Wedding Photography - Rules Beyond Picture Taking Part 2

Must read for professional photographers or thosethey will get in the way. The photographer should be
who want to learn to be a professional.polite in requesting guests to clear the way so he
In previous article I wrote about some common rulescan get the shots he wants. This would be a good
that wedding photographers should follow. Theytime to enroll the services of the wedding planner or
were.. Be Professional, Be Early, Dress Properly,the person you previously asked to help guide you
Check equipment before arriving, and introduce yourthrough the events. Remember, a rude photographer
self upon arrival.will lose referrals.
Here are some additional rules that weddingDo Not sit down and eat. That is unless you are
photographers should adhere to:invited to do so by an authorized person. Even if you
Know the car routes for the day. The photographerdo, make it quick, because you don't want to miss
should know the routes of the limos in advance. Thesomething happening that you were not expecting.
processions can be delayed for any number ofLimit Socializing and stay away from the bar. Be polite
reasons and then take off suddenly. They generallyto guests and keep it short and sweet. If they are
do not ask if the photographer is ready. It is even ainterested in your services, give them your card or
good idea to drive the routes before the weddingtake their phone number and you can speak with
day especially if the photographer is not familiar withthem longer at a later time. They will understand
the area. You don't want people asking whatstand that you are working. Any trip to the bar
happened to the photographer.should only be for a non alcoholic beverage. You don't
Predetermine best positions to take pictures. Once atwant to be perceived as partying and not working.
the church or reception hall, the photographer shouldLet the Bride and Groom know you are leaving.
make a quick determination of the best positions toWhen things are winding down, check with the bride
get the required shots. This way he can always be inand groom and ask if there are any shots they want
a good spot to get the required shots withoutthat you might not have taken. (there is always that
interfering with any proceedings.shot with Uncle Joe or Nephew Bobby that wasn't
Practice Crowd Control. Sometimes, the weddingtaken) This will show that you did a complete job
party will draw a crowd while they are beingand they won't be disappointed once you have left.
photographed. For instance, after the wedding whenFollowing these rules should make a better day for
the formal photos are being taken. Guests will run toeveryone involved, and also make sure that you
get pictures of the great set ups by thedon't lose any referrals or extra sales because of
photographer. Unfortunately, sometimes in their zeal,your actions during the day.