art of anticipation. You have to be ready with your camera before the moment occurs rather than scrambling to get ready as events unfold.
Related Posts
* Tips for Wedding Photographers
* Lighting Techniques for Weddings
* Photography Checklist for Weddings
(From Wedding Photography back to Basic Photography Tips Home Page)
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