13 of the BEST Wedding Photography Tips for Beginners
So, you’ve decided to step into the world of wedding photography? Exciting, isn’t it? I still remember my first wedding shoot – the nerves, the excitement, and the pressure to get every shot just right.
As a Lancashire wedding photographer, I’ve learned a lot over the years, and let me tell you, weddings are as unpredictable as they are magical.
It’s not just about having a good camera; it’s about capturing emotions, telling a story, and being prepared for anything the day throws at you (yes, even unexpected rain or a missing bouquet!).
If you’re just starting out, don’t worry – I’ve got some practical tips and tricks to help you nail those once-in-a-lifetime moments. Just keep reading!
Wedding Photography Tips Every Beginners Should Know
#1: Make It Legal (Always Sign a Contract)
Let’s get this out of the way first – always, always have a contract. Trust me, it’s not just about protecting yourself; it’s about setting clear expectations for both you and your client.
A good contract outlines everything – what you’re delivering, how much you’re charging, and what happens if something unexpected comes up.
Imagine this: the big day arrives, and there’s a misunderstanding about what time you were supposed to start shooting. With a contract? Problem solved. No contract? Chaos.
Do yourself a favour – never skip this step. It keeps things professional and ensures you and your clients are on the same page from the get-go.
#2: Bring at Least One Partner to Every Wedding Photography Job
Weddings are unpredictable, and as much as we’d love to think we’re superheroes, you can’t be in two places at once. That’s why having a second shooter or assistant is a game-changer. While you’re capturing the bride’s first look with her dad, your partner can be snapping the groom’s reaction at the same time.
Having someone there to back you up also gives you a safety net for the unexpected. Need to swap out a lens? They’ve got your back. Plus, two sets of eyes mean double the creativity. Even if you’re just starting out, having an extra pair of hands – even if it’s a fellow beginner – can make a huge difference.
#3: Verify Your Photography Equipment is Working Beforehand
Here’s a lesson I learned the hard way: never assume your gear is ready to go. The night before a wedding, check everything. And I mean everything. Batteries charged? Check. Memory cards formatted? Check. Lenses clean? Double-check.
Imagine showing up and realising your camera isn’t functioning properly or your memory card is full –it’s every photographer’s nightmare. Trust me, a quick run-through of your equipment beforehand can save you from a major headache on the day.
Oh, and always bring spares – spare batteries, spare memory cards, even a backup camera if you can. It’s better to be over-prepared than scrambling during the vows!
#4: Develop Your Shot List
Let me tell you, having a shot list is a lifesaver. Weddings are fast-paced, and with all the excitement, it’s easy to miss a must-have moment. That’s where your shot list comes in.
Work with the couple beforehand to note down their non-negotiables – whether it’s the bride’s first look with her dad, a group photo with their college friends, or a close-up of the rings. Think of it as your game plan. It doesn’t mean you won’t capture spontaneous moments (those are gold!), but it ensures you won’t miss the key ones.
Pro tip: Print out the wedding shot list or save it on your phone, and check it off as you go. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when the couple is raving about how you got every shot they dreamed of!
#5: Know the Venue
Every wedding venue has its quirks, and knowing them ahead of time can save you a lot of stress. If possible, visit the location before the big day. Look for great backdrops, assess the lighting, and make a mental note of where the best shots could happen. Is there a stunning staircase? A cosy nook for intimate portraits?
Even if you can’t visit in person, check the venue’s website, social media, or past photography work to get a feel for it. Knowing the venue not only helps you plan your shots but also makes you look like a pro to your clients. They’ll love that you’re already familiar with their space!
#6: Show Up Early and Scout the Location for the Best Light Source
If there’s one thing that can make or break your photos, it’s the lighting. That’s why arriving early is a must. Give yourself time to walk around, observe how the light hits different areas, and find the best spots for your shots. Morning light? Perfect for soft, dreamy portraits. Afternoon sun? Look for shaded areas to avoid harsh shadows.
Arriving early also helps you get into the flow before the chaos begins. You can test a few shots, adjust your settings, and feel confident before the guests even arrive.
Plus, it gives you a chance to capture those beautiful pre-ceremony details – empty chairs, the altar setup, and any finishing touches the couple worked so hard on. Good lighting, less stress, and better photos – it’s a win-win!
#7: Learn How to Use Natural and Artificial Lights
Like I always say; lighting is everything in wedding photography. Natural light gives you those dreamy, soft tones, while artificial light lets you control the vibe when the sun goes down. The trick? Know how to use both to your advantage.
During the day, position your subjects to make the most of natural light – think golden hour glows or soft window light. For the reception, bring along your flash or a softbox to handle dim venues or evening shots.
Practice balancing the two so you’re ready for anything, whether it’s a bright outdoor ceremony or a low-lit dance floor. Mastering lighting can take your photos from “nice” to “wow!”
#8: Choose the Right Camera Settings
You need to know this – there’s no one-size-fits-all for camera settings at a wedding. You’ve got to adapt on the fly.
Outdoor ceremony? A wide aperture and lower ISO work wonders for capturing that natural light. Dimly lit reception? Crank up the ISO, but not so much that you lose clarity.
Always shoot in RAW. It gives you the flexibility to adjust exposure, colours, and other details during editing without compromising quality. And don’t forget to test your settings before the action starts – you don’t want to be fiddling with your camera during the first kiss!
#9: Take Plenty of Group Portraits
Group portraits might not seem as exciting as candid moments, but they’re a big deal to the couple and their families. These are the shots that end up framed on walls or shared with relatives who couldn’t attend. Make sure you have a system to organise everyone efficiently.
