has anyone told you as the photographer what to wear for a wedding shoot? [Archive]

tim

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 08:27

I've had requests for styles of clothing - especially formal or especially casual - but i've never been asked to wear a skirt ;) Perhaps you should talk directly with the customer.

song4themoon

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 08:31

I have been asked for one wedding to wear a black skirt. It is a greek wedding and the church rules require the every woman in the altar area wear a black skirt. As the photographer I will be in that area so they require me to wear a black skirt as well.

I dont feel its bull and I respect it. Even if it wasnt for the churtch rules and only the couples wishes... they are the boss and they can expect a certain dress code... I respect and even expect that.

verty

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 08:33

...

song4themoon

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 08:35

lol verty, I understand but I guess you will have to get used to it. You will always have clients request a certain outfit and especially if it comes to international weddings...
Different cultures have different rules... as the photographer we have to respect them, like it or not :)

verty

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 08:37

...

SR071

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 08:41

Verty - do you know of ANY religion which is not sexist?

Just accept it as a tradition like the wedding itself.

When in Rome......use Roman numerals.

i can understand you must look respectable and professional..
but i still think it is wrong.
oh well this is the joy of life, people always have different opinions..

Thanks for your feedback tho, its been helpful

song4themoon

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 08:44

lol, hey at least this religion LETS you wear a skirt ... hehe

verty

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 08:45

...

Stooge_UK

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 08:51

Respect for people culture/religon is important. Not just dress but when and where you can take photos during the cermony for instance...

Customers pay the bills so if they want some thing special (dress/special shots) take it into account and if necessary or warranted charge them acorrdingly.

If I was shooting more weddings it would be soemthing I would have on my list of questions to ask them before the day, dress and any special photo requests...

Just my thoughts...

Stu

tim

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 08:54

I think you should repect the request, if you can't deal with it then don't take the job.

PIXI_666

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 09:18

true you should respect the request but in saying that i wear pants or capri's to weddings because if i wear a skirt how the hell do i get on the ground - unless i want to flash everyone!!!! So i understand your position and i also think its a little bit silly requesting the photographer what to wear...but id say grin n bear it - it sucks i know being female i understand! Wear some bikepants underneath your skirt and if you flash then its their problem LOL

Del

cmM

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 09:38

Not uncommon at all. You can't really blame the clients for doing that, if I put myself in their position i wouldn't want a wedding photographer to show up at my wedding in shorts and sandals while everyone else is in suits... and unfortunately there are some who would. I've had clients even tell me what colors to wear lol.

song4themoon

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 10:06

Del, I always wear pant suits for that very same reason :) But if they request a skirt then I have no problem with it... am just a little more limited in how I move.. but hey, somehow its all possible.. maybe not comfortable but possible..lol

staciecd

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 10:11

Maybe you could wear a skirt for the ceremony and ask to change to pants for the reception to get better shots and move around more easily?

Stacie

SuzyView

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 10:13

I wear anything from size 10-16. Do you want me to send you a couple of black skirts? I have about 10. I get requests all the time to dress formal for many events I take. This Friday I am shooting at a museum, they don't have a dress code, but I assume it is semi-formal. I will be wearing a dress or nice blouse with skirt. I prefer to wear pants, too as I think it's much more comfortable and hey, men can wear black pants, why can't I? But as a professional you must present yourself as someone who can blend in and not be the focus of the shoot. That's just how I see it. If everyone remembers the photographer and not the B&G, I didn't do my job.

