First Time Wedding - Prep Time ??

[4mr4do4sho]

I just found out that my sister in law will be getting married in probably a year from now. They mentioned me being the photographer. I am no pro, but have been taking pictures (landscape, family, etc.) for almost two years as a hobby, and have never done any weddings.

So, question to all of those former first time wedding shooters: What did you do to prepare for being a first time wedding photographer? Should I start reading up on books for poses and ideas now? Should I look into gettting more "wedding" friendly lenses and equipment?

Here is what I currently have:

40d
85mm 1.8
28-135mm 3.5-5.6
50mm 1.8
430 EX
Battery grip

Here is a link to some of the things I have done recently:
http://jcalma.zenfolio.com/

Please give me any input because I will need it. Getting nervous already....Thanks everyone.

[shaggymatt]

Having just done my first wedding as a second shooter this past weekend, I'll give what I learned, what has probably been said so many times.


You'll need something like the 70-200 2.8 (IS Preferred).
Probably something wider on the bottom end, 17-55 IS 2.8 is what I used and made a TON of use out of.
Second body
Possibly more flash power (venue depending) & power pack
COMFORTABLE shoes! You WILL be on your feet for almost 12 hours straight.Make connections. Get there early, build a great rapport with the bridal party. Sorry but the guys won't get you as much. The girls are where its at. Sticking close to them, you'll learn the key players if you don't already know all of them. Grandparents are sometimes too sickly to make it to the rehearsals and all that, so you need to figure out who they are early.

The primary shooter I was with didn't have a second body. It was invaluable being able to switch between my 70-200 and the 17-55 by just switching cameras.

Positioning of yourself for the services. We started shooting from opposite sides of the service. I later moved to the back, which was key. He didn't have a good angle for the first kiss, and there was no announcement that it was coming. Thankfully I was dead center in the back of the church with the 70-200 and nailed it.

Don't rely solely on the flash in the church. Meter properly. Flash won't recycle fast enough for the bridal party aisle walk. You've basically got one chance if you rely on the flash for that shot.

So.. try to have someone else there with you! We complimented each other well. He was great at posing, and I saw a lot of the artistic shots.

The connections I made early, made me feel really comfortable. I had a GREAT time shooting the wedding, and didn't feel the least bit nervous.

[shaggymatt]

Oh and look at the pictures here. It'll start you thinking about creative shots, what you think works and doesn't.

[KSG Photography]

I find the 28-135 IS is ideal for about 80% of the wedding shots, something a bit wider if shooting inside the brides car or large groups in a small space and the 50 1.8 is ideal for details like flowers, cards etc. I'd also recommend carrying a back-up body with you (even if it's borrowed from someone - the last thing you want is your camera packing in on someone's big day - I also carry a G9 just in case - absolute worse case scenario, the backup fails too, the G9 can still use the speedlites)

[4mr4do4sho]

Shaggymatt- Thanks for the info and great advice.


KSG- Im thinking the 28-135 IS would be ideal for better lit areas and if they pick the place I'm thinking they will pick for the wedding and reception, it may not suffice.

I find the 28-135 IS is ideal for about 80% of the wedding shots, something a bit wider if shooting inside the brides car or large groups in a small space and the 50 1.8 is ideal for details like flowers, cards etc. I'd also recommend carrying a back-up body with you (even if it's borrowed from someone - the last thing you want is your camera packing in on someone's big day - I also carry a G9 just in case - absolute worse case scenario, the backup fails too, the G9 can still use the speedlites)

I've already started looking for other lenses and I'm thinking about the 24-70mm L 2.8 as a replacement for the 28-135. And if budget allows which it probably won't (wife) the 70-200mm L 2.8.

[shaggymatt]

Can't stress the backup body enough. BOTH of us, had our cameras "freeze" on us during the event. Autofocus still worked, but it wouldn't fire off the shot. Removing the batteries from the grips solved the problem. In his case, it was during the ceremony, but I got his shots. Mine was during the reception so it wasn't a big deal.

[KSG Photography]

If budget is a concern, you might consider the Sigma 70-200 2.8 HSM, optically it's almost as good as the Canon but around half the price (obviously, Canon do the IS version too, which would be nice) and you'd be hard pushed to tell the difference on a print.

[alt4852]

I find the 28-135 IS is ideal for about 80% of the wedding shots

i'd say this is arguable since many indoor wedding shots that i've done have been high ISO, wide aperture. you can't always use flash and even f/2.8 sometimes feels limiting. i'd strongly suggest fast glass if you want the flexibility to get the shots that you want.

