June 11, 2019

Professional Wedding Photography Guide with Scott Johnson, The Edge Photography

Wedding season is in full swing, so we wanted to share our top tips with you, as chosen by Scott Johnson, on how to tick off a professional wedding day shoot.

Wedding masterclass

© Scott Johnson, The Edge Photography

So, let’s get started…

Get to know the couple and their personalities before the big day. You’ll then be able to bring them out in the photos you take. Be sure to set their expectations.
Create a master schedule - arrange a pre-wedding meeting with the bride and groom to plan out a schedule of the wedding shoot. If you aren’t experienced shooting weddings, plan for extra time so you won’t be rushed or distracted by the time pressures.
Prep your equipment - cameras, lenses, flashes, reflectors, ColorChecker and most definitely, memory cards and spare batteries! Be sure to test everything too.
Be connected - get to know the wedding coordinator, the venue, best man, maid of honour, the bridal party and groomsmen for key shots. Make sure you write a list of the important people involved in the big day.
Have help - an assistant will help you to keep track of your shot list, schedule and managing the individuals for large group photos.
Research - look at some wedding magazines and websites and get inspired!
Make a shot list - besides what the couple want, have some different shots up your sleeve, but keep focused on priority shots.
Scout out locations - arrive early and have a flow plan for your shoot and both you and your clients will stay relaxed through the day.
Turn off the sound on your camera - beeps during speeches, the kiss and vows don’t add to the event. Switch off sound beforehand and keep it off!
Calibrate - getting those special moments captured just right is so important, and ensuring correct colour is part of that. Using a ColorChecker Passport enables you to custom profile and let those colourful moments shine through in post – a must for the professional prints.
Shoot the small details - photograph rings, backs of dresses, shoes, flowers, table settings, menus etc to capture memorable moments that could easily be forgotten through the main events of the day.
Game face - no matter the pressure, try your best to look in control!
But don't forget to enjoy it! This'll then come out through the shots that you take, resulting in a very happy couple and potential future clients.