NGrinerPhoto

8th of May 2006 (Mon), 11:18

i always ask. it's a question that's in my sequence of events. i don't want to be "that guy" not wearing a tux for a black tie event or a suit when it's hawaiian shirts and linen pants.

rlhphotos

9th of May 2006 (Tue), 10:03

Wearing a skirt is probably tough, but if you want the job wear the skirt.

saravrose

9th of May 2006 (Tue), 10:49

It's about respect. I wouldn't want to be the only woman out of a few hundred that isn't in a skirt.. but it would be difficult to shoot in one.. I've tried, I know. If I were you I'd wear it during the ceremony (at the altar like the greek church stipulates) and then change into a pair of black slacks for the reception... explain to the couple that a skirt really inhibites the way you move around to get there priceless memories caught on film.. But, if they don't want you to change either turn the job down, or smile and say no problem, it's your day, your money and your decision.. But, I would wear a pair of shorts under my skirt.. I could just about guarantee that your going to try to get an angle for a shot that a skirt isn't going to accomodate you on...

sari

SuzyView

9th of May 2006 (Tue), 15:51

Shirts under the skirt. That's great, Sari. Reminds me, I just bought my first black slip. For years I've wore white slips with black skirts. What was I thinking? ;) :)

jfrancho

9th of May 2006 (Tue), 16:06

Asking a paid employee, and "outsider" to respect a cultural rule isn't really that sexist, in my opinion. The employer obviously respects you and your talent enough to hire hire you, you can return that sentiment by respecting their wishes. Ultimately, if you cannot get over it, then you are compelled to decline the job offer. I work for a company that requires attire that is far more formal than the customer's dress code (we work in their facility) but I accept and honor that code. Just curious, would do you refuse to shoot Catholic weddings due to their rules governing a woman's role in the clergy? What about a Morman wedding? Ultimately, it's the employers' requirements, and it's you're desicion to accept those requirements or turn down the job.

Bruce Hamilton

9th of May 2006 (Tue), 16:38

I am shooting with a friend and he told me this is what the client is requesting.

You're shooting with a friend, and his client has requested that you wear a skirt? Sounds to me like your friend wants to see you in a skirt, not the client.

chell

9th of May 2006 (Tue), 16:44

I always have this problem when I do a wedding. Dont want to wear black, practical yet morbid. Can't wear light colours, they get dirty too quickly when I'm on the deck. This time I opted for capri pants under my little sixties polks dot dress, the bride and groom both said I looked funky and I didn't flash anyone! Jobs a good un! Ha ha!

Jaymz

9th of May 2006 (Tue), 18:02

Personally I wouldn't do anything, for money, that compromises my morals or values. Money just isn't worth it for me. Not saying the choice between pants or a skirt is an issue for me, I think I would draw way too much attention if I was in a skirt, I don't have the legs for it. :lol:

But then again I don't think I'll ever shoot weddings.

98photo

10th of May 2006 (Wed), 15:39

Wear a skort! = )

dp99

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 07:07

Just a bit of a different perspective - I wear only long skirts due to religious convictions. I've shot in some pretty bizarre places, from some unusual angles, and not flashed anyone yet ;)

(And I've been a photographer for 7 years :) And yes, one can ski, ride horseback, and ATV in a dress *giggle*)

neil_r

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 07:16

yeah its actually a greek wedding

i do respect the client wishes however in this day and age to request a skirt is abit uncalled for and sexist.

Well if that is your view, and you wish to stick to your principles, dont take the work.

They are the client, they are paying the money, you decide if you want the job or not. end of....

N

SuzyView

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 07:21

I have a job this Friday and I'm unsure what is acceptable, I will e-mail the client to ask. If they say I have to wear a black dress, that would be fine, as long as I can wear my black ankle socks with black sneakers. Black pumps are a no-no for me at shoots. I need to be comfortable. I think there may be a compromise for you, Verty. If not, give the job to someone else. Sexist or not, they are the client.

neil_r

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 07:25

Prhaps we are begining to explore the diferences between a "Job" and a "Hobby"

song4themoon

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 07:26

I think my advantage in this issue is that I first of all enjoy wearing dresses and skirts and second have owned heels ONLY since I was 16 or so. I am so short that my pants will only fit when I wear heels..lol... so I am so used to them that I wear them for EVERYTHING... and yes, also on 8 hour shoots.
But there are a lot of flat comfortable shoes out there that look very nice on skirts so the shoes shouldnt be an issue really I think :)

StealthLude

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 08:00

I think you should repect the request, if you can't deal with it then don't take the job.