[shaggymatt]

i'd say this is arguable since many indoor wedding shots that i've done have been high ISO, wide aperture. you can't always use flash and even f/2.8 sometimes feels limiting. i'd strongly suggest fast glass if you want the flexibility to get the shots that you want.

If you don't know your venue, or you plan on doing more in the future, you want the fastest glass as possible. The pastor at the event we just did, said do whatever you want. No restrictions on placement or flashes, you aren't always so lucky. That is exactly why I went with the 2.8 instead of the 4.0 70-200. At the distance of my kiss shot, the flash wouldn't have done much.

My buddy used the 24-70, but he also has a full frame camera.

[pampers37]

hmm 28-135mm i just traded mine away for a 50mm f/1.4 and will be shooting some weddings in the next 6 months for friends/low cost. hmmm.. did i make a mistake?!

[Borbor]

Having just done my first wedding as a second shooter this past weekend, I'll give what I learned, what has probably been said so many times.

You'll need something like the 70-200 2.8 (IS Preferred).
Probably something wider on the bottom end, 17-55 IS 2.8 is what I used and made a TON of use out of.
Second body
Possibly more flash power (venue depending) & power pack
COMFORTABLE shoes! You WILL be on your feet for almost 12 hours straight.Make connections. Get there early, build a great rapport with the bridal party. Sorry but the guys won't get you as much. The girls are where its at. Sticking close to them, you'll learn the key players if you don't already know all of them. Grandparents are sometimes too sickly to make it to the rehearsals and all that, so you need to figure out who they are early.

The primary shooter I was with didn't have a second body. It was invaluable being able to switch between my 70-200 and the 17-55 by just switching cameras.

Positioning of yourself for the services. We started shooting from opposite sides of the service. I later moved to the back, which was key. He didn't have a good angle for the first kiss, and there was no announcement that it was coming. Thankfully I was dead center in the back of the church with the 70-200 and nailed it.

Don't rely solely on the flash in the church. Meter properly. Flash won't recycle fast enough for the bridal party aisle walk. You've basically got one chance if you rely on the flash for that shot.

So.. try to have someone else there with you! We complimented each other well. He was great at posing, and I saw a lot of the artistic shots.

The connections I made early, made me feel really comfortable. I had a GREAT time shooting the wedding, and didn't feel the least bit nervous.

Exact same situation as you, and you pretty much covered what I'd say after my first weekend as a 2nd shooter.

Power pack + 580 is probably a worthwhile rental.
If this is a one time deal, rent the 2.8 or faster if you have to. If you're doing this for free however, then you can decide if that's worthwhile.

[booboo]

a second body is a must!!! On my friends wedding - not the photog... I lost the battery on my 40D halfway the reception and good thing I have my XT in the bag and it saved the day

with the lens you have - 85 1.8 and 50 1.8 is good but I would suggest a super wide for group shots like a 10-22 EFS... I would use the 50 1.8 on artistic shots like flowers etc

if it allows the suggestion above... the 17-55 2.8 IS and the 70-200 2.8 IS mounted on both bodies for better control and no changing of lens

[tim]

Lots of advice for beginners no the wedding faq (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=255604).

Oh and look at the pictures here. It'll start you thinking about creative shots, what you think works and doesn't.

Aim higher, POTN has mostly beginners. Look at the list of inspirational wedding photographers, it's around here somewhere.

If budget is a concern, you might consider the Sigma 70-200 2.8 HSM, optically it's almost as good as the Canon but around half the price (obviously, Canon do the IS version too, which would be nice) and you'd be hard pushed to tell the difference on a print.

Non-IS 70-200 lenses are only really useful outdoors. I'd probably have the 70-200 F2.8 IS or nothing. I'd just get the 17-55 and stand closer.

[Mike]

Have a read through Tim's FAQ in the post above and also have a look through the links here: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showpost.php?p=5999915&postcount=2

The 3 zooms I have cover all focal lengths I need for weddings at the speeds I need. The prime lens I have is great for very low light and creative dof shots. Your gear list needs an extra body added to it and something wider than 28mm will be useful to you.
I agree with Tim that IS is a must have on a 70-200 2.8 lens. If you get any 70-200 non IS you'll probably struggle with it in low light (and there's always a lot of low light at weddings).

Also, lots of memory and batteries are a must.

[shaggymatt]

The 85 1.8 was actually pretty useful for some distant candid shots. I used that for about 15 minutes while people were dancing.

