This year Valentine’s Day falls on a Monday. Not exactly the most romantic day of the week to get married. However, that’s not stopping hundreds of couples from tying the knot on February 14, 2011.
For wedding photographers, February is one of the busiest times of the year. Even if you are not a professional photographer, if you are invited to a Valentine’s Day vow ceremony, you might consider snapping some frame worthy shots of the bride and groom. Here are some tips to get you started:
If the bride or groom has asked you to take photos of their wedding, then be sure to visit the venue prior to February 14th. You’ll want to figure out which angles will produce the best images. What’s more, you’ll want to get a handle on the lighting situation. Take some practice shots at the exact time of day you will be shooting on the wedding day so that you can work through any issues that might pop up. Also, be sure to stock up on batteries, film, memory cards, and other photo gear. Also check your cameras, tripod, and light reflectors.
If the ceremony is taking place in a church or synagogue, make sure you get approval from the priest, minister or rabbi prior to shooting. Some churches ban flash photos, so you’ll want to make other arrangements if you are not allowed to use your flash indoors. However, if you are given the okay to photograph the bride and groom exchanging vows in the church be sure to:
*Check the light level and make adjustments, if possible. Soft, diffused, natural light should be your first option.
*Take reaction shots, such as the groom’s face when the bride appears.
*Use your zoom instead of crawling up to the altar when the couple exchanges rings and when they kiss.
*Don’t forget the rest of the wedding party. Snap shots of the flower girl and ring bearer as they walk down the aisle. Also, get a few pictures of the priest, musicians, and guests throughout the ceremony.
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