Well put Tim, if you dont like their terms, tell them to get another photographer. Not very hard.

I dont see the big deal anyways, if they told me to show up in a skirt i would, Id prolly get more smiles too.

saravrose

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 10:13

If somebody asked me to wear a dress.. For any occasion, just as long as there was a legitimate reason for the request, dress code, religion, formal wear etc.. then no problem... Okay, i'll probably get killed here. Yes it's 2006.. but, were still women. there's no reason to give up feminity to be considered on par with men.. Hell's bell's in this day in age were considered above them in a lot of different venues anyway... the skirt, dress, bra is no longer considered oppressive.. God, sometimes I think of it as the opposite.. a beautiful women in a beautiful dress can be a 'VERY powerful thing... just my two cents.. but, like everybody else said if the idea of a skirt makes you cringe don't take the job..

sari

Steve Parr

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 12:17

i can understand you must look respectable and professional..
but i still think it is wrong.

Of course, you always have the option of not shooting the wedding...

mbze430

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 13:11

Simple answer, yep...and many times

Claire

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 15:32

I'd like to blend in at the wedding. If the couple ask me to wear something for the sake of religion, paying respect to their culture etc, then I'd do it. If they have no particular reason for asking me to wear a skirt specifically instead of a nice trouser outfit, then I'd maybe think twice. There are tons of different type of skirts, if they are to decide the whole design of it as well and I absolutely hate it/have to buy a new outfit just to accomodate them, I'd say no thanks. If I can choose something that at least I'm comfortable with wearing, and is practical, then I'd go along with it.

condyk

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 15:40

In the UK 'pants' for a woman usually mean their knickers :shock: so if a client asked a women photographer not to wear knickers for a wedding then that would be an interesting request which you might have to think hard about. This request is rather easier to comply with!

saravrose

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 15:57

Claire

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 15:58

I can go commando. LMAO As long as I get to wear trousers and not a skirt at the same time... ;)

condyk

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 16:03

I can go commando. LMAO As long as I get to wear trousers and not a skirt at the same time... ;)

I've been a Commando since I was 20 or so and I believe there are cognitive benefits, particularly around free association and lateral thinking ... for the ladies though surely there has to be benefits of a nice breeze up the skirt during Summer months, so long as 'modesty' is maintained of course?

saravrose

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 16:05

I can go commando. LMAO As long as I get to wear trousers and not a skirt at the same time... ;)

okay Nouna... not sure if I should ask, but what does commando mean??

sari

edit- google turned up nothing clothing related...

Claire

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 16:25

Sari, it means not wearing any knickers/panties/boxers/briefs (for the men)...

saravrose

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 16:26

Sari, it means not wearing any knickers/panties/boxers/briefs (for the men)...

:o :o :o .. well okay then... thanks for the info..

sari

Claire

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 16:27

I've been a Commando since I was 20 or so and I believe there are cognitive benefits, particularly around free association and lateral thinking ... for the ladies though surely there has to be benefits of a nice breeze up the skirt during Summer months, so long as 'modesty' is maintained of course?

A man going commando has its benefits...although I keep thinking it shouldn't be very comfy for him! For women...well, I'm far too shy for trying it out with a skirt...you never know when the wind will play a trick on you...:lol: :oops:

saravrose

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 16:31

A man going commando has its benefits...although I keep thinking it shouldn't be very comfy for him! For women...well, I'm far too shy for trying it out with a skirt...you never know when the wind will play a trick on you...:lol: :oops:

my gram always told me to never leave the house without lipstick to cross your ankles not your knees, to never get as drunk as the boys, not to swear in public... but, I can't say she ever commented on wearing underwear.. she did tell me to buy good bra's though.... I guess my education was stinted..:D :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

sari

liza

11th of May 2006 (Thu), 21:48

Go ahead and wear the skirt...and a really, really low cut top. :lol:

(Just kidding, of course.)

islandphoto

12th of May 2006 (Fri), 00:30

It is hard to wear a skirt and get on the ground for those cool angle shots! I would just make sure it was long enough so I wouldn't be flashing anyone. I did shoot a wedding in my dress (my sister in laws wedding), it was fine :)

Paul Gerrard

13th of May 2006 (Sat), 19:27

Generally he that pays the piper calls the tune.