Used the 100 for the guest book shots with flowers around it, nice tight shot. And something that I wished I hadn't wasted time on was... the invitation with the 100 at the ceremony. Next time, grab one and take it to do that shot later. It isn't a time sensitive shot, and I only put the 100 on for that shot. Not that I missed anything, but not worth the time on site.

I never took my nifty fifty out of the bag.

Oh... and don't forget about renting options. You have a rather expensive list of items to add. You could find a second shooter that might have a more diverse range of gear that you could share as well. Use the wanted forum here as an option.. always people looking to build experience.

Michael commented on the memory and batteries. I didn't use as much battery as I thought I would, of course it never hurts to have extra. In regards to the memory. You're capturing a very important event. Stay away from the $20 8gb cards! I recently had a Ridata card have some bad captures, so I replaced it with all Sandisk media during that promotion.

[egordon99]

Tagging along with Matt's post, here's where each of my lenses was used -
17-85 - Group formals, walking down the aisle, overall candids at cocktail hour
85 - All the bride/groom formals, natural light candids at reception while waiting for my flash to cool down, some candids of wedding party in between group shots
70-200 - ceremony, closeups at reception, some candids during cocktail hour
10-20 - AWESOME for covering the dancing
30 - Pretty much only during reception while waiting for flash to cool down (like I did with my 85)
100-400L - Stayed at home ;)

[4mr4do4sho]

Thanks everyone for the info!!

Im putting an equipment list together. Looking at the posts here and reading other threads I'm seeing a lot of people who prefer the 17-55 IS over the 28-70mm L. Im stuck between these two. It's pretty much a given that I need to get the 70-200L 2.8 IS (I had the 70-200 f4 before and loved it). Extra batteries etc, also a must.

I am going to a wedding this Saturday and probably will take some shots to get the feel, but also doing alot of observing of the hired photographers.

[shaggymatt]

Don't forget though to look at what people are shooting on. The 28-135 on your 40D with a 1.6 conversion factor is like a 45-216. So someone who likes the 28-135 might be using a full frame camera...

You will need something wider!

[stathunter]

You have a ton of time to prepare. Practice different styles and techniques -- move quick anticipate what will happen.
Don't use any thing about 2.8 for a lens------ trust me throughout the years I have had them all. Weddings are fast and low light--- and receptions are totally dark and fast moving--- a nightmare for glass.

[elysium]

I just found out that my sister in law will be getting married in probably a year from now. They mentioned me being the photographer. I am no pro, but have been taking pictures (landscape, family, etc.) for almost two years as a hobby, and have never done any weddings.

So, question to all of those former first time wedding shooters: What did you do to prepare for being a first time wedding photographer? Should I start reading up on books for poses and ideas now? Should I look into gettting more "wedding" friendly lenses and equipment?

Here is what I currently have:

40d
85mm 1.8
28-135mm 3.5-5.6
50mm 1.8
430 EX
Battery grip

Here is a link to some of the things I have done recently:
http://jcalma.zenfolio.com/

Please give me any input because I will need it. Getting nervous already....Thanks everyone.
Looking at the list, consider something a bit wider also. Maybe a Tamron 17-50 2.8 or a wide prime.

The 28-135 might be a bit too slow for indoors. Though it may have its uses. As preperation, loads of memory cards, business cards and something to constantly back the photos up onto.

For preperation, I sat down with the bride and groom and ran through the even from start to finish so I knew exactly the run down for the day. Where they were and at what time. Kept post-its handy and tore them off as the day went on. REMEMBER : Make sure you have a written contract just in case you get into complications later. Trust me, it happens.

Also, I visited the venue and saw what I would be working with, this is the ideal time to ask questions about the ceremony, and if they have adjustable lighting, take some test shots and see the results.

The 40D will be more than capable. Remember to format cards before use and back them onto a laptop as soon as they are full. Using an assistant to do this will ensure you do not miss anything. Also give your business cards to your assistant who also would be shooting to cover as much as possible. This will try and keep you free to work as you need to.

Keep extra batteries handy for your camera and flash because you will need them. Most wedding photographers I have seen (others may not agree) tend to use a flash with a power port such as a 580EX II to use with a CP-E4 for example.

Apart from that, have fun and good luck. :)

[4mr4do4sho]

Okay need input again.

It will be my first wedding shoot and also bridal shoot.

For those of you who did bridal shoots, did you end up needing extra lighting sources. My bride will most likely want to have her shoot outside. I went and practiced yesterday (about 1 1/2 hours of sunlight left) and lighting just didn't seem to be right on the subject. So i have been looking at several lighting kits and reading about different setups. Some have told me to look into the impact kit.

