Advice on my first Wedding Photography

[biswasg]

I am a keen nature and wildlife photographers. Now, because of my success in this area, I have been requested to take some photographs for a very close relative of mine. While the event will be covered by a professional wedding photographer, I have been asked to take some unusual or family photos. I have no experience in wedding but cannot refuse lending a hand.
I would want to capture expressions and take odd shots not likely to be covered by the professional photographers. I intend to use Canon 5DII and two flash in wireless mode - the 580 EX on the camera as the master and a 430EX II held by someone. What would be the best positioning of these flashes and what ratio.
Any advice will be helpful.
Oh BTW, it is an Indian wedding.

[acura nsx pilot]

First and foremost let the guy who is being paid to do his job get his job done first. I think its OK to get shots he will not be able to cover but show some respect and try to stay low key IMO

[tim]

You can't be discrete with wireless flash and an assistant. Sounds like you'll be competing with the pro. Don't even lift your camera if he's around, people will look at the wrong camera and you'll spoil his photos.

[biswasg]

Dear Acura and Tim,
Your concerns and advice are well taken. In fact they are already on my mind. I do not intend to compete with the Pro, but enjoy the wedding as part of the family, afterall it is my niece's wedding. As I mentioned when the person getting wed wants me to take some pics in addition to the Pro, it is a little difficult to outrightly refuse. Most of my photos are likely to be taken not at the main wedding event but during the side events, the Pro may not be present all the time. And if I take some photos, then I would like to take good ones which can compliment the collection done by the Pro. It is in respect that I sought some advice from those who do it on a regular basis.

[form]

Don't be seen with lightsticks or anything else separate from your camera and a hot-shoe flash mounted on the camera on the main photographer's watch. You are cutting into their business 100% if they are selling prints; furthermore, if your photos come out as good or better than the paid photographer, you are also cutting into the quality perception the b&g will have about their paid photographer, which CAN lead to b&g dissatisfaction that is bad for everyone involved.

[AlexMoPhotography]

Has your close relative told the pro photographer that you will be carrying a professional camera around with off-camera wireless lighting? I think it's very courteous for the client to bring it up to the pro photog so he/she knows what to expect.