But i do understand for female photographers it could be a little limiting..

Paul

cdifoto

13th of May 2006 (Sat), 19:42

You aren't the primary photographer so it would extremely easy for you to walk out of the deal. If you were the primary and needed to take the job...he who buys my bread gets to choose the brand. :)

Claire

13th of May 2006 (Sat), 21:40

Hm, does that mean all photographers have to have a huge wardrobe?

cdifoto

13th of May 2006 (Sat), 21:49

Hm, does that mean all photographers have to have a huge wardrobe?

If I'm getting a grand or better for a wedding, I can spring for an outfit if need be. If I'm not paid enough I just wouldn't do it. But then again I'm a guy and I wear my clothes more than once. :)

Claire

13th of May 2006 (Sat), 23:26

But then again I'm a guy and I wear my clothes more than once. :)

I resent that comment. :p I wear my clothes plenty of times apart from some I have never worn at all. My mom complains I don't buy new clothes and thinks I'm a weird girl. :lol:

cdifoto

13th of May 2006 (Sat), 23:27

I resent that comment. :p I wear my clothes plenty of times apart from some I have never worn at all. My mom complains I don't buy new clothes and thinks I'm a weird girl. :lol:

You're my kinda chick. My credit card would love you. It already hates me for the camera gear part but hey we could share that and I wouldnt even have to buy you that crap.

Claire

13th of May 2006 (Sat), 23:48

cdi-ink.com,
I could deal with sharing the camera gear, but I'd rather have my own. We might split! :p And your credit card may not love me, I may not be into clothes but I'm into gadgets and jewellery... Now, can you give me your credit card and I'll just go help myself to a couple of L's, a nice diamond ring, new cell phone, LCD TV and stereo. :D

cdifoto

13th of May 2006 (Sat), 23:54

Curtis N

14th of May 2006 (Sun), 00:16

i do respect the client wishes however in this day and age to request a skirt is abit uncalled for and sexist.If you say you respect my wishes in one breath, and describe them as "uncalled for and sexist" in the next, then I'll have a hard time believing the first statement. You have no credibility.

You can either respect and follow your client's wishes, or politely decline the job.

That said, keep in mind that women play cellos wearing skirts. I've seen women milk cows and do all manner of farm work wearing skirts. It wasn't until the last century that ladies wore trousers at all, yet they scrubbed floors and did the rest of the grueling housework. Armies have fought wars wearing kilts. A skirt doesn't need to limit your mobility or compromise your modesty, if it's long enough and roomy enough. Find one with a few pockets for lens caps and CF cards and make it a part of your professional wardrobe.

saravrose

14th of May 2006 (Sun), 01:44

I resent that comment. :p I wear my clothes plenty of times apart from some I have never worn at all. My mom complains I don't buy new clothes and thinks I'm a weird girl. :lol:

i'm with you there Claire. I'd rather buy new glass then a new outfit.. there's just a lot better stuff to spend your money on than clothes that your not going to like anymore in a couple of months..

sari

desheeke

28th of May 2006 (Sun), 17:45

I was asked to wear not only a skirt but to wear a burgundy shirt so I could match the wedding colors.

areyelle

30th of May 2006 (Tue), 16:19

I was told to wear a skirt once... and they paid for it.

johnlo

31st of May 2006 (Wed), 08:08

I dont think any of my clients have ever told me or asked me wat I need to wear. I think as a professional you suppose to be dress professional. I normally wear black pants and either a black or navy polo shirt... as far as you being requested to wear a dress. that's B.S. My partner (assistant) is a female and she only wear pants and a white shirt. as a matter of fact she wears sneakers instead of shoes (black New Balances). she said I have to run around all day... need to be comfortable at all time.

what type of wedding is this anyway?? Unless its Black Tie..