Behind the Scenes: Wedding Photography Tips

Published on January 10, 2024 • 8 min read • Wedding

Wedding photography is one of the most rewarding yet challenging genres of photography. You have one chance to capture irreplaceable moments, and the pressure can be intense. After photographing over 100 weddings, here are the insights and techniques that have served me well.

Pre-Wedding Preparation

Know Your Couple

Before the wedding day, spend time getting to know your couple:

Schedule an engagement session to understand their dynamic
Learn about their personalities and comfort levels with cameras
Discuss their vision and must-have shots
Understand family dynamics and key relationships

Scout the Venue

Visit the ceremony and reception venues beforehand:

Identify the best lighting conditions throughout the day
Plan backup locations for portraits
Understand any photography restrictions
Note power outlet locations for equipment

Essential Gear for Wedding Photography

Camera Bodies

Always bring backup equipment:

Two camera bodies (preferably identical models)
Different focal lengths on each body (e.g., 24-70mm and 70-200mm)
Extra batteries and memory cards

Must-Have Lenses

24-70mm f/2.8: Versatile for ceremonies and receptions
70-200mm f/2.8: Perfect for candid moments and ceremony shots
85mm f/1.4: Beautiful for portraits and detail shots
35mm f/1.4: Great for getting ready shots and environmental portraits

Lighting Equipment

External flash with diffuser
Reflectors for outdoor portraits
LED panels for video work
Light stands and modifiers

Capturing the Key Moments

Getting Ready

These intimate moments set the tone for the day:

Focus on details: dress, shoes, jewelry, bouquet
Capture emotions: nervous laughter, tears of joy, family helping
Use available window light when possible
Be discreet and unobtrusive

The Ceremony

This is where your telephoto lens shines:

Position yourself strategically (discuss with officiant beforehand)
Capture the processional, exchange of vows, rings, and recessional
Don't forget family reactions and emotions
Be prepared for any lighting conditions

Portraits

Make the most of your limited time:

Have a shot list ready but be flexible
Start with large groups and work down to couples
Use natural light whenever possible
Keep groups engaged with clear, confident direction

Reception

The party atmosphere requires different techniques:

Master your flash settings for consistent exposure
Capture first dances, speeches, and candid celebrations
Don't forget vendor details (cake, flowers, table settings)
Stay alert for spontaneous moments

Technical Considerations

Camera Settings

Wedding photography often means challenging lighting:

Ceremony Settings (often low light):

ISO 1600-6400 (depending on your camera's capabilities)
Wide apertures (f/1.4-f/2.8)
Shutter speeds of 1/125s or faster to freeze movement

Reception Settings (mixed lighting):

Use flash with TTL metering
Bounce flash off ceilings when possible
Higher ISO settings (800-3200) for ambient light mixing

White Balance

Venues often have mixed lighting sources:

Set a custom white balance for each location
Consider shooting in RAW for maximum post-processing flexibility
Be aware of color temperature changes throughout the day

Working with People

Building Rapport

Your personality is as important as your technical skills:

Be friendly but professional
Give clear, confident direction during portraits
Anticipate needs and be proactive
Stay calm under pressure

Managing Groups

Large group photos can be chaotic:

Get everyone's attention before giving instructions
Have a plan and communicate it clearly
Work quickly but don't rush the shot
Take multiple frames to ensure everyone's eyes are open

Reading the Room

Develop emotional intelligence:

Recognize when to step back and observe
Know when to intervene and direct
Be sensitive to family dynamics
Capture authentic emotions, not forced smiles

Post-Processing Workflow

Culling and Selection

With 2000+ images per wedding:

Use photo management software (Lightroom, Capture One)
Develop a consistent culling system
Aim for 500-800 final edited images
Include a variety of moments and emotions

Editing Style

Develop a signature look:

Create consistent presets for efficiency
Enhance natural skin tones
Balance highlights and shadows
Consider the venue's aesthetic in your editing choices

Backup and Delivery

Protect Your Work

Wedding photos are irreplaceable:

Use dual card slots during shooting
Back up images immediately after the wedding
Store backups in multiple locations
Have a clear file naming system

Client Delivery

Professional presentation matters:

Deliver a mix of edited images and sneak peeks
Provide multiple resolution options
Include both color and black & white versions
Create a memorable delivery experience

Common Challenges and Solutions

Low Light Situations

Embrace higher ISO settings with good noise reduction
Use fast lenses and wide apertures
Master flash bounce techniques
Consider black and white conversions for grainy images

Difficult Family Dynamics

Stay neutral and professional
Focus on your job, not family politics
Have a designated family contact for group coordination
Be prepared to adapt your timeline

Weather Issues

Always have indoor backup plans
Embrace dramatic weather for unique shots
Protect your equipment with weather covers
Use adverse conditions creatively

Building Your Wedding Photography Business

Portfolio Development

Shoot second photographer positions to build experience
Focus on quality over quantity in your portfolio
Show diversity in venues, seasons, and couple styles
Include detail shots, ceremonies, portraits, and receptions

Client Relationships

Be responsive and professional in all communications
Set clear expectations about deliverables and timelines
Provide excellent customer service
Ask for referrals and reviews

Final Thoughts

Wedding photography is about much more than technical camera skills. It's about being a storyteller, psychologist, director, and artist all rolled into one. The best wedding photographers don't just document events—they capture the emotions, relationships, and fleeting moments that make each wedding unique.

Remember that you're not just taking pictures; you're preserving memories that will be treasured for generations. That responsibility should inspire you to constantly improve your craft and approach each wedding with fresh eyes and renewed passion.

The most important advice I can give is this: be present. Put down your camera occasionally and truly observe the emotions and interactions happening around you. When you understand the story unfolding, you'll be better equipped to capture it authentically.

Have questions about wedding photography? Planning your own wedding and looking for photography tips? Feel free to reach out—I love connecting with fellow photographers and couples planning their special day.