So, what kind of lighting system did you have/purchase when you did your first wedding/bridal shoot? I need something that will be easily portable for outdoor shoots.

[4mr4do4sho]

Another couple general polling questions for every wedding photographer on POTN.

1) How did you first get involved with wedding photography?

2) Before your own first wedding shoot, did you tag along with other photographers in previous weddings to get some experience or did you dive right in?

3) As a general question, did you ever take photography classes or read books about photography? If not, what was your method of learning about photography.

Any input is appreciated. Thanks.

[tim]

1) Friend of a friend.
2) Nope.
3) Books (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=242640), forums, practice.

[moeronn]

1. So far I haven't officially shot a wedding, but have brought my camera to two weddings this year. I was in the first wedding and a guest at the second.

2. As stated, just started shooting as a guest - doing my best to stay out of the way of the hired shooters.

3. Forums and practice mostly. Some chatting with other shooters. Need to do some more reading.

[tim]

So far I haven't officially shot a wedding...

Then why are you answering a question asked of wedding photographers?

[FocalPrincess]

Take twice as much memory as you think you might need, and twice as many batteries as you think you might need. Since you have some time, make sure you communicate with the bride and groom a lot, make sure you're familiar with their personalities, and make sure that they're familiar with shortcomings that you feel you have.

Read, read, read on things to do, things to avoid and if you're able, practice shooting in a fast moving environment, even if its not a wedding. You'll learn the pace you'll need to keep and it'll help you hone your skills.

Good luck!

[shaggymatt]

Read, read, read on things to do, things to avoid and if you're able, practice shooting in a fast moving environment, even if its not a wedding. You'll learn the pace you'll need to keep and it'll help you hone your skills.

Good luck!

1. 2nd shooting with friend
2. Yes/see above
3. Yes. Classes, books, forums, PRACTICE. And don't forget posing! A lot more than saying line up here.

(even following a local person!) - This is another point that can't be reiterated enough. You can't control the speed of the service, so you need to be ready for the speed that it comes at you - which is intimidating if you've never done it before. If they have a program, make sure you know what is coming next, and where you need to be to get the shot, especially if you are shooting solo.

You know what I find to be great practice, is being my dimly lit basement, chasing my 17 month old around. Sometimes he is closer to the compact fluorescent light, sometimes he is on the other side where it is pretty dark. And then I can change the lighting situations to overhead halogens or in ceiling regular fluorescent. Trust me, he never stops moving.

[moeronn]

Then why are you answering a question asked of wedding photographers?Because he asked how you got started and I'm getting started :D

[Kissa]

I would hold an engagment session with them so you can feel how they are with the camera and learn the angles that look good or not.... its also practice for you on how to work with them and what they do and don't like :)

GOOD LUCK

[4mr4do4sho]

I know them quite well, 6 years. I do plan on doing their engagement session and getting a feel for their style and also throwing in practice with poses.

I've even convinced my wife and her best friend to practice posing in their wedding dresses. They are looking forward to that.:D


I would hold an engagment session with them so you can feel how they are with the camera and learn the angles that look good or not.... its also practice for you on how to work with them and what they do and don't like :)

GOOD LUCK

[4mr4do4sho]

You are absolutely right on the speed and movement of people. I took some pictures at a wedding this past weekend and the up the aisle shots were challenging. The ring bearer and flower girl moved so fast. I didn't get very good success on the bridal party walking the aisles either. People were walking towards me and when I focused they moved and I would try to refocus and before I knew it they were passing me....sheesh. Well, practice makes perfect I guess.


1. 2nd shooting with friend
2. Yes/see above
3. Yes. Classes, books, forums, PRACTICE. And don't forget posing! A lot more than saying line up here.

(even following a local person!) - This is another point that can't be reiterated enough. You can't control the speed of the service, so you need to be ready for the speed that it comes at you - which is intimidating if you've never done it before. If they have a program, make sure you know what is coming next, and where you need to be to get the shot, especially if you are shooting solo.

You know what I find to be great practice, is being my dimly lit basement, chasing my 17 month old around. Sometimes he is closer to the compact fluorescent light, sometimes he is on the other side where it is pretty dark. And then I can change the lighting situations to overhead halogens or in ceiling regular fluorescent. Trust me, he never stops moving.

[cchooks]

I find the 28-135 IS is ideal for about 80% of the wedding shots, )

Man I have one of those and I am so disappointed in it. It isn't as sharp, but once I switched off the IS, I found it more consistantly sharp. Is this the case, or should I send mine back?