Start with the largest groups and work your way down to smaller, more intimate ones. Keep it fun – encourage smiles and natural poses. And don’t rush! These are some of the most cherished photos, so take your time to get them just right.
#10: Photograph the Memorable Moments
Weddings are full of little moments that mean everything. Sure, you’ll capture the big ones – the first kiss, the first dance – but it’s the in-between moments that truly tell the story. A tearful hug between the bride and her mum, a laugh shared between the groomsmen, or a flower girl spinning on the dance floor – these are the moments that stick with people.
Stay alert and ready to shoot at all times. The best moments often happen when no one’s paying attention to the camera. Being prepared to capture those fleeting memories is what sets great wedding photography apart from the rest.
#11: Shoot the Small Details
Weddings are all about the little things. From the intricate lace on the bride’s gown to the carefully chosen centrepieces, every detail tells part of the couple’s story. Don’t overlook these moments –they’re what make the day unique.
Photograph the rings, bouquets, table settings, stationery, and even the shoes! These details might seem small, but they’re a big deal to the couple, who’ve likely spent months choosing them. Close-up shots of these elements add depth to the wedding album and help complete the story of the day.
#12: Get Familiar with Wedding Traditions
Understanding wedding traditions can give you a deeper appreciation for the moments you’re capturing. Every culture, religion, and family has unique customs that hold special meaning. Whether it’s a unity candle, the breaking of a glass, or a traditional dance, these moments are rich with emotion and symbolism.
Take the time to chat with the couple beforehand and learn about any traditions they’re including.
Knowing the significance of these events allows you to be in the right place at the right time, ready to capture not just the action but the emotion behind it. It’s these heartfelt moments that make wedding photography so meaningful!
#13: Prepare for Severe Weather
Rain on a wedding day? Wind that threatens to mess up hair and décor? It happens, but as a pro, you’ve got to be ready. Pack weather-friendly gear like plastic covers for your camera, umbrellas for the couple, and a willingness to get creative.
Rainy days can actually make for stunning photos – think romantic shots under umbrellas or reflections in puddles. Cloudy skies? Perfect for soft, diffused lighting.
No matter the weather, a positive attitude and quick thinking can turn a potential disaster into a magical moment the couple will love.
Bonus Tip – Don’t Worry Too Much
Here’s the truth: no wedding is perfect, and that’s okay! Couples hire you for your expertise and creativity, not for perfection.
If something doesn’t go as planned, roll with it. Stay calm, and keep the mood light – it helps the couple and guests feel more comfortable around you.
Remember, weddings are about love, joy, and connection, not flawless execution. Capture the smiles, the laughter, and even the imperfections. Often, it’s the unscripted moments that end up being the most cherished.
Relax, have fun, and let your passion for photography shine through!
Following a Post-Wedding Timeline
As a Lancashire wedding photographer, I can’t stress enough how important it is to have a post-wedding timeline in place. The day may be over, but your job isn’t finished yet! The way you handle the post-production process is just as crucial as the shoot itself.
Having a clear plan ensures you deliver a stunning gallery on time, keeps you organised, and helps avoid unnecessary stress. Here’s how to make the post-wedding timeline work for you:
Make Backups of All Images
First things first – back up everything! You don’t want to get halfway through editing and realise you’ve lost a batch of photos. Trust me, it’s happened, and it’s a nightmare.
After every wedding shoot, I always make at least two copies of the images – one on an external hard drive and another in the cloud. This is your insurance policy, ensuring that nothing gets lost in the shuffle. It’s a small step that gives you peace of mind and protects all that hard work you’ve put into your wedding photography.
Cull Photos Quickly
Once the wedding is over and you’re back home, it’s time to start culling your photos. Don’t wait too long to do this!
I always recommend starting within a day or two – this way, the memories are fresh in your mind. Go through your images and eliminate the blurry, duplicate, or unflattering shots. Be ruthless, but also keep in mind the moments that matter to the couple.
The quicker you can cull, the faster you can move on to the next steps and get their photos in front of them!
Take Advantage of Presets to Speed Up Editing
Let’s face it – editing can be time-consuming. But that’s where presets come in handy! As a wedding photographer, you need to learn how to develop and use your own editing presets to speed up the process.
These settings give your images a consistent, polished look and save you hours of manual adjustments. Whether you’re editing a wedding in Lancashire or anywhere else, using presets will give your photos that professional touch while helping you work more efficiently.
Post Teasers
The couple is going to be eager to see their photos, so why not build some excitement while you’re editing? Post a few teaser images on your social media or send them a sneak peek.
It keeps the couple excited and engaged, and it’s a great way to generate buzz around your wedding photography. Just make sure you keep it professional – choose one or two stunning shots that represent the essence of the day, not the entire album!
A little teaser goes a long way in keeping your clients happy.
Deliver Photos on Time
Timely delivery is the mark of a true professional. Make sure to set a realistic deadline and stick to it. Communicate with your clients if there are any delays, but aim to surprise them by delivering early whenever possible.
As a Lancashire wedding photographer, I always emphasise the importance of staying organised and meeting deadlines – because nothing beats seeing the couple’s joy when they receive their wedding photos on time!
Final Note
Your work as a Lancashire wedding photographer doesn’t end when the last dance is over. It’s the care and attention you put into every step, from shooting to delivering those final images, that truly sets you apart. With a clear post-wedding timeline, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality, you can ensure your clients have a flawless experience and memories they’ll cherish forever.